If you're considering a heat pump for your home, you're likely wondering which type is best. To help you decide, we'll explore all of the different kinds of heat pumps available, including air, water, ground-source, monobloc, and split heat pumps, so that you can make the most informed choice possible.
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In this guide, you'll discover the benefits and disadvantages of each heat pump type, as well as costs, efficiency levels and which type of home each kind is best suited to.
Air source heat pumps are compatible with the widest range of homes, requiring only access to the outside air, as opposed to large quantities of ground or a nearby body of water like other heat pump types.
Heat pumps extract energy from the air using substances called refrigerants that have very low boiling points.
As air passes through the heat pump, energy is transferred to the refrigerant, causing it to boil and become gas. It’s then compressed to increase the energy and temperature even more, and this energy is then transferred to the water that will flow around the heating system, while the refrigerant cools enough to return to a liquid form for the cycle to begin again.
They are usually over 300% efficient, meaning that their heat energy output is three times the electrical energy input, significantly cutting back on your carbon emissions. Some air-source heat pumps have even greater efficiency, though. Our Logic Air Heat Pump is capable of over 500% efficiency under lab-tested conditions.
In real-life scenarios, efficiency levels do not reach this height but usually remain above 300%, ensuring they are still more efficient than gas boilers.
See our guide comparing heat pumps to gas boilers as well as our guide explaining how heat pumps work in winter and cold weather, to understand more.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, the average air-source heat pump costs £14,000. However, by accessing the government's Boiler Upgrade System, you can reduce this by £7,500. See our guide explaining heat pump costs for more information.
Ground-source heat pumps are less common than air-source heat pumps. They are 350% efficient on average but have a hefty cost of around £28,000, although this can be somewhat mitigated by the £7,500 government boiler upgrade scheme.
Ground-source heat pumps use pipes to draw heat from the ground outside of your home, making them more consistently efficient through the seasons than their air-source counterparts. However, the installation process needed for this is extremely invasive.
The average 3-bed home would need 400 square metres of ground for horizontally laid pipes or boreholes reaching 80-160 metres downward for a vertical system, which makes them unsuitable for many properties.
This type of heat pump is one of the most efficient, reaching up to 600% efficiency due to the fact that heat transfers more easily through water. Water-source heat pumps cost £10,000 on average and are eligible for the same government grant as their air and ground-source counterparts.
Water-source heat pumps absorb heat from nearby bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, streams, mine water, aquifers or the sea. This results in very consistent efficiency levels or SCOP (Seasonal Coefficiency of Performance) as water temperatures are generally stable throughout the year in the UK. However, it does require the home to be near a body of water, meaning that this is not a feasible heat pump choice for many homeowners.
Air-source heat pumps are suitable for the widest range of homes, not needing extensive outdoor space or proximity to a suitable body of water. For a more detailed assessment of your home’s suitability for heat pumps, see our guide, 'Should I Install a Heat Pump in My Home?'.
There are several types of air-source heat pumps, most significantly monobloc and split.
A monobloc air source heat pump consists of a single unit outside your home where the compressor, heat exchanger and other components are stored.
They’re also easier than their split counterparts, as your engineer doesn’t have to be F-Gas qualified to fit it. This is because the F-Gas is contained in a sealed unit, meaning you have a wider range of engineers able to install your monobloc heat pump.
Our Logic Air heat pump is perfect if you decide that monobloc is the air source heat pump type for you.
A split heat pump has both an indoor and outdoor unit, with the refrigerant split between the inside and outside of your home. The outdoor unit collects the heat from the air and the heated gas is sent to the indoor unit to heat your water. Due to the pipework needed to connect the refrigerant loop, split heat pumps are more complicated to install than monobloc versions and are, therefore, more initially expensive.
However, split heat pumps do have a number of benefits. The smaller outdoor unit means that you don’t need to worry as much about having adequate outdoor space, although you will need sufficient indoor space for a hot water cylinder and an indoor unit. The outdoor unit can also be further away from your property, giving you flexibility with your heat pump placement. Both our Alfea Excellia and Alfea Extensa are split pumps.
Hybrid heat pumps - This type is used alongside another heat source, such as a boiler or a different heat pump. The most common type is a combi hybrid, which uses a gas combi boiler with a heat pump. This means you don’t need a hot water cylinder for your heat pump as your combi boiler handles your hot water while your heat pump handles the majority of your indoor heating. The combi boiler can also give your heat pump an additional boost in heating your home on particularly cold days.
Mini-split heat pumps - These are smaller-scale heat pumps that are wall-mounted and used to heat or air condition a single room. They are air-to-air heat pumps that work by transferring heat from the outside air directly into the inside air of your home, like an air conditioner unit.
If you’ve decided a heat pump is the heating solution for you, see our guide to selecting, installing, and setting up a heat pump to get you started and our guide to heat pump servicing to keep it running smoothly.
Choosing the right heat pump system is crucial for thermal comfort, operating costs, and the energy efficiency of a building. The most commonly used solutions are monobloc heat pumps and split systems. Both systems utilize renewable energy sources, making them eco-friendly and cost-effective options for modern homes. Monobloc heat pumps are compact devices where all key components are housed in a single unit. This makes their installation quick and straightforward. Mounted outside the building, they do not take up space indoors, which is a significant advantage, especially in smaller homes. Split systems consist of two units – an outdoor and an indoor one. This design offers greater installation flexibility and can provide better performance in more challenging climatic conditions. Separating the indoor and outdoor units allows for more precise control of operating parameters, which can translate into higher efficiency. When selecting the right system, several key factors should be considered:
The final choice depends on individual needs and the specifics of the building. If simplicity and quick installation are priorities, a monobloc system may be the best solution. However, if precise control and higher efficiency in challenging conditions are key, a split system is worth considering.
Both monobloc and split heat pumps operate on the same principle – they extract heat from the outside air and transfer it to the building's heating system. This solution is not only efficient but also eco-friendly, working well in various climatic conditions. Air-to-water models, in particular, have gained popularity as they provide stable heating year-round. Monobloc heat pumps have the entire refrigeration circuit enclosed in a single unit, simplifying installation and eliminating the need for regular leak checks. This makes them a convenient choice for those who value ease of use. On the other hand, split heat pumps consist of two units – an outdoor and an indoor one – connected by refrigerant lines. Their installation requires F-gas certification, but in return, they offer higher efficiency, especially in colder conditions. The choice between a monobloc and a split system depends on the building's specifics and local climate. Monobloc models are easier to install and do not require frequent maintenance, making them almost maintenance-free. Meanwhile, split systems, due to their separated units, perform better in harsher weather conditions, ensuring higher energy efficiency.
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Monobloc heat pumps stand out for their compact design and easy installation. The entire refrigeration circuit is housed in a single unit, minimizing the risk of refrigerant leaks and eliminating the need for regular leak checks. Additionally, since all noisy components are located in the outdoor unit, this system operates more quietly than split models. One challenge with monobloc heat pumps is the risk of water freezing in the system during prolonged power outages. To prevent this, the following safeguards are used:
It is also worth noting that monobloc heat pumps can be powered by photovoltaic panels, increasing their efficiency and making them more eco-friendly.
Split heat pumps consist of two units – an outdoor and an indoor one – offering greater installation flexibility. This allows for better adaptation to the building's specifics, which is particularly important for more complex architectural layouts. Although their purchase price may be lower than monobloc models, installation costs are higher due to the need for specialized setup. Installing split heat pumps requires F-gas certification, as these systems use refrigerant to transfer thermal energy between the units. As a result, regular leak checks are necessary, which adds to the maintenance requirements. Despite this, split heat pumps can work with photovoltaic installations, reducing operating costs and increasing their eco-friendliness.
Choosing a heat pump is not just about ecology but also finances. When analyzing installation costs and subsequent operating expenses, it is worth considering which system will be more cost-effective in the long run. Monobloc heat pumps, though often more expensive to purchase, have simpler installation, which can reduce overall setup costs. On the other hand, split systems, despite their lower purchase price, require more complex installation, which may increase initial expenses. Equally important are operating costs, including energy consumption, maintenance, and potential repairs. Due to their compact design, monobloc heat pumps may generate lower operating costs, which could offset their higher purchase price over time. Meanwhile, split systems, while potentially more efficient in certain conditions, require regular leak checks and servicing, leading to additional expenses. How does this affect electricity bills? Monobloc heat pumps, thanks to their efficiency, can help reduce electricity costs. Split systems, although they may incur higher maintenance costs, offer greater installation flexibility, which can be crucial for buildings with unconventional structures. The final choice between a monobloc and a split heat pump should consider not only initial and operating costs but also the building's specifics and the users' individual needs. A more expensive but less maintenance-intensive monobloc system is a good solution for those who value convenience. Meanwhile, a more flexible, though maintenance-intensive, split system is ideal where adapting the installation to specific building conditions is key.
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Energy efficiency and heat pump performance are key factors driving their growing popularity in modern construction. One of the most important parameters for evaluating the energy efficiency of these devices is the COP (Coefficient of Performance). It indicates how much thermal energy is obtained relative to the electrical energy consumed, allowing for a precise assessment of the system's efficiency. Monobloc models often exhibit better heating efficiency than split variants. Their compact design minimizes energy losses and optimizes heat transfer, making them more effective in certain climatic conditions. This makes them an attractive choice for those seeking energy-efficient and high-performance solutions. One of the key components influencing the heat pump's performance is the inverter compressor. By dynamically adjusting its power output to the current heat demand, it allows for more efficient energy management. In practice, this means that heat pumps equipped with this technology respond better to changing weather conditions, resulting in higher efficiency and lower operating costs. External temperature significantly impacts the COP. In lower temperatures, its value may decrease, which should be considered when selecting the appropriate heating system. Understanding these relationships allows for better adaptation of the device to specific climatic conditions and building needs. Modern technologies and innovative solutions are continuously improving the energy efficiency of heat pumps, making them even more economical and environmentally friendly.
The COP (Coefficient of Performance) is a key indicator of the energy efficiency of heat pumps. It represents the ratio of thermal energy output to electrical energy input, allowing for an assessment of how effectively the device converts energy. The higher its value, the lower the operating costs and electricity consumption, making the heat pump a more cost-effective solution. Monobloc heat pumps often achieve better heating efficiency than split models. Their design minimizes energy losses and enables more efficient heat transfer, making them more effective in certain climatic conditions. This makes them an attractive option for those seeking energy-efficient heating systems. Modern heat pumps increasingly use inverter compressors, which adjust their power output to the current heat demand. This allows the device to operate more efficiently, responding to changing weather conditions. This solution not only increases energy efficiency but also optimizes operating costs. It is worth noting that the COP is highly dependent on external temperature. In colder conditions, its value may decrease, which should be considered when selecting the appropriate heating system. Awareness of these relationships allows for better adaptation of the heat pump to the specific needs of the building and local climate. Technological advancements in heat pumps are continuously leading to new solutions that enhance their efficiency and reduce operating costs.
When choosing a heat pump, it is worth paying attention to user comfort, which includes noise, safety, and reliability. The differences between monobloc and split systems can significantly impact daily use, so it is important to analyze them thoroughly before making a decision. One of the key factors is the noise level generated by the outdoor unit. Monobloc heat pumps, while quieter indoors, may produce more noise outside, which is particularly relevant in densely built areas. On the other hand, split systems, by locating the noisiest components outside the building, ensure quieter operation indoors – a benefit appreciated by both residents and neighbors. Safety is another important consideration. With monobloc heat pumps, there is a risk of system freezing during prolonged power outages. To prevent this, thermal insulation of pipes is used, which reduces heat loss and protects the system from low temperatures. The reliability of the heating system is crucial for stable operation. Split heat pumps, due to their design, often perform better in harsher climatic conditions. It is also important to consider the quality of components and regular maintenance – factors that can significantly extend the device's lifespan and ensure trouble-free operation. The final choice should take into account both the building's specifics and the users' individual needs. Each of these elements affects daily comfort, so it is worth carefully analyzing all available options.
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Selecting a heating system, such as a heat pump, depends on many factors affecting comfort and efficiency. It is crucial to determine which type of heat pump will work best in a given building and location. The most commonly used solutions are monobloc heat pumps and split systems, which differ in construction and installation methods. An important aspect is the size of the building and its heat demand. The heating system should provide optimal performance and energy efficiency. In larger homes, split systems offer greater installation flexibility, making them easier to adapt to specific architectural requirements. It is also worth considering integrating the heat pump with other systems, such as underfloor heating or photovoltaics (made possible by heat exchangers). Underfloor heating ensures even heat distribution, increasing user comfort. Meanwhile, combining a heat pump with photovoltaic panels allows for the use of renewable energy, reducing operating costs and environmental impact. When choosing the right system, it is also important to consider the availability of indoor and outdoor space. If indoor space is limited, a monobloc heat pump may be a better solution, as all its components are housed in a single outdoor unit. On the other hand, split systems, with their separated units, offer greater installation flexibility and are better suited for buildings with unconventional architecture. The final choice of a heating system should consider both the users' needs and the building's specifics. A well-chosen system ensures not only thermal comfort but also energy savings and long-term efficiency.
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The choice between a monobloc and a split heat pump depends on the building's specifics and the user's expectations. Each system has unique advantages that work well in different conditions. Monobloc heat pumps are compact devices known for their easy installation. The entire system is located outside the building, eliminating the need for indoor space. This is an excellent solution for homes with limited usable space, where every square meter counts. Split heat pumps perform better in harsher climatic conditions. Thanks to their separated outdoor and indoor units, they offer greater installation flexibility and better efficiency in colder regions. This makes them an ideal choice for those living in areas with severe winters, where reliability and system performance are crucial.
The final decision should consider both climatic conditions and preferences regarding installation and maintenance:
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