Many homeowners across Wiltshire are asking, “Are air source heat pumps worth it?” It’s a question we’re hearing more and more from our customers in Trowbridge, Melksham and throughout the county. With energy prices continuing to fluctuate and growing concerns about reducing carbon footprints, it’s no surprise that many local homeowners are considering alternatives to traditional gas and oil boilers.
As a local heating company that’s been serving Wiltshire families for years, we’ve installed numerous heat pump systems across the region. We’ve seen firsthand how they perform in our specific climate, from the frosty winter mornings in Chippenham to the milder days in Frome and Warminster.
How Do Air Source Heat Pumps Work in Our Climate?
Unlike gas boilers that generate heat by burning fuel, air source heat pumps extract warmth from the outside air – even when it feels quite chilly to us. They work like a refrigerator in reverse, using electricity to concentrate this ambient heat and transfer it indoors.
Wiltshire’s climate is actually quite well-suited to heat pumps for several reasons:
- Our moderate winters rarely see extended periods below freezing
- Our humidity levels help heat pumps operate efficiently
- Our average winter temperatures of 4-7°C allow for good performance
We’ve found that modern air source heat pumps can operate effectively down to temperatures of -15°C, though efficiency does decrease in very cold conditions. Thankfully, in Wiltshire, we rarely see such extreme temperatures.
The Financial Equation: Costs vs Savings
When considering if air source heat pumps are worth it, the financial aspect is understandably important. Here’s what our local customers should consider:
Installation Costs
Heat pump installation is more expensive upfront than a traditional boiler. For a typical Wiltshire home, you can expect to pay between £8,000-£14,000 for a full system installation. However, there are often grants available that can significantly reduce this initial outlay.
Running Costs
This is where it gets interesting for Wiltshire homes. Running costs depend on:
- Your home’s insulation quality
- The size and type of property
- Your heating habits
- Electricity tariffs
In well-insulated properties, we’ve seen customers save significantly compared to their old oil boilers. For those switching from gas, the savings are more modest but still present, especially if paired with solar panels.
As we explain in our guide to how heat pumps work in winter, modern systems can achieve efficiency rates of 300-400% in mild conditions, meaning for every unit of electricity used, they produce 3-4 units of heat.
Lifespan and Maintenance
Air source heat pumps typically last 15-20 years with proper maintenance, often outlasting traditional boilers. Annual servicing costs are comparable to boiler maintenance, making the lifetime value proposition quite attractive.
Environmental Benefits
For many of our customers in more environmentally conscious areas like Frome and Bradford-on-Avon, the ecological benefits are equally important. A properly installed heat pump can reduce your household carbon emissions by up to 5 tonnes annually compared to an oil boiler system.
With the UK’s electricity grid increasingly powered by renewables, this environmental advantage will only improve over time.
Are They Suitable for Your Wiltshire Home?
While heat pumps can work in most properties, they’re particularly well-suited to:
- Well-insulated homes (though we can advise on insulation improvements)
- Properties with space for the external unit
- Homes with underfloor heating or larger radiators
- New builds or recently renovated properties
We find they’re especially popular in rural Wiltshire areas without access to mains gas, where homeowners are looking to move away from expensive oil heating.
For period properties, which are abundant across our county, special considerations may be needed but solutions are available.
Real Wiltshire Experience
We’ve installed heat pumps in everything from 17th-century cottages in Lacock to modern eco-homes in Melksham. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding comfort levels. Unlike conventional systems that blast hot air or heat intermittently, heat pumps provide consistent, gentle warmth that many find more comfortable.
Mrs. Jenkins from Westbury told us: “After years of our oil boiler either making the house too hot or too cold, the even temperature from our heat pump has been a revelation. Plus, we’re saving nearly £600 a year on running costs.”
Our Verdict
So, are air source heat pumps worth it in Wiltshire? Based on our experience installing systems across the county, we believe they’re a worthwhile investment for most local homes, particularly if:
- You’re currently using oil, LPG or electric heating
- Your property has reasonable insulation
- You’re planning to stay in your home for 5+ years
- You qualify for available grants
- You value environmental benefits alongside cost savings
Every home is different, however, which is why we always conduct a thorough survey before making specific recommendations. This allows us to provide accurate estimates of both costs and potential savings tailored to your individual circumstances.
If you’re considering making the switch to a more sustainable heating solution, our team of expert heat pump installers would be happy to assess your Wiltshire home. With years of local experience across Trowbridge, Melksham, Westbury, Frome, Warminster and Chippenham, we understand the specific challenges and opportunities of heating properties in our unique climate.
Contact us today on 01225 708 562 or email info@anheating.co.uk to arrange a no-obligation survey and discover if an air source heat pump installation is the right choice for your home.
