Using your Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP)
Some of our homes are fitted with an Air Source Heat Pump. If your home has air source heating, this page will help you use it.
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Using your Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP)
Some of our homes are fitted with an Air Source Heat Pump. If your home has air source heating, this page will help you use it.
An Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) is an efficient, renewable heating system that works “low and slow” to keep your home at a steady, comfortable temperature.
This can feel different from traditional gas central heating, so we’ve put together some simple information to help you get the best from your ASHP.
Understanding the parts of your ASHP
Your ASHP system has two main parts - although yours may look slightly different, depending on the model you have:
1. Outside unit
This unit uses a fan to draw air from outside your home and transfer heat indoors.
Please do not interfere with the outside unit.
2. Hot water cylinder
Located inside your home, this stores the hot water made by the heat pump.
The water is usually around 40°C, which is a safe and comfortable temperature for everyday use.
Looking after your outside unit
Your outside unit needs plenty of space around it to work properly.
- Do not place or lean anything against the unit, as this can block airflow and cause damage.
- Check the area around the unit regularly, especially in autumn and winter, and remove any leaves, dirt, or snow.
- Make sure air can flow freely in and out of the unit at all times.
Keeping the area clear will help your heat pump run efficiently and reduce the risk of problems.
Heating and hot water
- Use the room thermostat on the wall to adjust your heating and hot water.
- Do not change settings on the main controller (usually next to the hot water cylinder), except to set heating or hot water times if needed. These settings should remain as installed.
Your system is set to provide all-day comfort at 19 - 21°C.
If you want to change the temperature:
- Increase or decrease it by 1 - 2 degrees at a time
- Allow time for the change to take effect - heat pumps work slowly and steadily
Do not turn your heating or hot water off completely. If you use a lower temperature at night, keep it within 2 - 3 degrees of your daytime setting.
User guides
- Daikin Altherma
- Ideal
- Vaillant
- Mitsubishi
Troubleshooting - common questions
We hope you don’t have any problems with your heating system, but some issues are easy to fix. If your system isn’t working as expected, check the area around the outside unit is clear. If the problem is serious, please contact us so a trained professional can help.
Why is there steam or smoke coming from the outside unit?
This is normal. It happens during the defrost cycle and helps prevent the system from freezing.
What should I do if I see an error code?
If you see an error code on the indoor or outdoor unit:
- Make a note of the code
- Check your user manual
- If you can’t resolve it, contact us - we may be able to help over the phone or arrange a repair
Why are my pipes noisy?
Air may be trapped in the system.
- Bleed your radiators
- Top up the pressure to the hot water cylinder using the filling loop
If the noise continues, please contact us.
Why aren’t my radiators hot?
This is usually nothing to worry about. Heat pumps work best when they run steadily at a lower temperature.
- Radiators may feel cooler than with gas heating
- They take longer to warm up
- They don’t need to be hot to keep your home comfortable
The system heats the fabric of your home, helping to maintain a steady temperature.
My home feels cold - what should I check first?
If your home feels cold:
- Check your room thermostat for error messages
- If one room is constantly colder, make sure the radiator valve is fully open and bleed the radiator
If the problem continues, please contact us.