What is a heat pump and why is it essential today?
Key benefits of air source heat pumps
Air source heat pumps are among the most efficient systems on the market for heating, cooling and domestic hot water.
Lower energy consumption
Air source heat pumps can reduce energy consumption by up to 70% compared to traditional systems like gas boilers or electric heaters.
High energy efficiency
For every 1 kW of electricity consumed, the system generates more than 3 kW of thermal energy — making it one of the most efficient technologies available today.
Clean, renewable energy
Harnesses energy from the outdoor air, cutting CO₂ emissions and contributing to the energy transition.
Complete climate control
Provides heating in winter, cooling in summer and domestic hot water — all from a single system.
Solar compatible
Integrates seamlessly with solar PV installations, cutting energy costs even further.
Quick payback
Thanks to energy savings and available incentives, the investment pays off within a few years.
Types of air source heat pump systems
Below we cover the main families, advantages and differences to help you choose the solution that best fits your project.
Monobloc vs. split air source heat pumps
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Monobloc
The outdoor unit contains all system components, including the hydraulic circuit. The connection to the indoor unit is limited to water pipes and electrical supply. Advantage: simpler installation and lower risk of refrigerant gas leaks inside the home.
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Split
The system consists of an outdoor unit with the compressor and refrigerant circuit, plus an indoor hydraulic unit. Advantage: greater design flexibility and, in some cases, better performance under specific operating conditions.
Choosing equipment based on COP
Choose units with a high COP at the system's actual working temperature (for example, underfloor heating runs at lower temperatures, which improves performance). Check performance curves and certifications.
How to size an air source heat pump installation
Heat load calculation
Before selecting a heat pump, you need to perform a heat load calculation for the building: insulation, orientation, windows, occupancy and usage schedule. This ensures the installed capacity meets demand without oversizing — which lowers cost and improves efficiency.
Choosing equipment based on COP
Choose units with a high COP at the system's actual working temperature (for example, underfloor heating runs at lower temperatures, which improves performance). Check performance curves and certifications.
Compatibility with heat emitters
Air source heat pumps perform best with low-temperature emitters: underfloor heating, fan coils or low-temperature radiators designed for heat pumps. If installed with old radiators, the system may require an oversized unit or supplementary components.
Integration with solar PV and storage
Charging with self-consumption
Pairing an air source heat pump with solar panels lowers the heat pump's electricity consumption. With batteries and smart management, you can prioritise DHW or heating when there's surplus PV generation.
Smart energy management
An optimised control system manages priorities — DHW production, heating, buffer tank charging or battery charging — and makes decisions to minimise energy costs (e.g. using PV power or off-peak tariffs).
Costs, financing and incentives
Maintenance and lifespan
Everything you need to know to keep your installation in top condition and maximise its lifespan.
Annual check of the outdoor unit, circuit pressure, heat exchanger condition and pump control.
Typical lifespan exceeds 15 years with proper maintenance. Warranties vary by manufacturer and component.
Bexie Monobloc: advanced efficiency, simplified installation
Three configurations for every project
Guidance on capacity, performance and installation by client type.
Domestic systems for heating, DHW and electricity-use support, prioritising low noise, aesthetic integration and smart control to maximise self-consumption.
Centralised solutions with heat pumps for heating and DHW, managed through individual meters and zoned control for fair, efficient billing.
Offices, retail and small-scale industry seeking efficient daytime climate control with solar PV integration to cut operating costs.
Air source heat pump FAQs
Yes — modern units maintain performance at low outdoor temperatures, although the COP decreases. In extreme climates, electrical backup or a hybrid system may be required.
For high household consumption, a storage tank is recommended to ensure supply and maximise efficiency. For very low demand, instant systems are available.
It depends on your existing setup. When replacing an oil or gas boiler, energy savings of 40–70% are possible on the final energy used for heating and DHW.
