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20th May, 2026

Air Source Heat Pumps: Your Guide

What is an air source heat pump and why is it in my home?

Air source heat pumps are becoming part of our standardised specification in Torus Homes to replace a traditional gas boiler to heat your home and provide you with hot water.

This allows you to live in a comfortable, energy efficient home, and allows Torus to get one step closer to achieving net carbon zero by 2045.

How do air source heat pumps work?

Air source heat pumps are often described as a ‘reverse’ refrigerator, taking heat from outside air and converting it into warm energy that heats your home.

How are air source heat pumps different to gas boilers:

  • They operate at lower water temperatures
  • Radiators may feel cooler to the touch than those heated by a gas boiler
  • Your home should still remain warm and comfortable, as the heating system is designed specifically for the property

What are the benefits?

Air source heat pumps offer several advantages:

✅ Energy efficient
Heat pumps can deliver over 3 units of heat for every 1 unit of electricity used.

✅ Lower carbon emissions
They can significantly reduce your home’s carbon footprint compared with gas heating.

✅ Potentially lower running costs
In an energy-efficient home, a heat pump can help reduce heating costs.

✅ Reliable and long-lasting
A well-maintained heat pump can last 15–20 years or more.

✅ Consistent comfort
Heat pumps are designed to maintain a steady, comfortable indoor temperature.

How do I use my Air Source Heat Pump?

Your air source heat pump works best when kept on at a consistent temperature.

Unlike a traditional boiler, it is usually more efficient to leave your system running rather than turning it on and off throughout the day.

Most systems use:

  • Comfort temperature – your normal desired room temperature
  • Set-back temperature – a lower temperature used overnight or when you’re away

For details specific to your system, please refer to your Home User Guide (HUG) provided when you moved in.

Simple ways to keep your heat pump running efficiently

To help your system perform at its best:

  • Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, snow, and debris
  • Do not store items on top of or against the unit
  • Make sure airflow around the unit remains unobstructed
  • Arrange annual servicing to keep the system working efficiently

Good to know: De-icying/Defrost cycle

  • On colder days you may see steam coming from your heat pump, this is normal and called the de-icing cycle.
  • When your heat pump is in de-icing mode, the pump will heat up and clear the ice from the back of the unit.
  • The de-iceing cycle will happen more often when the outside air temperature is around 2.5°C
  • De-icying should last a few minutes.

Frequently asked questions

Why do my radiators feel cooler than normal?

Heat pumps use lower water temperatures than gas boilers, so radiators may not feel as hot but they are designed to keep your home comfortable.

Should I turn my heat pump off when I go out?

Usually no. Heat pumps work most efficiently by maintaining a steady temperature rather than reheating the home from cold.

Is the outdoor unit noisy?

Heat pumps produce some operational sound, similar to an air conditioning unit, but are designed for residential use.

Does it still work in winter?

Yes. Air source heat pumps are designed to operate in cold weather, including typical UK winter conditions.

Need help?

If you have any questions, contact us:

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