If your home has an air source heat pump, it provides both heating and hot water. Your system should be set up and running for you.

 

It's best to leave the system running, but if you do need assistance making alterations, you can contact our Home Energy Advice Team on 03000 120 120 or by emailing homeenergyadviceteam@alliancehomes.org.uk.

 

You can look after your heat pump by following the tips on this page. 

 

 

 

 

Heat pump tips

 

Don’t turn it off

Heat pumps are designed to run most efficiently when they’re running continuously. Turning them off means the system works much harder to heat your home again.

 

Keep the outside unit free of obstructions

Clear snow, ice, and debris away from the outdoor unit and maintain at least a 60cm gap around the unit.

 

Avoid big temperature swings

Keep your thermostat between 18°C and 21°C. This range balances comfort and efficiency. Make gradual adjustments, sudden high settings force the system to work harder and less efficiently.

 

Save energy with a setback temperature, not off.

If you’re away, reduce the temperature slightly (e.g. 18°C), but don’t switch the system off. This prevents pipes from freezing and keeps the system running efficiently.

 

Low pressure warning

There’s usually no need to touch the hot water tank or any of the pipes near it. You may get a low-pressure warning, indicating that there’s not enough water in your radiators, in which case you can add more water yourself by following these steps.

 

How to repressurise (top up) an ASHP heating system

1. Find the system pressure gauge

You’ll normally find this on the pipework next to the hot water cylinder, it’s usually a dial that shows ‘bar’ or psi.

2. Find the filling loop

The filling loop is usually near the pressure gauge and is a silver braided hose with two black or blue taps at each end.

 

Image of filling loop showing pipes with black taps and gauge
Filling loop with black taps and gauge

3. Add more water to the system

 

  • Open the bottom tap fully
  • Open the top tap slowly and carefully and watch the pressure rise on the gauge. 
  • Stop when the gauge reaches 1.3 to 1.5bar or 18 to 22psi. Close both taps.

If you find you’re doing this regularly, or if you’re unsure about the process, please contact us.