A Guide To Air Source Heat Pumps for Business

As the energy crisis continues, we’re seeing more businesses across a wide range of sectors opt for air source heat pumps. But what makes air source heat pumps a better heating alternative in comparison to traditional gas boilers? 

In this guide, you’ll find out everything you need to know about commercial air source heat pumps and its benefits. For a bespoke quote tailored to your business’s needs, fill out our contact form or call 0121 759 7590.

How do commercial air source heat pumps work?

Both domestic and commercial heat pumps take energy from the outside air which is then used to heat a refrigerant, which is then turned into vapour. This vapour is then compressed and squeezed, which raises its temperature. This heat is then released into your home or building, through the heating system.

The only difference between commercial and domestic heat pumps is that commercial heat pumps are designed to work in larger applications and have higher kW outputs. In typical installations, a home would only require one unit, whereas a business may need larger units or more than one unit. 

Air source heat pumps are designed to work in temperatures as low as -20°C degrees, making them suitable for most businesses across the UK. 

What types of businesses benefit from an air source heat pump?

• Retail shops 

• Schools and educational institutions

• Healthcare facilities 

• Offices 

• Restaurants, bars and cafes 

Air source heat pumps can also be used for air conditioning, which is great for the warmer months. 

How much do commercial heat pumps cost?

As the cost of fossil fuels skyrockets, business owners and managers are looking for ways to offset costs and make more sustainable choices. 

Whilst there is an upfront cost for the purchase and installation of air source heat pumps, running them costs much less than traditional boilers, as you’ll only pay for the electricity needed to power the system after you’ve paid for the equipment and installation. 

Equipment and installation prices start at £6,000, but can exceed £20,000 depending on the size of the building and project requirements. 

Tax savings 

There are Government initiatives in place to help businesses offset the cost of installing air source heat pumps.  You may be entitled to 130% capital allowances for expenditure on plant and machinery assets  incurred from 1 April 2021 through to the end of March 2023. Referred to as the “super-deduction”, for every £1 you spend on sustainable plants and machinery, your tax is cut by 25p.

Business owners can also qualify for the 50% first-year allowance (FYA) scheme that covers long-life assets until the end of March 2023. 

The Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) also covers renewable energy solutions and provides 100% relief for plant and machinery investments up to £1 million, until March 2023.

Companies within Freeport tax sites can access Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECA+) until 30 September 2026. 

For every kW of electricity you put in Enula’s heat pump, you get 4kW of energy out.

How much money can commercial air source heat pumps save? 

A study by Energy Savings Trust revealed that businesses can save roughly £3,000 a year with heat pumps, but as energy prices soar, this saving could be bigger. A study by CTCN had shown that fuel cost savings from air source heat pumps exceed 51% annually. 

Commercial air source heat pump considerations 

If you want an air source heat pump for your business, you should think about the following:

• How old is the building? 

• How well insulated is the building? 

• Can you use any of the existing heating system and pipework? 

• How big are the radiators? Will you need new ones?

Domestic air source heat pumps run at lower temperatures (50-55°C) in comparison to boilers (65-80°C). However, Commercial heat pumps can in fact operate at much higher temperatures than residential ones, or utilise equipment to raise a body of water's temperature to similar as that of a boiler

The benefits of commercial air source heat pumps

• Positive brand value and messaging

• Save money on tax and heating bills 

• Heat and cool buildings with ease

• Minimal maintenance 

• Reduced Co2 emissions 

• Aligns with the UK’s Net Zero goals 

Find out more about the benefits of air source heat pumps for your business. 

Our MCS Air source heat pumps require very little maintenance, and are built to run for 25 years with no loss in efficiency. 

When you compare this to gas boilers that have a lifespan of around 15 years and lose 2% of energy every year, the savings on energy (and therefore heating bills) is significant. 

If you have any questions surrounding air source heat pumps, browse our resource centre or get in touch with an engineer today.