Air-to-Water Heat Pumps in Kent
An air-to-water heat pump is the most common type for replacing a traditional boiler. It heats water which is then pumped to your radiators, underfloor heating and hot water cylinder — much like your existing central heating system, but far more efficient.
Book a Survey
How an Air-to-Water Heat Pump Works
An air-to-water heat pump takes heat from the outside air and uses it to heat water. That hot water then circulates through your radiators, underfloor heating pipes and hot water cylinder — exactly the same way a gas or oil boiler does.
The key difference is that instead of burning fuel, the heat pump moves existing heat from one place to another using a small amount of electricity. This makes it three to four times more efficient than a boiler.
Because heat pumps work best at lower flow temperatures (typically 35–45°C compared to 60–80°C for a boiler), your radiators may need to be slightly larger to ensure each room heats properly. CPSL Kent checks this during the survey and will advise on any changes needed.
Air-to-water heat pumps also require a hot water cylinder to store your domestic hot water. If you currently have a combi boiler without a cylinder, space will need to be found for one.
Works With Existing Wet Systems
Connects to your existing radiators and pipework in most cases, sometimes with minor upgrades.
Provides Hot Water Too
Heats your domestic hot water via a cylinder — suitable for most household needs.
Grant Eligible
Air-to-water heat pumps are eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant of up to £7,500, subject to survey and scheme rules.
What Happens to Your Existing Heating System?
In many cases, your existing radiators and pipework can stay in place. The heat pump simply replaces the boiler as the heat source. However, because heat pumps operate at lower temperatures, some adjustments may be needed.
Common Considerations
- arrow_forwardRadiators: Some radiators may need to be upgraded to larger ones to deliver enough heat at lower flow temperatures.
- arrow_forwardUnderfloor Heating: If you have underfloor heating, it already runs at low temperatures and works excellently with a heat pump.
- arrow_forwardHot Water Cylinder: You will need a suitably sized hot water cylinder. If you currently have a combi boiler, one will need to be added.
- arrow_forwardInsulation: Better insulated homes get more benefit from a heat pump. We may recommend improvements if heat loss is significant.
Air-to-Water vs Air-to-Air
Air-to-Water
Heats water for radiators and hot water. Replaces your boiler. Eligible for Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant.
Air-to-Air
Heats and cools air directly in the room. Does not provide hot water. Not eligible for BUS grant. Best for individual rooms.
CPSL Kent will explain which type is best suited to your property and heating needs during a survey.
Ready to Replace Your Boiler With a Heat Pump?
Start with a survey. CPSL Kent will check your property, explain the options and provide a clear quotation.