If you’re considering the switch to renewable heating, you may be wondering whether an air source heat pump installation means ripping out your entire current system. The good news? It doesn’t have to.
Whether you’ve got a modern combi boiler, underfloor heating, traditional radiators or even solar thermal panels, integrating an air source heat pump into your existing setup is often simpler and more beneficial than people expect.
At WarmVent, we specialise in making that transition seamless. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Integrate Instead of Replace?
Fully replacing your existing system can be expensive, disruptive, and unnecessary. Many homeowners are choosing to supplement their current heating systems with an air source heat pump, rather than ditching everything.
By integrating the two, you gain:
– Lower running costs: Let the heat pump handle most of the day-to-day heating at a fraction of the cost.
– Energy efficiency: Reduce reliance on fossil fuels without compromising comfort.
– Flexibility: Use the most efficient system for the task – such as using the boiler for rapid water heating and the pump for ambient home warmth.
This hybrid approach often delivers the best of both worlds.
Is Your Existing System Compatible?
Most modern UK homes can integrate an air source heat pump installation with little hassle. Here’s how various setups typically fare:
Radiators
Radiators can work well with air source heat pumps, especially if they’re already oversized or you have good insulation. Heat pumps deliver warmth at a lower flow temperature than boilers, so some homes may need a few radiators upgraded to ensure effective heating in larger rooms. Don’t worry – we assess all of this during your survey.
Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating is a dream match for heat pumps. Since it runs efficiently at lower temperatures, you’ll be maximising the heat pump’s potential from day one.
Hot Water Cylinders
If you have a hot water cylinder, it may be compatible with a heat pump system or can be replaced with one that is. A well-integrated cylinder setup allows the pump to supply both heating and hot water efficiently.
Combi Boilers
Combi boilers don’t use hot water cylinders, which means a bit more adaptation is needed. But they can still work well in hybrid systems, particularly where the boiler continues to provide hot water and the heat pump takes over space heating.
Solar Thermal Panels
Heat pumps and solar thermal panels can absolutely work in harmony. Solar panels can pre-heat water or contribute to electrical supply, reducing the load on your air source heat pump and further slashing your bills.
Smart Controls Make All the Difference
One of the most exciting developments in integrated systems is smart control technology. With the right setup, your home can automatically decide whether to run the boiler or the air source heat pump based on:
– Outside temperature
– Time of day
– Energy tariffs (especially with smart meters)
– Hot water demand
That means you won’t need to constantly adjust settings. The system does the thinking for you – ensuring efficiency, comfort, and cost-effectiveness all year round.
At WarmVent, we install systems that are future-ready and can integrate with smart home platforms like Google Nest, Hive, or manufacturer-specific apps.
How the Integration Process Works
Here’s a step-by-step look at what to expect when integrating an air source heat pump installation with your current setup:
- Home Survey and Heat Loss Assessment
We’ll begin with a thorough home survey to calculate heat loss in each room, check your existing system, and determine where integration makes the most sense. This is the critical foundation for ensuring you get the best results.
- System Design
Based on your current setup, we’ll create a custom integration plan. This might include new pipework, smart controls, and a compatible hot water cylinder. If radiators need upsizing, we’ll advise on the best options for minimal disruption.
- Installation
Our qualified engineers install the air source heat pump, connect it with your existing system, and configure all controls. This usually takes just a few days, and we’ll keep mess and downtime to a minimum.
- Handover and Support
We’ll guide you through how the new hybrid system works and make sure you’re fully confident using it. Ongoing support is available should you have questions or want to tweak performance after using it for a few weeks.
Cost, Savings & Incentives
The cost of integrating an air source heat pump depends on your current system and how much adaptation is needed, but it’s often more affordable than a full replacement. And with rising energy prices, many homeowners see payback in just a few years.
Better still, you may qualify for government incentives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which offers a £7,500 grant toward air source heat pump installation. We can help you check your eligibility and apply.
Real-Life Example
A recent WarmVent customer in Nottingham had a modern gas combi boiler and was keen to reduce carbon footprint while staying cost-conscious. We installed an air source heat pump to handle the bulk of their heating, leaving the boiler in place to handle hot water and occasional top-up heating in winter.
After a few months, their electricity bill rose slightly (as expected) but their gas bill plummeted – and they reported a warmer, more consistent indoor temperature. The best part? They still have full control and flexibility, with no change to their daily habits.
Common Questions
Will it be noisy?
Modern air source heat pumps are surprisingly quiet—comparable to a fridge when installed correctly. At WarmVent, we always position units with neighbours and noise regulations in mind.
Do I need planning permission?
Most installations fall under “permitted development rights”, meaning no planning permission is required. We’ll confirm this as part of your initial survey.
What if I move house?
Having a heat pump and hybrid setup can increase your property value and appeal to eco-conscious buyers. We’ll provide full documentation so new owners can understand and operate the system easily.
Ready to Upgrade?
If you’re looking for a smarter, cleaner, more efficient way to heat your home – without giving up the system you trust – then integrating an air source heat pump is the answer.
At WarmVent, we don’t just sell systems. We design, install, and support integrated solutions tailored to your home, your comfort, and your budget.
Let us help you make the switch, the smart way.
Get started today with a free, no-pressure consultation. Find out how much you could save – and how easy the transition can be. Call WarmVent or Request your free quote online.
