If you’re curious about an air to water heat pump and how it works, you’re not alone. This renewable heating technology is becoming increasingly popular in Ireland. It offers both energy efficiency and potential savings on running costs. As a trusted house insurance broker, we provide tips, insights, and guides to help you make informed decisions about your home. Our goal is to help you protect what matters most. 

 

How An Air to Water Heat Pump Works

 

So, how does an air to water heat pump work? In simple terms, an air to water heat pump draws heat from the outside air, even in cooler conditions. The system uses a refrigerant to absorb this heat and compress it to a higher temperature. It then transfers it to water via a heat exchanger. This heated water is then distributed through radiators, underfloor heating, or stored for hot water taps.  

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) offers a detailed Homeowners Guide to Heat Pump Systems. This guide explains the process in more detail and includes diagrams to help visualise how heat is captured and transferred.

 

Design and Components

 

These systems have two main parts:  

• An outdoor unit with the evaporator and compressor. 
• An indoor unit containing the heat exchanger and controls. 

Because they don’t require groundworks, they’re easier to install than ground-source heat pumps. This makes them a common choice for new builds and retrofits. This is one reason why SEAI’s heat pump grants have been so well received by homeowners upgrading their systems. 

 

Air to Water Heap Pump Advantages

 

Some of the biggest air-to-water heat pump advantages include:  

• High efficiency – Often delivering three to four units of heat for every unit of electricity used. 
• Reduced carbon footprint – They run on electricity and use renewable energy from the air. 
• Space saving – No fuel storage needed. 
• Lower running costs – With high efficiency, they can reduce heating bills compared to oil, LPG, or older electric systems, especially in well-insulated homes.

Understanding how an air-to-water heat pump works can help homeowners boost their BER before selling or remortgaging. 

You can find more about eco-friendly home upgrades in the CCPC’s home buying guide. This guide outlines considerations for both buyers and current owners. 

 

Air to Water Heap Pump Disadvantages

 

While appealing, there are some disadvantages to air to water heat pumps to be aware of:  

• Performance in cold weather – Extreme drops in outdoor temperatures can lower efficiency and air to water heat pump temperature output. 
• Upfront cost – Installation can be higher than traditional boiler systems. 
• Running costs in poor insulation – If your home isn’t well insulated, the system has to work harder. 

For a more technical breakdown of efficiency variations by climate, Bord Gáis Energy’s heat pump guide is a useful resource. 

 

Why Temperature Matters 

 

The air to water heat pump temperature output depends heavily on the outdoor air. While they can still operate in freezing conditions, they’ll produce lower water temperatures. This may mean longer heat-up times or the need for larger radiators. This is why insulation and correct sizing are crucial. Proper planning ensures your system delivers consistent warmth, reduces energy waste, and keeps your home comfortable year-round. 

The Department of the Environment provides guidance on improving home insulation - a key factor for getting the most from your heat pump. 

 

Understanding how an air-to-water heat pump works helps you balance its advantages against its disadvantages. When installed correctly in a well-insulated home, it can be a long-term, eco-friendly heating solution. 

For more insights into electricity prices and how they affect home energy costs, check out our blog on the electricity cost calculator in Ireland. 

 

Keep Your Home Warm and Protected 

 

At Insure My House, we believe in safeguarding not just your house, but the life you’ve built inside it. Whether you’ve installed a heat pump or are upgrading other systems, make sure you have the right home insurance cover. Get a fast, competitive quote today!