When selecting the Best air source heat pump for Cold Climates in 2024 it is important to remember there is no size fits all when it comes to air source heat pumps. There are many factors to consider such as budget, usability, and efficiency.
Although we have a comprehensive list of heat pumps here, a heat pump installer can find you exactly what you need.
In this article, we dive into the pros and cons of our selection of favorite air source heat pumps in 2024.
Clivet Evo Edge
The EDGE EVO 2.0 – EXC features advanced connectivity via a Smart Home App or Modbus port with Control4 NRG standard. It’s designed for outdoor installation, eliminating the need for an indoor unit. The system performs well in harsh climates and can include auxiliary heaters from 3 to 9 kW. It can simultaneously produce domestic hot water and cooling/heating in its hybrid version and can combine up to 6 units in cascade for capacities up to 180 kW.
Pros | Cons |
A very high-quality budget option quite possibly the best-value heat pump on the market | Max flow temperature of 60C |
Exclusive 10-year warranty available when installed by SL Energy | Hot water sterilization required once a week using an immersion heater |
Quiet operation | Slower recovery times for hot water |
Versatile – Has the ability for hybrid operation, can heat swimming pools, and all system controls wire back to the unit. | Lower efficiency at higher flow temperatures |
R32 refrigerant unit – Less regulation around where the unit can be sited. | Controller operation is not so user-friendly |
High efficiencies at lower flow temperatures when compared to R290 units | Basic heat pump app |
Built-in Wifi as standard | Higher global warming potential (GWP) (657) |
Excellent size range from 4.8-27kW | – |
Monobloc unit – All parts installed within the unit meaning no need for additional internal space | – |
Panasonic Aquarea
Aquarea captures up to 80% of the heat energy required from the ambient air, transferring it to heat water for your home’s heating, domestic hot water, and even cooling needs.
Pros | Cons |
High quality budget option | Max flow temperature of 60C |
Exclusive 10-year warranty available when installed by SL Energy | Hot water sterilization is required once a week using an immersion heater |
Quiet operation | Slower recovery times for hot water |
High-quality budget option | Slower start up procedure |
R32 refrigerant unit – Less regulation around where the unit can be sited. | Lower efficiency at higher flow temperatures when compared to R290 units |
High efficiencies at lower flow temperatures when compared to R290 units | No built in WiFi – an additional item must be purchased for internet connectivity |
Monobloc unit – All parts installed within the unit meaning no need for additional internal space | Higher global warming potential (GWP) (657) |
Samsung Gen7 R290
Samsung Air Source Heat Pumps are an energy-efficient solution that utilizes heat from the ambient air for heating and hot water. By transferring this heat into the home through a hydronic system, like underfloor heating, these heat pumps require less power input and provide greater power output than conventional boilers.
Pros | Cons |
Premium product | Lower efficiency at lower flow temperatures when compared to R230 units |
R290 refrigerant unit gives it the ability to run at higher flow temperatures – up to 75C | No built in WiFi – an additional item must be purchased for internet connectivity |
No need to use an immersion heater for hot water sterilisation | More expensive purchase price |
Fast recovery times for hot water | Additional wiring centre needs to be purchased alongside the unit |
Higher efficiencies at higher flow temperatures compared to R32 units | Lower efficiency at higher flow temperatures when compared to R290 units |
Quiet operation | No built in WiFi – an additional item must be purchased for internet connectivity |
New improved controller and app | – |
Low global warming potential (GWP) (3) | – |
Monobloc unit – All parts installed within the unit meaning no need for additional internal space | – |
Viessmann Vitocal 150-A
The Vitocal 150-A is a modern, compact heat pump designed for efficient heating and cooling. With a flow temperature up to 70°C, it’s ideal for retrofit installations and can potentially work with existing radiators when system design adheres to industry standards. It offers high energy efficiency, app-based control, and sustainable operation, all in an attractive design.
Pros | Cons |
Premium product | Lower efficiency at lower flow temperatures when compared to R230 units |
R290 refrigerant unit gives it the ability to run at higher flow temperatures – up to 75C | No built in WiFi – an additional item must be purchased for internet connectivity |
No need to use an immersion heater for hot water sterilisation | More expensive purchase price |
Fast recovery times for hot water | Hydraulic split system meaning that the heat pump has an indoor unit that houses the system hydraulics and the wiring centre. This means more internal space is often needed however an all on one space saving hydraulic box and cylinder is available |
Faster start up procedure | – |
Higher efficiencies at higher flow temperatures compared to R32 units | – |
Quiet operation | – |
Excellent, user-friendly app | – |
Low global warming potential (GWP) (3 | – |
Vaillant aroTHERM plus
The aroTHERM plus Air Source Heat Pump offers a low-carbon solution for heating and hot water with advanced technology using natural refrigerants to reduce your carbon footprint. It boasts high energy efficiency, making it suitable for both retro-fit and new buildings. The unit is compact, super quiet, and built for outstanding quality and durability. It is also eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Grant in England and Wales.
Pros | Cons |
Premium product | Lower efficiency at lower flow temperatures when compared to R230 units |
R290 refrigerant unit gives it the ability to run at higher flow temperatures – up to 75C | No built in WiFi – an additional item must be purchased for internet connectivity |
No need to use an immersion heater for hot water sterilisation | More expensive purchase price |
Fast recovery times for hot water | Additional wiring centre needs to be purchased alongside the unit |
Faster start up procedure | – |
Higher efficiencies at higher flow temperatures compared to R32 units | – |
Quiet operation | – |
Excellent, user-friendly app | – |
Low global warming potential (GWP) (3 | – |
Conclusion:
As above there is no one size fits all approach when it comes to selecting a heat pump. If you are limited on space for a hot water cylinder you may require faster hot water recovery, heat pumps such as the Vaillant aroTHERM plus may be your best option. Or you might have a tighter budget but you still would like a high quality heat pump, then you may want to look at the Clivet Evo Edge or the Panasonic Aquarea. We have however selected our choice of a budget option, premium option and best all rounder.
Which Heat Pumps Should I Choose?
Best premium option: Viessmann Vitocal-150A
- Excellent premium product
- Great technical assistance
- Excellent user friendly app
- Fast hot water recovery
Best budget option and all rounder: Clivet Evo Edge
- Competitively priced
- Versatile
- Easy to install
- No additional wiring centre required and WiFi comes built in as standard
- No additional space required internally
If you have any doubt at all about selecting the right heat pump for you it is best to consult with a professional installer. Let them know your requirements and they will help you select the right heat pump for your home.
Ronan Sutton is the Director and Co-founder of SL Energy Ltd, with over 12 years of hands-on experience in the heating industry. He specializes in Air Source Heat Pump Installation as well as gas, oil, and other heating system installation and maintenance. Ronan’s journey in this field is fueled by a lifelong passion for innovative heating solutions and a dedication to ensuring optimal comfort and efficiency for his clients.
Qualifications and Expertise
Ronan holds a range of qualifications that reflect his deep expertise and commitment to excellence in heating system design and maintenance. His credentials include:
- Heat Geek Mastery Course: Advanced training in modern heating system design, focusing on maximizing efficiency and performance.
- System Hydraulics Course: Comprehensive understanding of the principles and applications of hydraulic systems in heating.
- Heat Pump Installation and Maintenance Course: Specialized skills in installing and maintaining heat pumps, ensuring they operate at peak efficiency.
Professional Experience
Over the past 12 years, Ronan has honed his skills in:
- Gas Heating Systems: Installation and maintenance of gas boilers and heating systems, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Oil Heating Systems: Expertise in oil-fired heating systems, providing reliable and efficient solutions for diverse needs.
- ASHP Heating Systems: Specialized knowledge in air source heat pump technology, offering eco-friendly and cost-effective heating solutions.
A Local Expert from Hampshire: Growing up and living in Hampshire, Ronan has a deep appreciation for the community and its unique heating needs. He understands the local climate and how to design and maintain systems that provide reliable comfort throughout the year.
My Mission
Ronan’s mission is to deliver top-tier heating solutions that combine cutting-edge technology with practical know-how. Whether you need a new installation, system maintenance, or a comprehensive design, he is committed to providing services that exceed expectations and enhance your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.