How Much Solar Do You Need to Help Power an Air Source Heat Pump?

Air source heat pumps run on electricity, while solar panels generate electricity from daylight. Combining the two can be a logical way to reduce the amount of grid electricity a home needs — but solar generation and heat pump demand do not always happen at the same time.

How does an air source heat pump use electricity?

An air source heat pump extracts heat from the outside air and transfers that heat into your home through your heating and hot water system. Unlike a gas boiler, it uses electricity rather than burning gas or oil.

Can solar panels help power a heat pump?

Yes. Electricity generated by solar panels can be used by the home, including electrical demand from an air source heat pump when the two are operating at the same time. This means solar can help reduce the amount of electricity that needs to be imported from the grid.

Why can't solar simply power the heat pump all the time?

The biggest challenge is timing. Solar panels generate electricity during daylight hours, with output varying according to the season and weather. A heat pump may need to operate during mornings, evenings and colder periods when solar generation is lower.

What size solar system do you need?

There is no single solar system size that is right for every heat pump home. The appropriate size depends on factors including the home's heat demand, insulation, occupancy, existing electricity consumption, roof space and orientation, the heat pump specification and how the household uses energy.

Where does battery storage fit in?

Battery storage can help address the timing mismatch between solar generation and household demand. Solar electricity generated during the day can be stored and then used later when the heat pump or other household appliances need electricity.

What should be considered before installing solar and a heat pump together?

• Current and expected electricity consumption

• The home's heat demand and insulation

• Heat pump size and operating pattern

• Available roof space and solar orientation

• Battery storage requirements

• Electricity tariff and energy-use patterns

• Future loads such as an electric vehicle
  

Is solar and a heat pump a good combination?

For many homes, solar and an air source heat pump can complement each other well. The important point is that the system needs to be designed around the property and household. Solar should not be sized simply by guessing how much electricity the heat pump will use, and a heat pump should not be selected simply because solar is being installed.

Ready to Find Out More?

Thinking about installing solar, an air source heat pump or both? AJK Energy provides energy solutions across Essex and London and can help you understand how the technologies could work together in your home.

Call 01708 693180 or request a quote.

Solar PV Serving Essex & East London • MCS Certified Solar & Battery Installers • 7 Years of Local Experience • Integrated Solar + Battery Solutions