What to expect from an ASHP Survey in your home: A Comprehensive Guide
As the push towards greener, more energy-efficient solutions grows, low-carbon heating systems like air source heat pumps (ASHPs) have gained popularity. In the Isle of Man, 13% reported they already had a low-carbon heating system in their home, with 25% saying they’d make the switch to a low-carbon heating system before their boiler needs replacing (1). Around the world, 10% of buildings have heated heat pumps, corresponding to one in ten homes that require substantial heating served by heat pumps today (2).
If you’re considering installing an ASHP in your property, one of the first steps is an ASHP survey at your home. This crucial assessment helps determine the suitability of your property for an ASHP system, ensuring that the installation will be efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.
But what exactly happens during an ASHP survey? Here’s a detailed guide on what to expect.
The onsite assessment
If you’ve chosen to install a heat pump, you must get a proper room-by-room heat loss calculation done. This involves an on-site visit by a qualified surveyor. Here’s what you can expect during this stage:
1. Property Evaluation
The surveyor will assess various aspects of your property, including:
- Size and Layout: The size and layout of your home are crucial in determining the capacity of the ASHP system required. They will do a full detailed measuring of all heated spaces, including:
- Floor area
- Ceiling height
- Radiators
- Insulation Levels: The surveyor will inspect the insulation in your walls, roof, and floors. They are looking at the level of airtightness in your property, in areas such as:
- Suspended floors
- Open fires
- Vented log burners
- Pipe entries
- Cable entries
- Windows and Doors: The condition and type of windows and doors will be checked to understand heat loss areas.
- Internal Space Assessment: There must be space for a water cylinder inside the property.
If the surveyor has not measured every window, wall and door, looked at the depth of the loft insulation, enquired about cavity insulation and measured every radiator in your house, they have not performed a heat loss survey.
Just the details of the heat loss survey alone should take 1 to 2 hours on-site to obtain, excluding time talking to the client about any options etc.
2. Heating System Inspection
The surveyor will examine your existing heating system. If you currently have a boiler system, they will assess how well it can integrate with the ASHP. They’ll also check your radiators, hot water cylinder or underfloor heating systems to ensure they’re suitable for use with an ASHP, which typically operates at a lower temperature than conventional boilers.
There will also be a check for micro-bore pipework which is not compatible with the ASHP.
3. External Space Assessment
ASHPs require outdoor space for the installation of the unit. The surveyor will look for a suitable location. They will also assess whether there’s sufficient space to install the outdoor unit, considering factors like noise levels, airflow, and accessibility for maintenance as well as the size of the condensate gully as the volume of condensate from an ASHP will be more than a boiler.
4. Electrical System Review
Since ASHPs are powered by electricity, the surveyor will inspect your home’s electrical system to ensure it can handle the additional load. They might check the fuse box, wiring, and power supply to determine if upgrades are necessary. Surveyors should also check the distribution Network Operator (DNO) which will ensure the local network can handle the additional load from a new heat pump installation.
Other things that Manx Utilities do when they are doing a survey include sound calculations to ensure noise levels comply with planning requirements.
Heat Loss Calculation
One of the key elements of the ASHP Heat Loss Survey is the heat loss calculation. The surveyor will calculate how much heat your home loses. This calculation is vital in determining the size and capacity of the ASHP needed to heat your home effectively. At Manx Utilities, the information collated is then fed into a software programme which calculates the heat loss and identifies the ASHP & cylinder sizes required. It will also size new radiators and provide indicative running costs.
Also remember that although engineers say they have completed heat loss calculations, they vary greatly in how in-depth they are.
Discussion of Options and Recommendations
After completing the assessment, the surveyor will discuss their findings with you. They’ll provide recommendations on the most suitable ASHP system for your home, including the type of unit, its capacity, and potential locations for installation.
They may also suggest improvements, such as upgrading insulation or installing double-glazed windows, to enhance the efficiency of the ASHP. This is the time to ask any questions or express any concerns you might have.
Detailed Report and Quotation
Following the survey, you will receive a detailed report. This document will include:
- The surveyor’s findings and heat loss calculations
- Recommendations for the ASHP system
- Potential costs involved, including installation and any necessary upgrades
- Expected energy savings and potential payback period
Making an Informed Decision
With the survey report in hand, you’ll be in a strong position to make an informed decision about proceeding with the ASHP installation. You’ll have a clear understanding of what’s involved, the costs, and the benefits you can expect in terms of energy savings and environmental impact.
Final Thoughts
An ASHP survey is a critical step in the process of transitioning to a more sustainable heating system ensuring the ASHP you install is well suited to your home, maximising efficiency and comfort. By understanding what to expect from the survey, you can prepare adequately and engage fully in the process, leading to a successful ASHP installation that will benefit both your home and the environment for years to come.
We like this blog from Heat Geek who helps you work out the calculations at home Heat Loss Calculation: Heat Pump & Boiler Sizing Guide (heatgeek.com)
For advice and more information on how to install a heat pump, head to the Manx Utilities Website or visit the Government’s list of approved contractors on Construction Isle of Man to find installers!