If you’re looking for smarter ways to cut your energy bills, lower your carbon footprint, and future-proof your home, you’ve probably come across renewable energy technologies like solar panels and air source heat pumps. But can they work together? And if so, is it worth installing both?
In this blog, we break down how solar panels and air source heat pumps can work together, what you need to consider before combining them, and how to get the best performance (and value) out of both.
What are air source heat pumps?
Air source heat pumps provide a low-carbon alternative to traditional heating systems. Instead of burning fossil fuels like gas or oil, they absorb heat from the outside air (even when it’s cold) and use it to warm your home and hot water. Think of it like a fridge in reverse.
They run on electricity, making them ideal for homes looking to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels as well as their energy bills. Air source heat pumps are often used with underfloor heating or radiators and are known for being more energy efficient, especially in well-insulated homes. They use around a third of the energy of a gas boiler to produce the same heat output.
Can solar panels and air source heat pumps work together?
Pairing an air source heat pump with solar panels is a brilliant way to increase your home’s energy efficiency. Solar panels harness sunlight to generate electricity, which you can then use to power your heat pump. This helps you reduce your electricity demand from the grid, lower your energy bills, and make better use of greener electricity.
How solar panels support air source heat pumps
Solar panels generate electricity during the day, so if you use this energy to power your heat pump, you’re getting even more out of your setup. It’s a great way to turn clean energy into practical home heating.
While solar panels won’t power a heat pump 24/7, they can make a meaningful dent in your energy consumption.
They also mean:
- You can power your heat pump with solar energy during the day
- You can potentially save more on energy bills by using renewable energy
- You’ll reduce your reliance on grid electricity, especially during times of high demand
- You’ll be a step closer to reducing your carbon footprint and living a greener lifestyle
- You can store excess energy in a battery system to use later in the day or in the evening
What should you consider before combining solar panels and heat pumps?
Before adding solar panels to your current setup or investing in a full solar panel and air source heat pump combo, there are a few things to weigh up. The combination can be powerful, but it’s important to make sure your home is the right fit and the setup works well for your lifestyle.
System sizing
The size of your solar setup plays a big role in how much electricity you can produce. Because heat pumps require more electricity than most household appliances, you’ll need enough solar panels to keep up with that demand.
Exactly how many solar panels you’ll need depends on how much energy your home uses, how well it is insulated, and the size of the heat pump you install. Getting this right is crucial for making the most of your solar energy and keeping your heating bills down.
Roof compatibility
Solar panels work with many types of roofs, but some are more suitable than others. Details such as roof space, shape, material, condition, and even the direction it faces contribute to its suitability for solar panels.
If you’ve got a solar-suitable roof, then you’re well on your way to making a good investment. But if not, that doesn’t mean solar panels aren’t for you, it just means a little more planning may be required.
Upfront cost
While both systems offer long-term energy savings, the initial cost of installing solar panels and a heat pump is significant. If you’re working within a budget, you might want to start with one system and expand later.
The good news is that both solar panels and heat pumps work effectively as stand-alone systems.
Government grants like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme mean you can get up to £7,500 towards heat pump costs, while the Warm Homes: Local Grant offers support to low-income households towards heat pump and solar panel costs.
Solar battery storage
Batteries store any excess electricity during the day, ready to use later on, when the sun stops shining. They can make your solar-powered heat pump even more cost-effective, especially during the cooler months when electricity consumption tends to rise.
Is it better to get solar panels or an air source heat pump first?
There’s no right or wrong answer. It all depends on your needs and budget.
If you’re replacing an old central heating system or moving away from a gas boiler, it might make sense to start with a heat pump. But if your priority is cutting electricity bills and generating your own energy, solar panels are a great first step.
The good news? You don’t have to choose. A well-designed solar system can support your heating needs now or be paired with a heat pump later on.
Want to explore your solar options? Get in touch with Going Green
At Going Green Renewables, we specialise in solar panel installation and helping homeowners get the most from their renewable energy setup. We’ll help you design a solar system that suits your current lifestyle, whether you have an existing heat pump or not.
Our team will assess your home and heat pump energy needs to provide you with an estimate of the number of solar panels required and the potential energy cost savings.
Call our friendly team on 01252 560 587 for expert advice.
Frequently asked questions about combining solar panels with air source heat pumps
Do I need a specific type of solar panel for an air source heat pump?
You don’t need a specific type of solar panel, but you do need to get your solar system properly sized to match your electricity usage.
Can I use my existing solar panel system with a new air source heat pump?
You can, but it needs to generate enough energy to power your heat pump. If your solar panel system is too small or doesn’t generate enough power, you may need to expand it or add battery storage.
Do solar panels also work with ground source heat pumps?
Ground source heat pumps also use electricity to run, so they can work alongside solar panels.