What Is an Air-to-Air Heat Pump and How Does It Work?

Across Derbyshire and the wider Midlands, more and more households are exploring alternatives to traditional heating systems. Rising energy costs, government net-zero targets, and the need for eco-friendly home solutions have all made heat pumps one of the most talked-about heating technologies of 2025.

If you’ve heard about heat pumps but aren’t quite sure how they work — particularly air-to-air heat pumps — this guide is for you. We’ll break down the technology in simple terms, explain the benefits, and show why they are a great option for homeowners in Derby, Nottingham, Leicester, and surrounding areas.

What Is an Air-to-Air Heat Pump?

An air-to-air heat pump is a renewable heating system that uses electricity to extract heat from the outside air and transfer it into your home. Instead of burning fossil fuels like gas or oil, it works by moving existing heat — even when it feels cold outside.

The system consists of two main components:

• Outdoor unit: Absorbs heat from the outside air.

• Indoor units (fans): Distribute warm (or cool) air into the rooms of your home.

Because the system moves heat rather than creating it by burning fuel, it’s highly efficient and much better for the environment.

How Does It Work?

The process behind an air-to-air heat pump is similar to how a fridge operates, but in reverse.

1. Heat absorption: The outdoor unit draws in air, passing it over a refrigerant fluid. Even in winter, the air contains usable heat.

2. Compression: The refrigerant is compressed, raising its temperature.

3. Heat exchange: The hot refrigerant transfers its heat to the indoor air system.

4. Distribution: Warm air is circulated into your rooms using wall-mounted or ducted indoor units.

In summer, the process can be reversed, allowing the heat pump to act as an air conditioning system by cooling the home instead.

Key Benefits of Air-to-Air Heat Pumps

For many homeowners across Derbyshire, the big question is: why choose an air-to-air heat pump over a traditional boiler or electric heating?

Here are the main benefits:

1. Lower Energy Bills

Because heat pumps move heat rather than generate it, they are far more efficient than gas or oil boilers. In fact, for every 1kW of electricity used, an air-to-air heat pump can deliver up to 3kW of heat.

2. Year-Round Comfort

Unlike a gas boiler, which only provides heating, an air-to-air heat pump can also cool your home in summer. This makes it a versatile option, especially as UK summers are getting warmer.

3. Environmentally Friendly

Heat pumps significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to fossil fuel heating. Choosing one means you’re playing your part in reducing the UK’s carbon footprint.

4. Flexible Installation

Indoor units can be wall-mounted or ducted to suit your home. This makes the system suitable for a wide range of property types, from modern builds to older homes in Derbyshire.

5. Long-Term Value

Although the initial cost may be higher than a standard boiler, the long lifespan, reduced bills, and available grants make them a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Are Air-to-Air Heat Pumps Right for Derbyshire Homes?

One of the most common myths about heat pumps is that they only work well in new builds or highly insulated properties. The reality is that modern systems are effective across a wide variety of homes.

• Older homes: With some insulation improvements, an air-to-air heat pump can still be very effective.

• Flats & apartments: Wall-mounted units make installation practical, even where space is limited.

• Family homes: Multi-room systems can heat several areas at once, ensuring comfort throughout the property.

If you live in Derbyshire, where winters can be cold but not extreme compared to northern Europe, air-to-air systems are well-suited to the local climate.

Costs and Grants in 2025

The cost of installing an air-to-air heat pump varies depending on property size, number of indoor units required, and system specification. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between £3,000–£7,000 for installation.

In 2025, there are still government grants available to help households make the switch to renewable heating. While the Boiler Upgrade Scheme focuses mainly on air-to-water and ground-source pumps, other schemes like ECO4 and Home Upgrade Grants (HUG) may provide support, particularly for lower-income or off-gas households.

It’s also worth checking with Derbyshire County Council or your local authority for regional incentives.

Maintenance and Lifespan

Air-to-air heat pumps are relatively low maintenance. A professional service is recommended once a year to check the system, but otherwise, the main task is to keep the filters clean and ensure the outdoor unit is free of debris.

With proper care, a heat pump can last 15–20 years, making it a long-term investment in your home’s energy efficiency.

Why Choose Midland Heat Pumps?

Choosing the right installer is just as important as the system itself. At Midland Heat Pumps, we specialise in air-to-air heat pump installations across Derbyshire and the wider Midlands.

• Local knowledge: We understand the needs of Derbyshire homes, from city properties in Derby to rural homes in the Peak District.

• Accredited team: Our engineers are fully trained and certified, ensuring a professional installation every time.

• End-to-end service: From free surveys and quotes to installation and aftercare, we guide you through every step.

• Focus on value: We help you explore grants and funding options, ensuring you get the best deal possible.

Conclusion

Air-to-air heat pumps are a smart, future-proof choice for homeowners in Derbyshire. They provide efficient heating in winter, cooling in summer, and a significant reduction in carbon emissions. With energy bills still a concern for many families, and grants available to reduce upfront costs, now is the perfect time to explore this renewable heating option.

Whether you’re in Derby, Nottingham, Leicester, or elsewhere in the Midlands, Midland Heat Pumps is here to help you make the switch. Contact us today to arrange your free survey and discover how an air-to-air heat pump can transform your home.