Best air source heat pump

Wanting to know which technology brand manufactures the best air source heat pump? When choosing an air source heat pump, it’s important to look at various factors such as unit and installation cost, the heat pump size and power, its efficiency, and more importantly the warranty and guarantees. Below we’ll discuss what to look for to make sure you have the best air source heat pump.

Let’s take a look at four of the best air source heat pumps

Aira heat pump

System options: 6kW – 12kW

Aira are relatively new to the heat pump market. In March 2024 Aira launched their state-of-the-art air source heat pump system. With an affordable monthly payment plan, zero upfront costs and a 15-year Comfort Guarantee, which is inclusive of performance, product, and installation warranty, Aira’s heat pump is set to change the renewable heating industry.

Through the sleek anthracite coating, this heat pump is designed to be timeless and effortlessly stylish – unlike that old gas boiler you’re hiding away. A seamless app experience replaces displays, there’s a classy thermostat and light cues so you know that everything is in working order.

Aira is backed by leading climate tech investors across Europe, the US and Asia, helping to accelerate Aira‘s strategy to drive the much-needed decarbonisation and electrification of residential heating across Europe.

While new to market, Aira has an excellent foundation of heat pump knowledge due to its Scandinavian heritage and roots in Sweden. Only 1% of the country’s total CO2 emissions come from residential heating in Sweden, with an impressive 60% of homes using heat pumps. Aira’s product and engineering team have been working on heat pumps for over 20+ years and have used their expertise and deep understanding of the technology to create the new Aira Heat Pump.

Aira heat pump customer review
“We had our Aira install in early January 2024 and happy with how the install went. It’s performing well with a COP of 3.9 in January & 4.2 in February. I’ve just also moved over to the Ovo Energy / Vaillant Heat Pump tariff for 15p per kWh which is incredible and it’s saving me even more money. When you combine this with the Aira 15 year comfort guarantee it’s a no brainer switching to Aira vs other companies.”
Ryan Cooper, March 2024

Mitsubishi Ecodan

System options: 5kW – 11.2kW

Mitsubishi are one of the main players in the development and manufacturing of air source heat pump technology. The Ecodan is one of the most advanced, energy-efficient air source heat pumps available on the market today. Mitsubishi offers a variety of options for those who’re interested in switching to a heat pump.

The Mitsubishi Electric range of Ecodan air source heat pumps is one of the most advanced heating systems available for homeowners and businesses. With an A++ ErP Energy Rating Label across the range, this is an ideal clean and green intelligent heating solution.

This innovative model has a guaranteed operation range down to -25°C ambient temperature, while utilising the refrigerant properties of R290 to efficiently achieve high water temperatures up to 75°C and a low GWP (Global Warming Potential). Making the Ecodan R290 heat pump the perfect renewable alternative to conventional fossil fuel boilers.

Mitsubishi Ecodan customer review
“We moved from a gas central heating system to a house with storage heaters, which never heated our home. With no gas we opted for an Ecodan system. Given our old age we asked our installer to design our system for 24c. Our new Ecodan system is very easy to turn up and down, our hot water is automatically done, and we regularly enjoy our house at 22-24C when required.”
Jean, October 2022

Vaillant aroTHERM

System options: 3.5kW – 12kW

Vaillant are a reputable European heating manufacturer founded in Germany in 1874. Initially specialising in boilers, they have branched-out to become a popular brand in the UK heat pump market. Vaillant heat pumps are especially quiet, which is important for users and neighbours, and have been awarded the ‘Quiet Mark’ for their low-decibel sound performance.

The aroTHERM plus air-to–water heat pump combines great performance, energy efficiency and sustainability, with an energy efficiency class of A+++. The aroTHERM plus air source heat pump, paired with a Vaillant hot water cylinder and indoor unit is ideal for a wide range of properties.

With a SCOP of up to 5.03, the aroTHERM plus is extremely energy efficient, enabling high energy savings against certain fossil fuels. The aroTHERM plus can also be combined with photovoltaic systems and integrated into smart power grids (SG-ready), so customers can enjoy the benefits of variable electricity tariffs.

Vaillant aroTherm customer review
“We have just had an aroTHERM Plus 7KW fitted and I am so happy with it. We researched a few companies, but Vaillant always seemed to come out on top and I can see why now. Our house is nice and toasty, and our COP is currently 4.5 which means it is 450% efficient! Well recommended.”
Andrew Barker, November 2024

Viesmann Vitocal

System options: 2.1kW – 14.9kW

Founded in 1917, Viesmann are a world leading manufacturer of high-efficiency heating and renewable energy systems for both residential and commercial properties. With over 40 years of experience specifically in the development and manufacturing of air source heat pumps for residential usage, Viessmann have perfected energy efficient, cost effective, and powerful renewable energy heating systems.

Viessmann Vitocal heat pumps are suitable for both new builds and modernisation. With a flow temperature of up to 70 °C, the Vitocal 150-A was specially developed for modernisation projects. Existing radiators can continue to be used. Underfloor heating is not essential. High energy efficiency, convenient control via app, sustainable operation and attractive design are all convincing features.

Their range of energy-efficient and reliable heat pumps, combined with their commitment to quality and customer support, makes them a leading manufacturer in the industry of heating systems.

Viesmann Viticol customer review
“The pump is almost silent, has easy app controls, and our house, a solid wall 1930’s bungalow, is more comfortable than ever. Now it is running at 450% efficiency that is for each unit of energy it uses it makes 4.5 where a conventional gas boiler is 80/90% efficient. As an initial running cost comparison for the first 11 days of March our gas use was £68, as we had a baby in the house. Our current electricity bill total on the 27th March is £41, with charging an electric car. Amazing piece of technology and an impressive warranty period for extra peace of mind. We have hesitation in recommending Libtek as an installer or Viessman as a renewable heat source.”
Gary Randall, March 2024

What’s the best air source heat pump?

With so many different heat pumps on the market, finding the best air source heat pump isn’t an easy feat. Manufacturers only use the best components, but some do things better than others. Though new to the market, the Aira heat pump is innovative, stylish and intuitive, and the perfect choice for anyone looking to switch to a heat pump the hassle-free way.

You can make up your own mind on the best air source heat pump as we’ve highlighted features that make these air source heat pumps some of the best on today’s market.

Aira heat pump
Aira produces by far one of the best looking and most energy-efficient heat pumps on the market. The complimentary 15-year Comfort Guarantee is one of the best you’ll receive. There’s a user-friendly app and the heat pump is constantly learning and adapting to your routine. It will learn your home routines, adjust to the weather forecast and show your savings in real figures and not stats. You’ll never be left out in the dark, or cold, with an Aira Heat Pump.

Mitsubishi Ecodan
A popular choice of heat pump amongst UK homeowners with good servicing and maintenance options.

Vaillant aroTHERM
This heat pump stands out for achieving high temperatures, meaning that it’s ideal for homes with high energy demands.

Viessmann Vitocal
This heat pump is known for peak efficiency, which ensures high performance and long-term savings.