RightAir Solutions is a company that specialises in commercial air conditioning services.
More homeowners across NW10, Notting Hill, Queen’s Park, Kensington, Maida Vale, Hampstead and London as a whole are reconsidering their heating options as energy prices rise and gas boilers become less viable. The decision between a heat pump and an air conditioning system that provides heating is now a practical step toward reducing bills and preparing for a low carbon future. With support from bodies like Ofgem and National Grid ESO, and with grants available through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, the question has shifted from “should I switch?” to “what suits my home best?”
Heat pumps and reverse cycle air conditioning systems both heat your home, but the way they operate is different. A heat pump draws warmth from the outside air or ground and brings it indoors. A reverse cycle air conditioner uses a refrigerant loop and an inverter compressor to both cool and heat your living space.
Air to water heat pumps connect to radiators or underfloor heating. Air to air models, often called ductless mini splits, use wall mounted indoor units to warm individual rooms. These systems do not create heat; they move it, which makes them energy efficient. This difference is important when comparing low carbon heating systems in the UK.
In areas like Queen’s Park or Hampstead, cold spells are common. It is reasonable to ask whether electric systems can cope. Many modern heat pumps and air conditioning units are tested to maintain warmth at temperatures as low as minus five degrees. This is often verified through Energy Saving Trust performance reports.
Features like standby modes, frost protection and weather compensation help keep rooms comfortable even on freezing days. Though they warm up more slowly than gas boilers, once running they keep heat consistent. Good design and the right capacity allow these systems to perform well in older properties too.
SCOP and COP performance ratings give a clearer view of how systems perform in winter. SCOP, or Seasonal Coefficient of Performance, shows how efficiently your system works across a full heating season. Some models remain efficient even at two degrees outside.
Pro Tip: Book your EPC check early if you’re considering a grant. It’s one of the first things assessed.
Suitability depends on insulation, layout and space. Flats and terraced homes might have limited room for outdoor units. Detached houses in places like Kensington or Maida Vale usually have more flexibility.
Heat pumps benefit from strong wall insulation and radiators matched to low flow temperatures. In conservation areas, planning rules may limit installation options. Your local planning authority or installer can give advice. A qualified assessor will check zoning, flow rates, fan coil compatibility and the condition of your building envelope.
If your home has limited electricity supply or is off grid, you might need battery storage or phased upgrades. Always check with your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) before making plans.
Building envelope assessment, zone by zone heating strategy and radiator compatibility are all part of a full survey. These factors help determine whether a heat pump, AC or hybrid system is best.
Heat pumps usually cost more to install but often work out cheaper to run, especially on off peak tariffs such as Agile Octopus, regulated by Ofgem. Heating through air conditioning units may cost less up front, but running costs can add up in cold months.
You will also want to factor in maintenance, system lifespan and potential repair costs. Heat pumps can last up to twenty years with regular servicing. Choosing the right size and setup from the start often leads to a better return over time. According to RightAir, proper sizing is one of the most important factors.
Electricity prices can vary, so systems with smart zoning or weather compensation help keep bills steady. Consider both short term costs and the lifetime cost of ownership.
You could qualify for a government grant through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. This covers part of the heat pump cost and usually requires a valid EPC rating and a certified installer. Councils across London including Brent offer guidance on eligibility.
Companies like RightAir often help with the application process and ensure your installer meets the right standards. MCS Certification and TrustMark accreditation are important for quality and compliance.
You own the property
Your EPC does not require insulation upgrades
You are replacing a gas or oil boiler
Your installer is MCS certified
For support applying for a heat pump grant in NW10 or nearby areas, speak with a local MCS certified installer or check your local authority’s guidance.
In Hampstead, a homeowner upgraded their insulation and installed a heat pump, resulting in noticeably lower bills. A Notting Hill flat owner used a ductless air conditioning system for cooling in summer and heating in winter. In Maida Vale, a family chose a mix: they kept their radiators but added air conditioning units for zoned warmth.
These setups highlight the flexibility of modern systems. Depending on your layout, timeline and insulation, results can vary, but comfort and savings are possible. Retrofit timelines, installer survey reports and EPC rating uplift are all important when measuring success.
Some people keep their existing boiler for hot water or winter backup. They then use a heat pump or air conditioning for daily heating. This hybrid option can lower fuel use without needing to replace every part of your heating system straight away.
Pro Tip: In conservation areas, always double check planning restrictions before choosing an external unit.
Think about how much space you have for outdoor units, what the system will look like and how much noise it makes. Most outdoor units are quiet, but always check the decibel rating.
Servicing access and refrigerant refill costs matter too. Smart thermostats and multi zone setups can improve comfort, but they require careful planning from the start.
Listed buildings and conservation zones often have rules. It is best to check before booking an installer.
Here are five quick questions to help you decide:
Do you want a system that also cools?
How well insulated is your home?
Are you planning to stay long term?
Have you already started moving away from gas?
Do you prefer lower upfront costs or better long term value?
TrustMark decision trees and retrofit tools can help. Or ask a local installer for a full heating audit.
If you are not sure where to begin, contact heat pump installers in your part of London who are familiar with local housing types.
Can air conditioning heat a whole house? Yes, with the right number and location of indoor units, reverse cycle systems provide full home heating.
Will my old radiators work with a heat pump? They might need upgrading. Heat pumps work best with larger radiators designed for lower flow temperatures.
Are the systems noisy? Most are quieter than everyday household sounds.
Am I eligible for a grant? If your home has a solid EPC rating and you use an MCS installer, there is a good chance you are.
How long does installation take? A simple air conditioning unit takes about a day. Full heat pump systems may take two to five days.
Your best starting point is a survey. It will tell you whether your property can support one of these systems.
RightAir and other qualified installers in London offer free or low cost home assessments. They can also help with your grant application.
Reducing bills and futureproofing your heating is realistic for many homes. With the right advice and a clear plan, it is more achievable than you might expect.
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