Your Guide to Air Source Heat Pump Radiators

Air source heat pump radiators and radiators for air source heat pumps are essential components in making a low-carbon heating system work efficiently. If you’re thinking about switching to renewable heating or upgrading your current setup, understanding how radiators integrate with an air source heat pump is key.

At KD Jones, we specialise in tailored air source heat pump installations and maintenance across Surrey. Our approach ensures your heating system, including radiators, performs at its best from day one and stays reliable long into the future.

How Air Source Heat Pumps Work with Radiators

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) extract heat from the air outside your home and transfer it into your central heating and hot water system. While highly efficient, they produce heat at lower temperatures than traditional boilers. Typical output ranges between 35°C and 55°C, compared to around 70°C for conventional systems.

This lower flow temperature means your radiators must be correctly sized and specified. Not all radiators are suited to heat pump systems, so getting this part right is essential.

Do You Need Special Radiators for Air Source Heat Pumps?

In many cases, you can continue using your existing radiators, provided they are large enough and your home is well-insulated. However, it’s often recommended to install new models to get the best performance.

Larger Surface Area Means Greater Heat Output

Since air source heat pumps work at lower temperatures, radiators need more surface area to emit the same level of warmth. Depending on your property, we may recommend:

• Oversized radiators, offering more heat output from a larger surface area
• Low-temperature radiators, engineered specifically for use with heat pumps
• Aluminium or steel radiators, which heat up quickly and improve responsiveness

Underfloor Heating Integration

In some cases, underfloor heating can complement or replace radiators entirely. It works particularly well with heat pumps, offering low-temperature heating across a broad surface area and consistent room comfort.

How KD Jones Helps You Choose the Right Radiators

Selecting radiators for air source heat pumps isn’t simply a case of buying bigger ones. It requires an understanding of your property’s layout, insulation, and energy needs. KD Jones offers a full end-to-end service that includes:

Accurate Heat Loss Calculations

We evaluate each room to calculate exactly how much heat is required. This allows us to size and position radiators with precision.

Bespoke Recommendations

Our team offers tailored advice based on your home, your lifestyle, and your goals for efficiency and comfort. We take into account everything from room use and layout to aesthetic preferences.

Professional Installation

We ensure correct pipework, flow rates, valve controls, and zoning. Our experienced team makes sure your system runs quietly, efficiently, and effectively.

Can You Retrofit Existing Radiators?

Sometimes, yes. If your current radiators are already oversized or your property is well-insulated, we may be able to reuse them. However, we always assess each one for efficiency and compatibility. Where needed, we’ll upgrade only the parts of your system that truly need replacing, saving you unnecessary cost.

What Happens If Radiators Aren’t Compatible?

If radiators are too small, inefficient, or poorly located, you may experience:

• Uneven room temperatures
• Long heating times
• Higher electricity usage
• Extra strain on the heat pump

Choosing the wrong radiators reduces system efficiency and can undo many of the benefits of investing in renewable heating. That’s why expert guidance is essential from the beginning.

Why Choose KD Jones for Radiators and Air Source Heat Pump Systems?

We combine technical expertise with a customer-first approach, making your transition to low-carbon heating smooth and stress-free.

Renewable Heating Specialists

Our team is MCS-certified and up to date with the latest in heat pump technologies and low-temperature radiator systems. We ensure your system meets current standards and performs reliably.

Comprehensive Service

We handle everything, from initial survey to installation and aftercare. Whether you need a full heating overhaul or just want to improve your current setup, we offer a complete solution.

Local and Trusted

We’re based in Redhill and work throughout Surrey. We’ve earned a reputation for reliability, expert advice, and friendly service, backed by real experience in homes just like yours.

Ongoing Support

We don’t stop at installation. We offer long-term maintenance and servicing to keep your heat pump and radiators performing at their best, season after season.

Flexible Finance Options

We’re now offering our customers 0% finance options for up to 12 months, so you can spread the cost of your heating upgrades over time. With the savings you make each month from an air source heat pump, this cost will feel like even less over time.

Ready to Upgrade Your Heating System?

Choosing the right air source heat pump radiators can significantly affect comfort, efficiency, and long-term running costs. Whether you're retrofitting or planning a brand new heating system, we’re here to help.

Visit our Renewable Energy page to explore your options or call our friendly team on 01737 211 376 to book a consultation.

Did you enjoy this read? You may like this recent blog on Underfloor Heating.

FAQs

What are the best radiators for air source heat pumps?

The best radiators for air source heat pumps are oversized or low-temperature radiators designed to emit more heat at lower flow temperatures. Aluminium radiators and fan-assisted models are also effective, as they heat up quickly and work efficiently with the lower output of a heat pump system. The ideal choice depends on your property’s insulation, room size, and heat loss calculations.

Can I use my existing radiators with an air source heat pump?

Yes, you can sometimes use existing radiators with an air source heat pump, especially if they’re already oversized or if your home is well-insulated. However, most homes benefit from upgrading to larger or more efficient radiators to maintain consistent room temperatures and avoid putting strain on the heat pump. A full survey by a qualified installer like KD Jones is essential to assess compatibility.

Do I need new pipework when installing radiators for air source heat pumps?

Not always. In many cases, the existing pipework can be reused, provided it’s in good condition and sized appropriately. However, heat pumps may require adjustments to flow rates and return temperatures, which sometimes means upgrading parts of the system. A professional assessment will determine whether new pipework is needed.

Why are oversized radiators recommended for air source heat pumps?

Oversized radiators are recommended because air source heat pumps work at lower temperatures than traditional boilers. To emit the same amount of heat, radiators need a larger surface area. Bigger radiators help ensure rooms reach a comfortable temperature quickly and stay warm efficiently.

Can I combine radiators with underfloor heating in a heat pump system?

Yes. Many air source heat pump systems use a hybrid setup of underfloor heating downstairs and radiators upstairs. This allows you to maximise efficiency in open-plan areas while maintaining flexibility in bedrooms or smaller spaces. KD Jones can design and install a fully integrated system tailored to your home layout and lifestyle.