Where to Install an Air Source Heat Pump

Installing an air source heat pump is an excellent step towards improving your home's energy efficiency and reducing electricity costs. However, the location of the heat pump plays a crucial role in its performance.  

This guide offers insights into where to install your air source heat pump, the rules that you need to adhere to, and how to maximise the efficiency of your unit. Whether you’re upgrading an existing system or embarking on a new installation, understanding how to install a heat pump correctly is vital in helping achieve your energy-saving aspirations.

Choosing Between Ground and Wall Hung Air Source Heat Pumps

Air source heat pumps for a home are typically situated on the ground or on an exterior wall. Each option has its own considerations affecting installation, logistics, aesthetics, and performance.

Ground-mounted units are easy to access for maintenance and can be integrated naturally into the landscape, which makes them less likely to affect the exterior aesthetic of your property.  

Wall-hung units are ideal for more compact buildings or for homes where space is restricted. Their positioning also makes them less susceptible to adverse weather, such as flooding and snow. However, it is important to maintain a clear area for air to flow into the unit, which is also a consideration for ground-mounted units.  

When choosing between a ground or wall-mounted ASHP, start by assessing the environment, potential airflow obstructions, and noise considerations. You may also need to be aware of specific building regulations and permissions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your unique circumstances, requirements, and the characteristics of your property.

Distance and Proximity Considerations for Air Source Heat Pump Installation

As a general rule, we suggest that ASHPs are situated at least one metre from exterior walls and away from fences or other obstructions. This ensures proper airflow into the system and prevents debris from gathering, which can affect performance and cause maintenance issues. This used to be a legal requirement, but has been removed in current regulations.

Noise levels should also be considered, particularly in highly urbanised areas or where there properties close together. Whilst most air source heat pumps are relatively quiet, they are not silent, so we suggest positioning your unit away from bedrooms or where it could cause a disturbance to neighbours. According to new rules which came into effect in May 2025, the noise from your heat pump must stay within a range of 42db, even during cold weather. 

By positioning your ASHP correctly, you can ensure that you do not breach this limit and risk being penalised, or encounter disputes with the rest of the street. 

Ideal Locations for an Air Source Heat Pump

Ground-mounted ASHPs should be placed on a stable, flat base such as a raised concrete platform. This limits the impacts from vibrations and also protects it from frost and standing water. This also allows for effective drainage and ventilation around the unit.

For wall-mounted ASHPs, consider the size of your unit – typically between 1m and 1.5m high and between 0.5m and 1m wide – and whether you have suitable wall space on the exterior of your property. Be careful not to place it too high off the ground; this is largely so that it can be easily inspected and maintained. Again, there needs to be suitable clearance around the pump for drainage and ventilation.  

Effective heat pump installations also consider factors like climate and even aesthetic appearance. Consider placing your ASHP in a space that gets a lot of sunlight, as this will warm the air drawn into your property and improve the overall effectiveness of your pump. If you have a ground-mounted pump, you can use the landscape to make it blend in and become more discreet. 

Locations to Avoid When Installing a Heat Pump

Though planning permission requirements regarding air source heat pumps have been relaxed, there are still some factors to consider, particularly for listed buildings or homes within conservation areas.

Keeping a heat pump at a reasonable distance from shared boundaries will prevent disputes and comply with the new noise regulations we mentioned before.

You might want to avoid installing your heat pump in an area that has high footfall or near pathways that you use on a regular basis. This allows you to keep other members of the household safe from tripping on the base of the unit and from coming into contact with the inner workings of the pump. 

Consult an Air Source Heat Pump Expert

At Baxi, we understand that there is a lot to consider when choosing the best place to install an air source heat pump. Our dedicated experts will work with you to install your heat pump in the way that maximises performance, lessens noise and visual impacts, and ultimately, keep your home at a comfortable temperature all year round.

Speak to us for more information about our air source heat pump range.