Published: May 3, 2025 Air source heat pumps represent the future of home heating in Devon, offering an energy-efficient, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional systems. This comprehensive guide focuses on two leading manufacturers—Mitsubishi and Vaillant—exploring their servicing requirements and helping you determine if your property is suitable for this innovative heating technology. Understanding Air Source Heat Pumps Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) extract heat from the outside air and transfer it into your home, working effectively even in temperatures as low as -15°C. Unlike traditional boilers that burn fuel to generate heat, ASHPs use electricity to power a refrigeration cycle that concentrates ambient heat from the air. How They Work The outdoor unit draws in air across an evaporator containing refrigerant The refrigerant absorbs heat from the air and evaporates A compressor increases the temperature of the refrigerant The hot refrigerant transfers heat to your home's water system The cooled refrigerant returns to the evaporator to begin the cycle again Environmental Benefits Significantly lower carbon emissions than gas or oil heating Can use electricity from renewable sources for zero-carbon heating Typical CO₂ savings of 2-5 tonnes per year compared to fossil fuel systems Helps Devon homeowners reduce their carbon footprint While the initial investment for an air source heat pump system is higher than traditional heating systems, the operational costs can be significantly lower, especially when combined with good insulation and potentially qualifying for government incentives. How Air Source Heat Pumps Work: Interactive Visual Guide Air source heat pumps operate on a simple but ingenious principle: they extract heat from the outside air (even when it's cold) and transfer it into your home. Below is an interactive visualization showing how the different components work together to provide efficient heating for your Devon property. Outside Air 7°C Evaporator 2°C Compressor 70°C Condenser 50°C Expansion Valve 15°C Your Home 21°C i i i i Evaporator External coil that absorbs heat from outside air. The refrigerant inside evaporates into gas as it warms up, even at low outdoor temperatures. Compressor Compresses the refrigerant gas, drastically increasing its temperature. This is where most electricity is used in the heat pump system. Condenser Internal coil that releases heat into your home's water system. The refrigerant condenses back to liquid while releasing heat. Expansion Valve Reduces pressure of the liquid refrigerant, causing it to cool dramatically before it returns to the evaporator to restart the cycle. Start Animation How to Use the Animation Click the Start Animation button to visualize refrigerant flow Blue particles represent cool refrigerant returning to collect heat Red particles represent heated refrigerant transferring warmth to your home Click the i buttons to learn about each component's function Mitsubishi vs. Vaillant: Leading Heat Pump Technologies Both Mitsubishi and Vaillant are renowned manufacturers of high-quality air source heat pumps, each with their own strengths and unique features. Understanding the differences can help Devon homeowners make an informed decision. Feature Mitsubishi Ecodan Vaillant aroTHERM Plus Efficiency COP up to 5.1 COP up to 5.4 Output Range 4kW to 14kW models 3.5kW to 12kW models Noise Level As low as 45 dB(A) As low as 42 dB(A) Refrigerant R32 (lower GWP) R290 (natural refrigerant) Control System MELCloud with smartphone control sensoAPP with smart control Weather Compensation Advanced weather tracking Multi-sensor weather monitoring Warranty 7 years (with registered installation) 7 years (with registered installation) Mitsubishi Ecodan Strengths Market-leading reputation with extensive installer network in Devon Excellent low-temperature performance for colder Devon winters Quiet operation with optional night mode Wide range of compatible indoor units for different property types Proven reliability with extensive UK installation base Vaillant aroTHERM Plus Strengths Industry-leading efficiency with natural refrigerant Exceptionally quiet operation (ideal for densely populated areas) Produces higher flow temperatures (up to 75°C) for retrofitting Stylish German engineering with compact design Excellent integration with existing Vaillant systems Both manufacturers offer MCS-certified systems that may qualify for government incentive schemes. As experienced installers of both Mitsubishi and Vaillant heat pumps across Devon, we can provide tailored recommendations based on your specific property and heating requirements. Professional Servicing Requirements Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your air source heat pump operating at peak efficiency. Unlike traditional boilers, heat pumps have different servicing requirements and need to be maintained by technicians with specific qualifications. Essential Annual Servicing Checklist Outdoor Unit Checks: Inspect coil and fins for debris or damage Clean outdoor unit and remove any obstructions Check refrigerant levels and pressure Inspect electrical connections and components Clean condensate drain and pan Check fan motor and inspect fan blades Indoor System Checks: Inspect circulation pump and flow rates Check system pressure and bleed radiators Test control systems and thermostats Examine buffer tank and connections Validate temperature differentials Test safety mechanisms and emergency operation Manufacturer-Specific Servicing Requirements Mitsubishi Ecodan Service Points Validate FTC controller operation and parameter settings Check MELCloud connectivity and remote diagnostics Inspect plate heat exchanger for scaling Test inverter drive and compressor functionality Validate temperature sensor calibration Review energy monitoring data for efficiency Vaillant aroTHERM Service Points Check natural refrigerant circuit (specialist handling) Inspect sensitech valve and VRC 720 controller Test uniSTOR cylinder operation (if applicable) Validate eBUS communication system Check hydraulic station and expansion vessel Test sensoAPP connectivity and smart functions Important: Warranty Considerations Both Mitsubishi and Vaillant require annual servicing by qualified technicians to maintain the warranty. Our engineers are manufacturer-trained and certified to work on both systems, providing complete servicing documentation that preserves your warranty coverage and system efficiency. We recommend scheduling your heat pump service during autumn, before the Devon winter sets in. This timing ensures your system is operating at peak efficiency when you need it most, preventing issues during the coldest months when the system is under the most stress. Property Suitability: Is Your Devon Home Right for a Heat Pump? Not all properties are equally suitable for air source heat pumps. Understanding the key factors that determine suitability can help Devon homeowners make informed decisions before investing in this technology. Devon's Unique Climate Considerations Devon's mild maritime climate makes it particularly well-suited for air source heat pumps compared to colder inland regions of the UK. With average winter temperatures in Exeter rarely dropping below 2°C, heat pumps maintain excellent efficiency year-round. Coastal areas like Exmouth and Sidmouth benefit from even milder temperatures, while properties in more elevated areas of Dartmoor may require careful system sizing to account for temperature variations. Ideal Property Characteristics for Heat Pumps Insulation & Energy Efficiency Well-insulated walls, roof, and floors Double or triple glazed windows Draught-proofed throughout EPC rating of C or above ideal Heating System Compatibility Underfloor heating or large radiators Existing low-temperature system Zoned heating controls Modern hot water cylinder Space & Installation Requirements Adequate outdoor space for the unit Good air flow around outdoor unit Space for a buffer tank internally Access for installation equipment Property Type Suitability Most Suitable: New-build properties Recently renovated homes Well-insulated bungalows Modern detached houses Less Suitable: Listed buildings Older, solid-wall properties Flats with limited outdoor space Properties with poor insulation Location & Climate Factors Devon's climate is particularly well-suited to heat pumps, with: Milder winter temperatures than many UK regions Higher average ambient temperatures Coastal areas benefit from maritime climate buffer Rural properties often have ample space for installation Common Retrofit Scenarios for Devon Properties Oil to Heat Pump Conversion Many rural Devon properties currently using oil boilers are excellent candidates for heat pump conversion, especially if: The property has been upgraded with modern insulation The existing radiator system is adequately sized or can be upgraded There's existing space for a hot water cylinder The homeowner wants to reduce carbon emissions and dependency on oil deliveries Gas to Heat Pump Transition Properties in Exeter and other urban areas currently on gas mains may consider heat pumps if: The property has undergone comprehensive energy efficiency improvements The homeowner wants to future-proof against rising gas prices There's sufficient space for the outdoor unit and buffer systems The electrical supply can be upgraded if necessary Property Assessment is Essential Before proceeding with any heat pump installation, we strongly recommend a thorough property assessment and heat loss calculation. This allows us to accurately determine: The exact heat pump capacity required for your Devon property Any necessary improvements to insulation or heating distribution The most suitable heat pump model and configuration Accurate running cost projections Whether a hybrid system might be more suitable for your property Our experienced heat pump engineers provide comprehensive property assessments across Devon, offering honest advice on whether your home is suitable for this technology. Devon Heat Pump Case Studies Victorian Terrace, St. Thomas, Exeter 1890s Property Mitsubishi Ecodan This challenging retrofit involved upgrading insulation and installing larger radiators in key rooms. With careful system design, we achieved a 3.2 CoP ratio even in this older property. 62% reduction in heating costs Cottage Conversion, Topsham Oil Replacement Vaillant aroTHERM Converting from an aging oil system, this riverside property now benefits from Vaillant's quiet operation and smart controls. The coastal location provides ideal operating conditions. 78% reduction in carbon emissions New Build, Cullompton 2023 Construction Mitsubishi Ultra Quiet This modern eco-home features underfloor heating throughout, a 300L thermal store, and Veyvalinx smart controls. The system achieves exceptional efficiency with a 3.8 CoP ratio. 3.8 CoP with minimal running costs How Heat Pumps Integrate With Your Home's Heating System Understanding how an air source heat pump connects to your existing heating system is crucial. This interactive wireframe house model demonstrates how heat pumps integrate with radiators, underfloor heating, and hot water cylinders in a typical Devon home. Click the buttons below to see how a heat pump works with your home's heating system. Hover over components to learn their function. Air Source Heat Pump 48°C Living Room 21°C Kitchen 21.5°C Bathroom 22°C Bedroom 20°C Utility Hot Water 55°C Buffer 1.5 Bar System Controls Start Animation Reset How Heat Pumps Connect to Your Home The outdoor heat pump unit extracts heat from ambient air A buffer tank may be used to stabilize the system and prevent frequent on/off cycling Existing radiators can be used, though larger ones may be needed for optimal efficiency Underfloor heating works exceptionally well with heat pumps due to lower operating temperatures A dedicated hot water cylinder stores hot water for domestic use The entire system typically operates at lower temperatures (35-55°C) than traditional boilers Visual Guide: Air Source Heat Pumps To help you better understand air source heat pump systems, here are visual examples of installations we've completed across Devon, showcasing both Mitsubishi and Vaillant units in different property types. Mitsubishi Ecodan Installation Vaillant aroTHERM Installation Indoor System Components Click or tap on any image to enlarge and view more details. Our engineers are certified installers for both Mitsubishi and Vaillant air source heat pump systems throughout Devon. Frequently Asked Questions How much does it cost to install an air source heat pump in Devon? Installation costs typically range from £8,000 to £14,000 for a standard Mitsubishi or Vaillant air source heat pump system in Devon. However, this can vary based on property size, system capacity, and whether additional work is required (like radiator upgrades or improved insulation). Government incentives may be available to offset some of these costs. We provide detailed, transparent quotes following a thorough property assessment. How do Mitsubishi and Vaillant heat pumps compare for running costs? Both manufacturers offer similarly efficient systems, with Vaillant's aroTHERM Plus having a slight edge in maximum efficiency ratings. Running costs depend more on your property's insulation, heating system, and how the heat pump is used than on the brand. In a well-insulated Devon home with appropriate heat emitters, either system should provide running cost savings of 25-40% compared to oil heating, and potentially 10-20% compared to gas heating, depending on current energy prices. How often do air source heat pumps need servicing? Both Mitsubishi and Vaillant air source heat pumps require annual servicing to maintain warranty coverage and optimal performance. Our servicing includes comprehensive checks of all system components, refrigerant levels, pressure testing, electrical safety checks, and performance verification. We recommend scheduling services in autumn before the Devon winter season. Our maintenance contracts include annual servicing, priority call-outs, and warranty documentation maintenance. Can I get financial support for installing a heat pump in Devon? Yes, the UK government offers financial support through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which provides grants of £7,500 towards air source heat pump installations. To qualify, your installation must be carried out by an MCS-certified installer like ourselves. Additionally, some local authorities in Devon offer additional incentives for low-carbon heating systems. We can handle the entire application process on your behalf to secure the maximum available funding for your installation. What's the average lifespan of Mitsubishi and Vaillant heat pumps? With proper maintenance, both Mitsubishi Ecodan and Vaillant aroTHERM heat pumps typically last 15-20 years, which is considerably longer than conventional boilers. The outdoor unit may require replacement after this period, but many internal components can last longer. Both manufacturers offer 7-year warranties on their heat pump systems when installed by certified professionals like ourselves, demonstrating their confidence in the long-term reliability of these systems. Are there any special planning considerations for heat pumps in Exeter and Devon? In most parts of Exeter and Devon, air source heat pumps are considered permitted development and don't require planning permission, provided they meet certain criteria: The unit is installed at least 1 meter from your property boundary It's not installed on a pitched roof or wall facing a highway The installation complies with MCS noise standards However, special rules apply for listed buildings and properties in conservation areas (like Exeter's city center, parts of Topsham, and many Devon villages). In these areas, you'll likely need to apply for planning permission. Exeter City Council and Devon County Council are generally supportive of renewable heating systems, and our team can provide guidance on the planning process specific to your location. Expertise in Air Source Heat Pump Technology As experienced installers and service engineers for both Mitsubishi and Vaillant heat pump systems across Devon, we're committed to helping homeowners transition to efficient, environmentally friendly heating solutions. Our comprehensive approach includes: Thorough property assessments to determine heat pump suitability Honest advice on the most appropriate system for your specific needs Professional installation by manufacturer-certified engineers Annual servicing to maintain warranty coverage and optimal performance Emergency repairs with rapid response times throughout Devon Whether you're looking to replace an existing heating system or exploring options for a new property, we'd be delighted to discuss how air source heat pump technology could benefit your Devon home. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation and property assessment. Ready to explore heat pump options for your property? Our expert team is available to answer your questions and provide personalized advice. Contact Our Heat Pump Specialists