Frequently asked questions

An air source heat pump extracts heat energy from the outside air and upgrades it to useful heat for central heating and hot water.

A monobloc heat pump system has all of the refrigerant components contained within the outdoor unit, meaning the central heating system and the DHW coil are directly connected to the external unit. Due to the increased size of a monobloc unit it is normally ground mounted and to minimise the higher heat losses, the fan unit should be located as close to the property as possible.

The hardness of water is measured in parts per million (ppm) of calcium carbonate deposits. This is caused by the geology of the region. Very hard water is >200 ppm. Hard water forms when water passes through limestone and chalk in the ground which are full of calcium and magnesium carbonates. In comparison, soft water areas generally have < 100ppm. Soft water comes from areas across the country that are formed of hard igneous rock, like granite that rainwater runs over. Scotland, Southwest and Northwest England, and West of Wales are typically soft water areas. Soft water is pure and has low electrical conductivity. Water composition will ultimately have an impact on product material and additional protective measures.

Yes, typically, a heat pump should be serviced on an annual basis. To request a service or for any queries, contact your Area Sales Manager or contact us HERE.

There are many limescale protection devices on the market. While stainless steel products provide a durable first line of defence, it is important to note that stainless steel offers more protection against corrosion caused by soft water rather than preventing limescale entirely. Stainless steel products can still scale up.

However, the Hamworthy Heating range of stainless steel hot water cylinders and condensing water heaters – such as the Dorchester DR-CC and Halstock stainless steel calorifier – are constructed from high grade 316L austenitic stainless steel, do not require anode protection, and are designed to reduce maintenance and increase system lifespan. For more information visit HERE.

No, as long as they are correctly designed and installed by a qualified engineer.

Heat pump training is available from the Hamworthy Heating Expert Academy. To book a space visit HERE.

Hamworthy Heating also offers a number of CIBSE approved heat pump Continuing Professional Development (CPD) seminars, which are led by a knowledgeable and expert team. For more information or to book a space visit HERE.

When it comes to tackling the different issues commonly associated with water composition and DHW systems, the biggest advantage of utilising stainless steel is its durability. Also, as no lining needs to be applied to the inside of a stainless steel vessel, this reduces the risk of imperfections and small crevices from appearing, which can cause water to become stagnant and corrode over time. Offering relatively low maintenance, their smooth surface also makes them easy to clean, which can help to minimise the risk of scale build-up and sediment accumulation. Lastly, from a practical point of view, stainless steel products have the added advantage of being lighter in weight, which makes them easier to transport, handle and install. For more information on the benefits of stainless steel visit HERE.

The Dorchester DR-SG features an electrical anode to provide enhanced protection against corrosion. While the unit's stainless steel construction offers significant resistance to corrosion, the anode acts as an additional safeguard, especially in areas with challenging water conditions. This proactive measure helps to extend the lifespan of the water heater and reduce maintenance needs.

Yes, in most cases if the heating system has been sized correctly, a heat pump is a suitable alternative to a traditional fossil fuel system.

Soft water has a low mineral content, which means it is less likely to form limescale deposits. However, it can be more aggressive towards certain materials, leading to an increased risk of corrosion inside hot water vessels and pipework.

This is where stainless steel products offer a significant advantage. High-grade stainless steel, such as 316L austenitic stainless steel used in Hamworthy Heating products, provides excellent resistance against corrosion in soft water environments. Stainless steel also reduces the need for protective linings or anode replacement, helping to lower maintenance requirements and extend system lifespan.

Air source heat pumps offer an efficient and reliable way of heating buildings and provide a good alternative to traditional fossil fuel boilers. With a compact design, air source heat pump technology is one of the most versatile and cost-effective low carbon appliances on the market. To find out more about the Tyneham commercial heat pumps visit HERE.

• Reduced carbon footprint

• Incentives and funding benefits

• Reduced running costs