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Heat pumps are a sustainable and effective way to provide heating and hot water for your home, but if the only option for installation is in your garden, some homeowners may be worried about the way they make their garden look.
Find out how to hide a heat pump to keep your garden looking its best!
There are three main types of heat pump:
Heat pumps use natural energy from the environment to provide heating and hot water for homes. They gather heat energy from the air, ground, or water nearby. This energy is then converted into usable heat for your house using electricity. They are a more energy efficient heating option compared to traditional gas boilers.
A heat pump moves the warmth from outside to inside using a special liquid. It absorbs heat, makes it hotter, then releases it where needed. By flipping a switch, it can heat your home using renewable energy, making an eco-friendly choice for heating and hot water.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, air source heat pump installation costs in the region of £14,000*. You can get support with the costs of heat pump installations through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) where you receive up to £7,500 grant support.
*estimated costs excludes any groundwork.
The physical size of your heat pump will depend on its kW size and model; however, they are likely much more compact than you’d imagine. The most common heat pump is an air source heat pump as they are suitable for a wide range of properties including terraced and semi-detached houses and flats.
For example, Vaillant’s aroTHERM plus heat pump is 1100mm wide and 450mm in depth, but ranges in height - from 765mm for the 3.5kW model to 1565mm for the 12kW model.
With different types and sizes of heat pump, knowing which to choose may be confusing. You will need to choose the correct size to meet your heating and hot water demands. Find out which heat pump is best for your home or contact your local installer who will be able to advise you.
If you have, or are considering, an air source heat pump, you may want to know how you can disguise or conceal them. Typically, heat pumps are installed close to your property as you need to run electricity to and pipes into your home. Depending on your property type, the heat pump might have to be installed in your garden.
Find out some of our favourite tips for disguising your air source heat pump so it doesn’t ruin the aesthetic of your garden.
One of the simplest and most natural ways to hide your heat pump is by strategically incorporating landscaping elements around it. Planting tall shrubs, bushes, or trees around the unit can create a natural screen, blocking it from view while adding greenery to your garden.
It’s essential to choose plants that won't obstruct airflow or access to the unit. Opt for low-maintenance, evergreen varieties that can thrive in your local climate and provide year-round coverage. If you notice any debris on your heat pump system, use a brush to remove any garden rubbish to prevent any blockages,
Vinyl wrap is a popular way to disguise a heat pump. They come in a range of patterns and colours so you’re likely to find something to suit your style – whether you want your heat pump to blend in or make it a piece of art! Watch one of our heat pump challenge winners, John, who wrapped his aroTHERM plus so it was in keeping with his Grade 2 listed barn version.
It's important to chat to your installer before doing this so they can advise you on the best option.
For a more tailored approach to concealing your heat pump, consider constructing a custom-built enclosure.
This option allows you to design a structure that blends with your outdoor space while providing complete coverage for your heat pump. Materials like wood, composite decking, or PVC panels can create a durable and weather-resistant enclosure. Consider adding features like louvered doors or hinged panels for easy access to the unit when needed. The correct speciation for such an enclosure must be considered to ensure correct operation of you heat pump.
Another effective way to hide your heat pump is by using outdoor screens or partitions. These versatile structures come in a variety of styles, materials, and sizes, allowing you to choose the perfect option for your garden!
Whether you prefer bamboo screens, fabric panels, or modular partitions, there are plenty of options to suit your aesthetic preferences and privacy needs. Place the screen strategically to block the view of the heat pump, while adding a decorative touch to your outdoor space.
