Residential, (home) systems are becoming more popular as people appreciate the benefits of modern heat pump systems and the increased comfort particularly during our quite humid summer nights. Remember, air conditioning is not just cooling, in the UK one of the major benefits is that it can reduce the humidity as well as lower temperature.

Do not confuse this with a de-humidifier, although similar principles are used to reduce humidity, a de-humidifier actually increases temperature. However, with a domestic heat pump you can not only cool, but heat as well and even use as a de-humidifier.

There are many options for home systems, at the most basic level this would be a portable or mobile air conditioner. But the drawbacks are that they are relatively expensive on a cooling per £ basis. Are awkward and heavy to lift up stairs and may pose a security issue unless they are fully fitted. Their operating noise and method of installation/siting can also be intrusive, so consider them more as a temporary solution for most applications.

Although window or through wall mounted units can be used, they are not ideal for UK use and generally will involve planning issues to install and are noisy in operation. They are ideally suited as cheap solutions in very hot climates.

Split systems form the bulk of new systems being installed in UK houses and apartments. Some new and refurbished houses and apartments are now heated mainly by heat pumps which then provides summer cooling and control of high humidity as and when required.

Apart from entire systems, suitable applications are house extensions, conservatories, main living and bedrooms. Conservatories are ideal applications - no need to increase the boiler size or extend the heating system. Use a heat pump split system, it will economically heat in winter and keep you cool in summer. Although heat pumps use electricity they are much cheaper to run than electric heaters, as much as 3 or 4 times cheaper!

You can also have ducted systems and there are a number of niche systems in the market. They may suit some applications, but not all so ask us about these and we can advise in more detail.