Should I Leave My Air Source Heat Pump On All The Time?
The short answer? Yes, in most cases. But like everything with heat pumps, it's more nuanced than that. At Libtek, we've installed hundreds of heat pump systems across Hertfordshire and Oxfordshire, and we know exactly how to get the best performance from your system.
Why Heat Pumps Work Best When Left On
Unlike your old gas boiler that could blast heat quickly when needed, air source heat pumps are designed for steady, consistent operation. Think of it like the difference between sprinting and marathon running – heat pumps are marathon runners.
The Science Behind Constant Operation
Heat pumps work most efficiently when they maintain a steady temperature rather than constantly starting and stopping. Here's why:
Energy efficiency improves when your heat pump doesn't have to work extra hard bringing your home back up to temperature from cold
Less wear and tear on the system components means fewer breakdowns and longer equipment life
More consistent comfort throughout your home without the hot and cold spots you might remember from your old boiler
What "Always On" Actually Means
When we say leave it on "all the time," we don't mean it's constantly working and using electricity. Your heat pump will only draw power when it actually needs to heat your home.
Think of it like your fridge – it's always "on," but the compressor only runs when needed to maintain the right temperature.
The Libtek Approach: Smart Temperature Management
Set It and Forget It
Our recommendation: Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature (usually 19-21°C) and leave it there. Small adjustments of 1-2°C are fine, but avoid constantly changing temperatures.
Night-Time Settings
You can program slightly lower temperatures at night (2-3°C reduction) if you prefer cooler sleeping conditions. Your heat pump will gently adjust rather than shutting down completely.
Holiday Mode
Going away for more than 24 hours? Use your system's holiday or frost protection mode. This typically maintains around 15°C to prevent pipes freezing whilst saving energy.
When You Might Turn It Off (Rare Exceptions)
Based on our 20+ years' experience, there are very few situations where turning off your heat pump makes sense:
Extended holidays (over a week) in mild weather
Spring/summer months when heating isn't needed
Major system maintenance (we'll guide you through this)
Common Mistakes Hertfordshire Homeowners Make
Mistake 1: Treating It Like a Gas Boiler
Problem: Turning it on for a few hours in the morning and evening
Result: Higher bills and uncomfortable temperature swings
Libtek solution: Constant, gentle heating for efficiency and comfort
Mistake 2: Cranking Up the Temperature
Problem: Setting thermostat to 25°C expecting quick heat
Result: System works harder than necessary
Libtek solution: Patient temperature adjustment – wait 24 hours before making changes
Mistake 3: Turning Off Individual Radiators
Problem: Closing valves in unused rooms
Result: System imbalance and reduced efficiency
Libtek solution: Keep all radiators on but adjust thermostatic valves slightly if needed
How Much Does Running It "All The Time" Actually Cost?
Here's the reality: Running your heat pump constantly at steady state often costs less than turning it on and off, because:
No energy-intensive startup periods
More efficient operation at consistent temperatures
Better performance from the system overall
Real example from a Hertfordshire customer: Their old approach of heating twice daily cost £180/month. Switching to constant operation reduced bills to £145/month whilst improving comfort.
Maximising Efficiency with Libtek's Recommendations
Proper Installation Matters
Flow temperature optimisation: We set your system to run at the lowest effective temperature (typically 45-50°C)
Weather compensation: Automatically adjusts output based on outside temperature
System balancing: Ensures even heat distribution throughout your home
Regular Maintenance
Annual servicing keeps efficiency high and prevents the 25% cost increase that comes with poor maintenance
Filter checks every few months to maintain good airflow
Professional monitoring of system performance
Time-of-Use Tariffs: A Game Changer
Smart tip for savvy Hertfordshire homeowners: If you're on a time-of-use electricity tariff (like Economy 7), you can program your heat pump to do more heating during cheaper rate periods whilst maintaining comfort.
This doesn't mean turning it off and on – it means optimising when it works hardest.
Signs Your "Always On" Strategy Needs Adjustment
Call Libtek if you notice:
Heat pump running constantly but house never warm enough
Electricity bills significantly higher than expected
System frequently cycling on and off every few minutes
Uneven temperatures throughout your home
These usually indicate installation or setup issues, not problems with the "always on" approach.
Why Installation Quality Affects Your "Always On" Strategy
Poor installations can't run efficiently when left on constantly because:
Incorrect sizing means constant struggle to heat your home
Bad system design creates inefficient operation
Poor commissioning leads to incorrect settings
Libtek's quality installations are designed specifically for efficient constant operation with:
✅ Proper heat loss calculations for correct sizing
✅ Professional system design using hydronics expertise
✅ Comprehensive commissioning for optimal efficiency
✅ Clear guidance on best operation practices
The Bottom Line for Hertfordshire Homeowners
Leave your air source heat pump on all the time for:
Maximum efficiency and lowest running costs
Best comfort and consistent temperatures
Longest equipment life with minimal wear and tear
Trust Libtek's experience – we've perfected this approach across hundreds of installations in Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire, and North London.
Ready to Optimise Your Heat Pump Performance?
Whether you need a new installation designed for efficient operation or want to improve your existing system's performance, Libtek's 20+ years of expertise ensures you get maximum comfort for minimum cost.
Call us now on 07455 899 017 for honest advice about heat pump operation and efficiency. Alternatively, fill out our form here.
Remember: With up to £7,500 government grants available and 0% VAT until 2027, there's never been a better time to upgrade to a professionally installed heat pump system.
"These guys definitely know their stuff and saved me a lot of money and hassle." - Liam Drummond, Hertfordshire