Carrier Solutions UK has expressed support for the UK Government's recent decision to extend the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) to include air-to-air heat pumps.
This policy change is expected to significantly impact the residential air-conditioning market in the UK. Part of Carrier Global Corporation, Carrier Solutions UK Ltd offers expertise in climate and energy solutions and views this development as critical to advancing residential air-conditioning options in the country.
Expansion of Residential Air-Conditioning Options
Households across the UK will now be eligible for grant support for air-to-air heat pumps for the first time
Households across the UK will now be eligible for grant support for air-to-air heat pumps for the first time. These systems, already popular in other countries, provide efficient comfort year-round.
The inclusion of air-to-air heat pumps in the BUS redefines them as high-performance heating solutions rather than merely cooling units.
“This update has the potential to kick-start a new residential air-conditioning market in the UK,” said David Dunn, Managing Director for the UK & Ireland at Carrier CSE-R Europe.
Benefits for Diverse Housing Types
Recognizing air-to-air systems under the BUS is particularly beneficial for apartment and flat dwellers who previously faced challenges with traditional air-to-water heat pumps. These properties often rely on inefficient direct-electric or storage heating. Multi-split air-to-air systems offer a more practical upgrade by enabling a single outdoor unit to manage multiple indoor units.
David Dunn added, “Much of the UK housing stock needs solutions beyond conventional heat-pump configurations. Air-to-air systems, along with emerging electric technologies, offer flexibility and efficiency where other approaches may not be suitable.”
Acknowledging Broader Heating Solutions
Carrier Solutions UK distributes the Toshiba air-conditioning product line, suitable for both residential and light commercial applications, including single-split and multi-split systems.
Dunn highlighted Toshiba's established presence in domestic air-conditioning, emphasizing that brand familiarity will be influential as this market expands. The focus on aesthetics, smart controls, and system flexibility is anticipated to guide consumer decisions further.
In preparation for the anticipated changes in product listing requirements and certification processes, Carrier is aligning with the transition towards the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) as the standard for clean-heat schemes. The company remains committed to supporting installation professionals through its training centers located in London Colney and Stockport.
