B2.7.2 Sensitively integrating air source heat pumps (ASHP’s)

ASHPs should be located so as to minimise their visual prominence, while still ensuring compliance with the noise limits set out in the Microgeneration Certification Scheme planning standards (MCS 020).

Air source heat pump units should be positioned on side or rear elevations wherever possible, avoiding principal façades or elevations that face a public street or highway. Rear gardens, enclosed service yards, or inner courtyards are generally preferred. Where an ASHP is located on an elevation which fronts onto the street, suitable screening (timber, low wall, evergreen planting) should be provided to minimise visibility (ensuring that such measures do not impede airflow or maintenance access).

If a proposed air source heat pump is located within a Conservation Area or associated with a heritage asset, it must be positioned on a facade that does not face a public street or highway. For floor-mounted units, the ASHP must be placed closer to the building than to the highway and be appropriately screened from view. Any screening must be designed to ensure adequate airflow to the ASHP is maintained.

Exception: If the principal facade of the building is at a right angle to the public street or highway consideration must be given to locating the ASHP on a secondary elevation, ideally still away from the public street or highway.

The colour of the ASHP should coordinate with the building palette. Where units are exposed, casings in neutral or muted tones (for example grey, brown, green) should be selected to blend with wall finishes or landscaping. Proposals should avoid white or metallic finishes on visible façades