Essential safety checks in your home

If your council home has an air source heat pump, we carry out an annual safety check to keep you, your family and your neighbours safe. These checks help make sure your system is working properly, efficiently and safely, and they can also help extend the life of your heat pump. This page explains what the check involves, what you need to do, and how to use your system well.

Who needs a safety check and why

All our homes with air source heat pumps receive a safety check every year. Regular checks help prevent faults, reduce breakdowns and make sure the system continues to heat your home and provide hot water as intended.

Who carries out the check

Only registered engineers can carry out air source heat pump safety checks. Our building services engineers are trained and qualified to work on these systems.

Always ask to see the engineer’s identification before letting them in. The card will show which appliances they are qualified to work on.

What happens during the safety check

During the visit, the engineer will:

• check the heat pump is working at the correct settings
• make sure there is proper ventilation around the unit
• check that safety devices are working as they should

How long the check takes

A safety check usually takes less than one hour.

You can help by:

• giving the engineer clear access to the heat pump and controls
• making sure there is enough credit on prepayment electricity meters

Your appointment

We will write to you in advance with an appointment date. If the appointment does not suit you, you must contact us to rearrange. This helps us keep you and others safe.

Using your air source heat pump

Air source heat pumps work best when used in a steady way.

Do

• leave the system running all the time, even overnight
• keep settings as set by the engineer
• turn bedroom temperatures down if needed
• use the suitcase button if you are away for a long period

Do not

• switch the system on and off
• dry clothes on radiators
• change settings unless you know what you are doing

If you are unsure about settings, speak to your housing officer.

Extra help and advice

If your heat pump was fitted recently, contact your energy supplier to update them.

For help with energy bills, contact the Money Matters Advice Service.

You can also view the air source heating pump user guide and video for step‑by‑step help.

Help us keep you safe

Please allow access for your annual safety check and contact us if you have concerns. Working together helps keep everyone safe.