Kensa Heat Pump Trade-In and Recycling Programmes (2026)

Kensa is a GB heat pump manufacturer. This page reviews their recycling and sustainability approach at end-of-life.

People often search for "apple trade in" when looking for recycling options. Here's what you need to know.

Last reviewed by James Hartley on 24 March 2026

How recyclable are Kensa's heat pumps, and what should you do when it's time to dispose of one?

Kensa Heat Pumps, based in Cornwall, UK, is the country's sole manufacturer of ground source heat pump systems. Known for their R-410A refrigerant, these units play a important role in sustainable heating but come with specific end-of-life considerations due to environmental regulations.

According to the European Parliament, less than 1% of rare earth elements in e-waste are currently recycled.

First off, let's talk about why the type of refrigerant matters. Kensa uses R-410A because it has an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of zero, making it friendlier to the environment than older refrigerants like R-22. However, under EU F-gas regulations, even though R-410A doesn't harm the ozone layer, its high global warming potential (GWP) means strict disposal requirements apply.

Refrigerant recovery is a must before you do anything else with your Kensa heat pump. This step can't be skipped because it's illegal and harmful to the environment if not done correctly. A certified technician must recover and properly dispose of any remaining refrigerant according to regulations like WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) and EU F-gas.

Now, what exactly makes up a Kensa heat pump: Kensa includes components like compressors, circuit boards, fans, copper tubing, aluminium fins, and steel casings. Copper and aluminium are prized for their recyclability, while the steel is also highly recyclable but typically ends up in scrap metal yards.

According to the WHO, e-waste contains over 1,000 different substances, many of them toxic.

The typical lifespan of a ground source heat pump made by Kensa can be upwards of 20 years-quite impressive compared to many other heating systems out there. When it's time to replace your old gas boiler or traditional heating system, don't just throw the old one away! Proper recycling and disposal are necessary for both environmental reasons and legal compliance.

So, how does Kensa fare in terms of making their products easy to recycle? While they have a strong focus on sustainability during manufacturing and use phases. There's room for improvement when it comes to take-back programmes. Unlike some competitors who offer clear end-of-life plans or recycling schemes, Kensa doesn't publicly advertise one.

In comparison, companies like Daikin and Mitsubishi Electric both have established recycling initiatives and take-back programmes that simplify the disposal process for their customers. While these may be more focused on air conditioning units rather than ground source heat pumps, they provide a benchmark for what an effective end-of-life solution looks like.

According to the UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024, only 22.3% of e-waste was properly collected and recycled in 2022.

For consumers looking to responsibly dispose of a Kensa heat pump, here's some practical advice: contact your local authorised treatment facilities (ATF) that handle WEEE items. These places can ensure the refrigerant is recovered and disposed of safely, and they'll recycle as much material as possible from your old unit.

According to figures from the European Commission, around 10 million tonnes of electrical waste are generated annually in Europe alone. With numbers like these, it's clear that proper disposal isn't just a matter of personal responsibility but contributes significantly to overall environmental health.

In summary, while Kensa excels in manufacturing sustainable heat pumps, they could do more to support their customers when it comes time for end-of-life recycling. By using existing ATF services and adhering strictly to regulations like WEEE and EU F-gas, you can help ensure your old heat pump is disposed of responsibly.

For a hassle-free experience, consider reaching out to Kensa directly or joining forces with community groups focused on sustainable practices. With the right approach, disposing of your Kensa heat pump doesn't have to be daunting-it's just another step in making sure we all do our part for the planet.

Sources

• European Parliament
• WHO
• UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024

How to Cite This Page

James Hartley (2026). 'Kensa'. eCycling Central. Available at: https://ecyclingcentral.com/brands/kensa (Accessed: 24 March 2026).