If it’s time to upgrade your heating system, or your current boiler is on the brink, then you might be considering a heat pump replacement, especially if you’re worried about the rising cost of energy. But what are heat pumps, and why are they so useful? In this guide, we’ll be discussing exactly what heat pumps do, as well as comparing their efficiency to that of traditional boilers.
What Is a Heat Pump?
First things first, what exactly is a heat pump? A heat pump is designed to capture heat from the outside of your property and bring it into your home using electricity.
There are two key types of heat pump – ground source and air source.
Air source heat pumps are the most common type of heat pumps used in the UK. They work by absorbing the heat energy from air outside and using a heat exchanger to pump it into the property. Although the temperatures can drop in the winter, this won’t affect your heat pump, as there will still be enough air passing through the exchanger for your new system to work optimally.
Instead of using air from the environment outside, ground source heat pumps gather heat energy from the hot water circulating in pipes underground and pump it to a heat exchanger that is located inside your home.
Compared to a traditional boiler, which uses gas, oil or electricity to create heat, heat pumps offer an effective solution if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to heat your home.
Why Should I Get a Heat Pump?
If you’re wondering why heat pumps are growing increasingly popular, then you’re not alone. Many people don’t understand exactly why a heat pump is so beneficial, but there are a few key factors that can help you make your decision.
Reduced Energy Bills
As the cost-of-living rises, one of the best things you can do to cut back on your household bills is switch to a heat pump. You’ll be able to completely avoid the volatile price rises of gas and oil, which makes a heat pump the perfect alternative to a traditional boiler.
No More Fuel Deliveries
One of the biggest challenges faced by those on oil or LPG fuel sources is the regular fuel deliveries that these heating systems rely on. If you’re currently using one of these sources, you can wave goodbye to those deliveries for good when you make the switch to a heat pump!
Government Support Is Available
If you’re thinking of making the switch, then you might be surprised to discover that extensive government support is available to residents of England and Wales who are choosing a heat pump for their next heating system.
Under the government’s £450 million Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you can claim up to £6000 off the cost and installation of a new heat pump.
Heat Pumps vs. Traditional Boilers – What’s More Efficient?
Overall, you’ll find that your new heat pump is significantly more efficient than your previous heating system if you’ve been using a traditional boiler. Not only is the electricity they use cleaner, but they also take their temperature from the air or ground in its natural state before heating it through an exchange. This means that not only will your carbon footprint be reduced, but your home will be exponentially more efficient overall.
As we navigate turbulent times that see energy prices rising month on month, switching to a heat pump has never been more beneficial. As long as you thoroughly research the type of model that will work best for you and choose a reputable supplier, you’ll be well on your way to an efficient, cost-effective heating system that makes your home cosy on a budget.
