There are still many myths surrounding Heat Pumps that might be holding some people back from making the switch. Here are some of the most common misconceptions about heat pumps.
Heat pumps are often misunderstood to be noisy, but they produce noise similar to a dishwasher and are typically located outside, reducing indoor disturbance. E.g. A library background noise is 45decibels – heat pumps average at 40decibels Modern designs operate quietly within permitted noise levels for residential areas.
Heat pumps require space for installation, limiting options for flats and terraced houses. Terraced houses can accommodate heat pumps on walls or in garden areas. Flats may face challenges due to limited outdoor space, but communal heat pumps or alternative low-carbon heating systems can be considered. Industry faces challenges in making homes heat pump-ready
Heat pumps typically heat water to around 50 degrees, considered hot. Shower temperature is 38 degrees! The size of the water cylinder is chosen based on home size and occupants to ensure hot water on demand.
Heat pumps are often misunderstood to stop working in extremely cold weather, but they can operate efficiently even in temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius. This misconception is debunked by the fact that heat pumps are commonly used in colder regions like Scandinavia.
Heat pumps have an average cost of around £3,500 ( £11,000 less £7,500 government grant) similar costs to a gas boiler installation. As low carbon heating becomes more popular and installation processes improve, the cost of heat pump installation is expected to decrease further.
Comparing heat pump maintenance to that of a gas boiler, both require annual servicing. However, the maintenance for heat pumps is similar to gas boilers. While gas boiler servicing primarily focuses on safety, particularly to prevent carbon monoxide exposure, heat pump servicing emphasises efficiency to help reduce energy costs.
Heat pumps can be installed in any home regardless of age, size, or insulation quality. The installation is based on the property’s heat loss rather than its age. Upgrades to radiators or pipework may be necessary for optimal heat pump performance
Heat pumps can be cost-effective if well-installed, despite electricity being more expensive than gas. Current cost of gas os 8p kw and electricity 25p kw Therefore, to be on a level playing field the heat pump needs to be 300% efficient.
Energy Saving Trust/Ofgems recent performance review in the field stated heat pumps are on average 270% efficient. However, our “open loop” design has been proven at 350 – 500% efficient.
Both heat pumps and boilers cost more to run in a poorly-insulated home. Therefore, upgrading insulation can reduce the size and cost of a heat pump, and will then be cheaper to run. Some radiators may need upgrading to match the lower heat output of heat pumps.
Newer high-temperature heat pumps may work with existing radiators, reducing the need for replacements, however, operating at higher temperatures will have higher running costs.
A heat pump operates when there’s a need for heating and hot water, but it doesn’t have to be on all the time. They are designed to run at a lower output for a longer duration than gas boilers. Heat pumps provide consistent heat throughout the day, unlike the fluctuating temperature with gas boilers. Smart controls on heat pumps adjust automatically to outdoor temperature changes, and you can manage them via a mobile app.
Ultimate Renewables Supplies
Unit E2, Telford Road, Bicester, Oxfordshire, OX26 4LD
01869 929042 | info@ultimaterenewables.com
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