Heat pumps seem to have a bad reputation…and sometimes for things that aren’t necessarily true. Unfortunately, these common heat pump myths could be preventing many UK householders from having them installed into their homes.
With only 26 years left to reach the UK 2050 Net Zero target, millions of UK householders still need to switch over to low-carbon heating systems. To help reach this goal, new laws have been introduced stating that gas boilers will no longer be installed into new homes from 2025. Air source heat pumps will be one of the options offered instead.
But it’s not only newer properties that can benefit from heat pumps. They also make an excellent green alternative to the gas-guzzling boilers already installed in our current and older properties.
Heat pumps can generate 3.5kWs of heat from 1 kW of energy. Compare this to a current A-rated combi boiler which is only estimated to convert the same amount of energy into 0.9 kWs of heat. Heat pumps actually perform 3 times better than traditional heating systems.
With still so many UK householders unsure about trading in their old boilers for heat pumps, we’re going to try to clear up some of the confusion surrounding these potential climate saviours.
Are they noisy?
Probably one of the most common heat pump myths is that they’re noisy. While it’s true that they do emit some noise, it is only around 40 decibels. Which is about the same volume as your fridge. And when installed outside your property, the noise will be reduced even further.
If you’re concerned that this will impact next door’s property instead – don’t worry! Your installer will ensure that any noise levels measure 42 decibels or less halfway between your pump and any nearby properties – avoiding any neighbourly conflicts.
In colder temperatures, pumps may be louder because the system has to work harder. However, this typically occurs only when temperatures drop below 0C. If heat pumps are noisy at any other times, it may be possible that they have been installed incorrectly.
Are they expensive?
Installation can be costly, but there are Government grants available that will cover the cost of this – making it completely FREE for you. Check here for eligibility.
Although pumps consume electricity, they will generate more heat than the energy they use to run. When designed well, a heating pump system will work much more efficiently than any current gas and oil boilers, or storage heaters.
Your overall heating costs could also decrease after installation. This is especially true if your new system allows you to run your radiators at lower temperatures and all heating controls are set correctly and efficiently.
Will they work well in winter?
Another common heat pump myth is that they don’t work well in cold weather. They can actually work very efficiently in temperatures as low as –15. In Sweden and Norway where winters are much colder than in the UK, heat pumps are popular and widely used in households. Compare this to the average winter temperatures of 0C in Scotland and it’s clear that heat pumps are an excellent way to heat UK homes, even through the coldest months.
Can they be installed into older properties?
Almost a quarter of people think that heat pumps can only be installed into new builds – another one of the most common heat pump myths. In fact, they can be placed in old buildings too. Even in draughty ones like churches and stately homes. However, if your home is listed or in a protected area, you may have to get permission for any changes.
It’s also worth checking the places in your home where you could be unintentionally losing heat, such as through open chimney flues. If you no longer use the fire, blocking the flue could keep more heat inside your property.
Although not essential, we advise insulating older properties to get the maximum benefit from heat pumps. Energy efficient homes can save more energy and money as they are able to use smaller, cooler pumps.
Making sure cavity walls are filled and lofts are well lined will protect against unexpected heat loss. It is possible to have your house fully insulated FOR FREE through current Government schemes. Check here for eligibility criteria.
Will they work with older radiators?
You can use your current radiators, however, some may need to be replaced for larger ones. The reason for this is that heat pumps perform better with a larger surface area. Pumps also work really well with underfloor heating for the same reason. If you don’t want to change your radiators, you could consider installing a high temperature heat pump instead.
Will my radiators be hot enough?
Before installing, a survey will be completed to design a system that maintains your desired room temperature. However, heat pumps run at lower temperatures than regular boilers, so it may take longer for rooms to reach temperature from cold. Radiator surfaces may also seem cooler to touch than before – but your rooms will remain just as warm.
Heat pump systems are designed according to conditions specified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme. All our recommended installers are regulated against this.
Do heat pumps need to be installed next to my home?
For maximum efficiency, heat pumps should be installed close to your property. This will reduce the amount of piping required to connect them to your home. However, they can be installed up to 20 metres away from a perimeter wall and they will still work efficiently.
Are they difficult to use?
The controller is similar to those used by boilers. These are usually simple to use and once set; the required temperatures and timings will run automatically. Your installer can show you how to do this at installation.
If they break, are they hard to fix?
Heat pumps are more reliable and last longer than gas boilers. But, just as with all heating systems, they do require regular check-ups and services from a qualified heat pump engineer. If there are any issues, this is more likely to be connected to poor or incorrect installation rather than problems with the technology itself.
Do I need a backup heating system?
Heat pumps can be less efficient in extremely cold temperatures but they do not usually need a back up heating system if they have been size appropriately to the property.
We hope that by clearing up some of the most common myths and misconceptions about heat pumps, more people will now be encouraged to make the switch for a cleaner climate for all. For more information on heat pumps and the government grants that may be available to you, click the button below.