Heat pumps are a great step in the right direction for a property that wants to become energy efficient. Having said that, suitability variables should considered when having a heat pump installed.
This article will explore the suitability factors for installing a heat pump and what can be done to make the transition to a heat pump easy.
We will also take a look at a recent heat pump installation from Free Heating Scheme and how it has impacted the lives of a family in Wales.
Considering Your Heat Pump: Change to a Way of Life
A recent successful installation by Free Heating Scheme has been ‘a change to a way of life’ for Annmaria & Tony who have had a heat pump installed in their home.
From Wales, Annmaria and Tony decided to apply for ECO4 to replace their traditional method of burning wood and coal to heat their home and provide it with hot water. Some days, due to hazardous wind conditions, their fire could not be lit, therefore they would have to suffer from a cold home.
The introduction of a heat pump, for them, has been a source of newfound joy with Tony declaring that it has changed their lives.
What Impacts A Heat Pumps Suitability?
Extremely Cold Properties
Heat pumps will tend to struggle to warm the home if the property regularly suffers from really cold temperatures.
Having said that, the addition of another heating system, such as a furnace, can help.
The addition of new radiators as part of the heat pump installation will also have a positive impact on the amount of heat it produces for the home.
Annmarie states that having a heat pump has provided them with ‘instant heat’ in the mornings and throughout the day.
Limited Exterior Space
Larger heat pumps require more space in your garden, meaning sometimes finding the perfect spot for the unit can be difficult.
However, the required size heat pump can be determined by the size of your outside area. Even if you lack any outside space, there will be a heat pump available for you.
Annmarie particular heat pump model is ‘compact enough’ to fit in her small garden and she thinks that even if you didn’t have a garden but rather a yard it would be ok.
Old Homes with Poor Insulation
Heat pumps work best paired with good insulation and without it, heat generated will be quickly lost.
Property insulation can be acquired through government-backed schemes like the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) or the ECO4 Scheme.
Annamarie and Tony had insulation installed around the same time they had their heat pump installed which has greatly contributed to the impact of the heat pump.
High Electricity Bills
Heat pumps use a significant amount of electricity to generate the heat required for your home.
This means that your electricity bill can see a hike in price. Remember though, gas prices are constantly rising and eventually, homes will be paying more for it and less for electricity, if current projections come to pass.
The installation of solar panels and a battery storage system greatly improves the amount of electricity you use and the amount you are spending on bills.
Not long after the installation of their heat pump, customers Annemarie and Tony had solar panels installed claiming that the process was quick and easy; ‘the solar panels were put on the same time, in the same week and the electrician came and wired it all up.’
Climate Conditions
Annmarie praised the change to her heating system during harsh weather conditions; ‘It’s just marvellous. When we had snow, the nice thing is you’ve got the control, and you can turn it up and down. And as soon as you turn it up, it’s instantly hotter.’
Heat pump suitability is more or less perfect for the UK; they can operate down to temperatures of –15*C
Though your heat pump may have to work harder in colder weather, there should be no concerns about heat being provided for your home.
Grants to Consider
Several government-backed grants are available, making the transition to a heat pump easier than ever before!
ECO4
This scheme has evolved with each iteration, widening the eligibility criteria each time, and making it easier for more homes to have access to free renewable energy improvements. Under the scheme, heat pumps, insulation, and solar can all be received for free!
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
With BUS, you could gain help towards a renewable energy boiler in the form of a voucher scheme. Although this scheme would see you having to contribute to the total cost, the amount your voucher holds would be £7,500.
Conclusion
Heat pumps are the best and most energy-efficient way to heat your home, but it must be noted that there are some factors to consider when deciding to get one.
You need to think about your local climate, yard space, insulation, and electricity costs. Heat pumps can always be accommodating to any circumstances.
Talking to a professional HVAC technician can help you decide if a heat pump is right for your home.