If you’re considering switching to a heat pump from your current heating system, then there’s a lot to think about. They are growing in popularity across the UK, and for good reason, but how do you know if this system is one that could work for you and your home? After all, there are pros and cons to all heating systems, and a heat pump is a big investment. Luckily, they are suitable for most families, especially as the cost of living continues to rise and further demands are placed on our wallets.
What Is a Heat Pump?
Usually installed to replace a traditional heating system like a gas boiler, a heat pump works to heat (and sometimes cool) a building by transferring thermal energy from the air outside to inside or vice versa. These units are powered with electric energy, but the amount needed to complete their function is minimal, and so often homeowners who make the switch find themselves saving a lot on their energy bills compared to fully electric heating systems or storage heaters.
The Different Types of Pumps
Depending on your needs and preferences, there are a number of different units available on the market that might be suitable. Some of the most popular choices include ground source, air source and exhaust air heat pumps.
Ground source heat pumps
Ground source pumps work by transferring warmth to or from the ground and adapt to the changing temperatures of the earth below your home. Compared to air source heat pumps, ground based models can be more expensive to install, and so you might find that an air source pump works better if you’re on a tight budget.
Air source pumps
Popular choices among UK homeowners also include air source heat pumps, which work by absorbing heat from outside of a property before releasing it into the home using a water vapor compression refrigeration process. Compared to systems that provide air to internal spaces directly, these pumps are more efficient and have a lower impact on the climate.
Exhaust air heat pumps
A less common option available in the UK market is an exhaust air heat pump, which transfers heat already produced from the exhaust air of a building directly into the supply air or hot water system. It’s important to note that exhaust air pumps would be unsuitable for some properties, particularly flats that could suffer from over-ventilation.
How to choose the right unit for your home
There are a few things you need to take into account. The first is the climate where you live – if it’s cold, you’ll need a unit that can generate a lot of heat. The second is your home’s size – if it’s small, you’ll need a unit that’s small enough to fit. And the third is your budget – heat pumps can be expensive, but there are a few options available to fit any budget.
Once you’ve considered those factors, it’s time to start shopping around. There are a few different types of heat pumps available, so you’ll want to find one that meets your needs.
Be sure to get quotes from several different companies so that you can find the best deal. Once you’ve found the perfect heat pump for your home, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully so that you can install and operate it safely and efficiently.
What are the benefits?
In the winter, when it’s cold outside, your family will appreciate the warmth that a heat pump provides. They are a great way to heat your home without using fossil fuels, which means they don’t release any harmful emissions into the air. And unlike traditional systems, they don’t require a lot of maintenance.
If you’re thinking about installing it in your home, there are some things you need to consider. First of all, you’ll need to make sure that your home is properly insulated. A pump works best when the air inside your home is relatively warm. If your home is too cold, the unit will have to work harder to produce warmth , and you may end up paying more for your energy bills.
Another thing to keep in mind is that a heat pump can only provide warmth or cooling for a certain amount of space. If you have a large house, you may need more than one unit in order to keep all of the rooms warm or cool.
Switching to a heat pump is a big decision, but one that comes with a whole host of benefits, including:
- Lower energy costs due to the limited reliance on changing gas and oil prices.
- Increased sustainability that will future-proof your home.
- Higher energy efficiency thanks to the lower electricity usage compared to traditional heating.
- Government-led installation incentives that offer you up to £6000 off the cost and installation of a new heat pump.
How to properly maintain your unit for optimal performance
Proper maintenance is essential to keeping your unit running at its best. Here are some tips on how to keep your unit in good shape:
- Keep the filters clean. Dirty filters can cause your pump to work harder and reduce its efficiency. Be sure to replace the filters as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Inspect the coils and fins. If the coils or fins are dirty, they can impact the performance of your unit. Use a garden hose to spray them off and then use a soft brush to clean them properly.
- Check the refrigerant level. Low refrigerant levels can impact the performance of your pump. If you suspect that the refrigerant level is low, call a professional to have it checked out and corrected if necessary.
- Keep the area around your unit clear. Make sure there is plenty of space around your unit for air to circulate properly. Do not block the vents or louvers on the unit with anything like snow, leaves, or furniture.
- Schedule regular maintenance checks. Have a qualified technician check your heat pump regularly to ensure that it is working properly and performing at its best.
Getting a new heat pump might feel like a big decision to make, but once you make the switch you’ll never go back. Not only do heat pumps bring with them a raft of benefits, but they’re also the heating systems of the future – from government-backed initiatives to lower energy costs, there’s never been a better time to switch!
