The truth about heat pumps - let’s clear the air.
Welcome to the world of air source heat pumps! We love sharing the lowdown on how these nifty devices can warm your home and your heart. Let’s cut through the fog of myths and misconceptions, and give you the clear, candid facts about heat pumps. Let's tackle some common heat pump myths head-on and get to the heat of the matter.
High upfront costs.
Let’s get this out of the way: yes, air source heat pumps (ASHPs) have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional heating systems. But here’s the kicker – think of it as an investment in your future. Like buying a quality mattress or a reliable car, you’re paying for comfort, longevity, and potential savings down the line. Plus, there are grants to help lighten the load.
Heat pump grants.
Good news! The UK government offers grants to support your switch to greener energy. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme,¹ for example, can give you a nice financial boost of £7,500 towards the cost of installing an ASHP. This helps make the initial investment a bit easier to swallow. We’re talking real savings that make a difference.
2 The Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme is valid for heat pumps that are commissioned from 1 April 2022. To be eligible for the grant, a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) from the last 10 years. Unfortunately new build homes are ineligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Owner and property eligibility apply. To see the full eligibility criteria and exclusions, visit the Government Boiler Upgrade Scheme website.
Not many heat pump installers.
While it might seem like heat pump installers are a rare breed, they’re not as elusive as you might think. We’re proud to be an MCS Certified installer, meaning we’ve met the high standards set by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme. We’re growing the number of skilled engineers through our Net Zero Academy, ensuring you get top-notch service from knowledgeable professionals.
High running costs.
Here's a myth that needs busting: heat pumps don't have to cost an arm and a leg to run. In fact, with their impressive efficiency, and depending on your house and energy needs, they can be cheaper to operate than some gas boilers. Plus, as energy prices fluctuate, heat pumps can offer more predictable and stable heating costs. So, don’t let the myth of high running costs deter you – the numbers are on your side! And if you pair it with solar panels and battery storage, you could run your heat pump from energy you generate.
Do air source heat pumps work in winter?
Worried about staying warm on chilly winter days? No need! Heat pumps work their magic even when temperatures dip below freezing. They extract heat from the air, even in cold weather, and keep your home toasty all season long. So snuggle up and enjoy the warmth!
Why is an air source heat pump expensive to run?
It’s a common misconception that ASHPs are expensive to run. The truth? They’re quite economical. While your electricity bill might see a slight increase, your gas bill will plummet, or disappear if you no longer use gas in your home. In the end, the overall running costs are typically lower, and you’re making a positive impact on the environment.
Do air source heat pumps work in winter?
Worried about staying warm on chilly winter days? No need! Heat pumps work their magic even when temperatures dip below freezing. They extract heat from the air, even in cold weather, and keep your home toasty all season long. So snuggle up and enjoy the warmth!
Why is an air source heat pump expensive to run?
It’s a common misconception that ASHPs are expensive to run. The truth? They’re quite economical. While your electricity bill might see a slight increase, your gas bill will plummet. In the end, the overall running costs are typically lower, and you’re making a positive impact on the environment.
Are heat pumps noisy?
Worried about noise? Fear not! Most modern ASHPs are designed to operate quietly. The noise level depends on the kilowatt (kW) output, but generally, they’re no louder than a typical fridge. So, peace and quiet are still very much on the menu.
Do air source heat pumps provide hot water?
Heat pumps can handle both your heating and hot water needs, keeping you comfy all year round. They can heat water to a high temperature, ensuring a hot shower even on the coldest days. So go ahead, indulge in that long, relaxing soak.
Switching to an air source heat pump won't save me money.
Think again! While the upfront cost might be higher, heat pumps are designed to save you money in the long run. Their energy efficiency could significantly reduce your heating bills. Plus, they have a long lifespan, so you can enjoy those savings for years to come.
Do air source heat pumps cost a lot of money to run?
Running an ASHP is generally more cost-effective than traditional heating systems like LPG and oil. While there’s a shift from gas to electricity, the overall efficiency of heat pumps means you’ll likely see a reduction in your energy bills over time. So, it’s not just about switching your energy source – it’s about smart savings.
My electricity bill will go up. Yes, but…
Yes, your electricity bill will go up, but here’s the silver lining: your gas bill will go down significantly. In fact, if your home is fully electric, you won’t have a gas bill at all! Adding solar panels to your home will help you generate electricity and be even less reliant on the grid.
Do heat pumps work with radiators?
Worried about compatibility? Don’t be. ASHPs work perfectly well with radiators. In many cases, you can use your existing radiators, although sometimes upgrading to larger ones can enhance efficiency. It’s all about getting the best performance from your heating system.
Heat pump lifespan is not long.
Another myth busted! ASHPs have a long lifespan, often around 20 years or more with proper servicing and maintenance. That’s a lot of warm winters and cosy evenings. Regular check-ups and a bit of TLC keep your heat pump running smoothly for decades.
ASHPs require high maintenance.
Good news for those who dread maintenance chores: ASHPs are relatively low maintenance. With proper care and annual servicing, a heat pump can last 20 years or more. That's double the lifespan of a typical boiler!
Plus, with fewer moving parts than traditional heating systems, they’re less prone to breakdowns. A yearly service check is usually enough to keep things running efficiently.
Heat pumps are no good for older houses.
Some older homes may not be ideally suited for heat pumps, but many are. We always recommend doing what you can to ensure your home is well insulated. We can assess your property and provide tailored recommendations for maximising your heat pump's efficiency.
Mortgage companies are reluctant to finance houses with ASHP because of damp.
There’s a lot of chatter about mortgage companies and ASHPs, but let’s clear the air. The real concern often lies with poorly installed insulation, not the heat pumps themselves. We have a solid track record with insulation projects, ensuring quality installations that avoid these issues. It’s always wise to check with your lender, but well-installed ASHPs shouldn’t be a deal-breaker.
All new builds in Scotland as of March 2024 are to have ASHPs rather than boilers. Not quite!
Scotland is leading the charge towards greener heating tech. As of March 2024, new builds won’t be using direct emission heating systems like oil and gas boilers. This means more heat pumps and district heating systems. It’s a big step forward in reducing our carbon footprint and embracing renewable energy sources.
ASHPs are expensive to install and to run through the winter.
Before installing an ASHP, we use Microgeneration Certification Scheme methodologies to model the expected energy consumption. This means you’ll have a clear idea of what to expect in terms of costs. Currently, ASHPs are only slightly more expensive to run than A-rated boilers, and this gap is narrowing as energy prices evolve. Transparency is key, and we ensure you have all the information you need before making a decision.
What about badly installed ASHPs?
Quality installation is crucial, and we pride ourselves on our expertise and adherence to the highest standards. Our engineers are well-trained, and our installations meet stringent MCS guidelines. Poor installations can cause issues, but with us, you’re in safe hands.
What about the lack of engineers with heat pump knowledge?
We’re committed to expanding the pool of skilled heat pump engineers. Our Net Zero Academy is a testament to this commitment, providing top-notch training and growing the expertise needed to support the transition to greener energy. We’re building a future where skilled engineers are readily available to meet the growing demand for heat pumps.
The bottom line.
Air source heat pumps are a fantastic, sustainable option for heating your home. They’re efficient, cost-effective, and better for the planet. Sure, there are myths and misconceptions out there, but we’re here to set the record straight. With us, you get honesty, quality, and support every step of the way. Ready to make the switch? Let’s take this journey together and embrace a greener, warmer future.
For more information, reach out to us at E.ON Next, and let’s chat about how we can help you transition to an air source heat pump. We’re here for you, every step of the way.
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