“Actions for a greener, healthier future!”
What are they all about?
Interest in heat pumps is soaring as the UK moves away from fossil fuels. The government currently offers a grant of £7,500 to swap a gas boiler for a heat pump. While air source pumps start at around £6,000 and ground source pumps at ~£10,000, these grants help bridge the price gap.
How do they work?
- Heat pumps move heat rather than creating it, similar to a fridge working in reverse.
- They use the expansion and contraction of a refrigerant to create a multiplier effect.
- For every unit of energy used to drive the pump, it returns 3 to 4 times that amount in heat.
- This process is significantly more efficient than fossil fuel boilers and much cleaner as grid electricity becomes more renewable.
Will it work for you?
- Heat Loss Survey: The essential first step to determine how much energy your home needs to stay comfortable.
- Insulation: While homes don’t need to be “super-insulated,” it is wise to ensure draughtproofing, loft insulation, and double-glazing are completed first.
- Operation: They send water to radiators at lower temperatures (45-50°C) compared to boilers (65-75°C). This results in a slower, steadier heat rather than “instant” heat.
- Night Use: They work best running slowly and steadily, including at night on a “setback” temperature.
- High-Temperature Options: Newer heat pumps can use higher temperature water for a simpler “swap-out” installation, though they may be less efficient than lower-temperature systems.
Do heat pumps save money?
- Combining an efficient pump with a discounted energy tariff can make them highly cost-effective.
- With the government grant and the right electricity tariff, some households could install a system for as little as £500 and save over £500 a year on bills.
- Proactive Planning: Don’t wait for your boiler to break in winter to research this technology; it is better to assess your needs while your current system is still working.
Where can you get more help?
- Get A Heat Pump: A platform by the MCS Foundation and Nesta providing tools, quizzes to find the right pump, and lists of certified installers. Visit getaheatpump.org.uk.
- Local Specialists: ECO Action Hub has worked with advisors including Christoph Grossbaier (Econic Energy), Leah Robson (Your Energy Your Way), and Toby Knight (JLL Building Consultancy).
- ECO Action Hub: Watch a video recording of our recent heat pump event at our website.
Date Published: 15/02/2024 | Updated: 17/10/2024 | Written by: Paul Conacher | Reviewed by: Graham Owens
Note: This factsheet provides information only and does not constitute advice. Always verify applicability to your circumstances before making decisions.