0333 444 1062
Air Source Heat Pumps are becoming widely used throughout homes in Britain as the energy prices continue to soar and people become aware of the multiple benefits they can offer. This blog discusses heat pumps, how they help to save you money and the benefits they offer. We will also discuss how to choose the right heat pump and some of our frequently asked questions regarding this system.
So, what is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An Air Source Heat Pump is a heating system which transfers heat from the outside air into water, which heats your rooms via radiators or other heating measures. They work in the opposite way as an air conditioner, using what is known as K gas to extract warmth from the air (even down to temperatures as low as -15°C), transfer that into a liquid which is then fed into the property to provide not only heating, but [if required] hot water as well.
Air Source Heat Pumps are thought to be the future of heating for domestic properties, due to their renewable technology.
How much do they cost?
An Air Source Heat Pump installation can cost thousands. Generally, you can expect to pay between £4,000 and £8,000 (according to EDF Energy) for the heat pump itself, with installation costs on top of that bringing the total to around £5,000-£10,000. However, if you are eligible for ECO 4 funding you are not charged for any purchasing or installation costs for an Air Source Heat Pump. Check your eligibility for Eco 4 Funding here https://www.ecohomeinsulation.co.uk/eligibility/
Benefits?
- Most gas combi boilers work on a 1:1 ratio, which means that for every kilowatt of gas energy in, you get a kilowatt of heat energy out. Air source heat pumps usually operate at an average ratio of 1:3 – which is efficient!
- Air Source Heat Pumps provide heating, but they can also provide hot water as well. This is done via the installation of a modern, insulated cylinder which indirectly heats the water from the water store then distributes it to rooms as required.
- Work in extremely low temperatures – up to -15°C!
- Air Source Heat Pump systems help you to reduce your energy bills significantly.
How can a heat pump save you money on your energy bills
There are multiple ways in which a heat pump can save you money. Firstly, due to heat pumps being powered by electricity, they’re more efficient than gas or oil boilers, meaning you won’t be held to increasing gas and oil prices. Secondly, heat pumps are low in maintenance, meaning there is no regular servicing or repairs required – keeping costs down! Lastly, heat pumps not only heat up your home but can cool it down during warmer months. The initial purchase of an Air Source Heat Pump [should you not be eligible for ECO 4 Funding] will likely cost you more than a traditional boiler.
However, over time you will likely see an increased saving on your energy bills. Boilers are slowly being phased out, with renewable technology coming to the forefront of heating systems throughout UK homes. Plus, now with their steady decrease in price and numerous environmental benefits, there is no better time to switch to an Air Source Heat Pump. Especially as there are now grants available towards installing a heat pump under the Government’s ECO 4 Scheme, meaning that initial investment can be as low as £0!
Why do I need Air Source Heat Pumps?
With the current cost of living crisis disrupting the nation and cooler winter nights fast approaching people throughout the UK are looking for ways to keep their homes well insulated whilst keeping costs down. However, not many people know that you can now apply to have Air Source Heat Pumps installed to your home for free via the ECO 4 grant. This grant has been set up by the Government with the aim to reduce the UK’s carbon emissions, number of households in fuel poverty and is available to people in low income, fuel poor or vulnerable households.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do Air Source Heat Pumps last?
Typically, you can expect to get 15 years out of an Air Source Heat Pump. However, some of the highest quality pumps can last up for 50+ years.
What’s an alternative to a heat pump?
The main alternatives to Air Source Heat Pumps that we see are boilers and furnaces. Boilers heat water which is then pumped around your home to heat radiators etc. Furnaces however work by heating air and circulating it throughout your home via a fan system.
What possible drawbacks are there to getting a heat pump?
Other than the initial costs [should you be ineligible for ECO 4 funding] the main side effect to an Air Source Heat Pump system is that they are typically more effective in a warmer climate, as in cooler temperatures they can struggle to maintain a suitable temperature in your home.
What are the benefits of a heat pump when used with solar electricity?
If you already have solar panels installed to your home, a heat pump can make use of the free electricity generated to heat your home. This allows for further reductions to your energy bills and carbon footprint.
If you do not have solar panels installed, this is another measure available via the ECO 4 Scheme meaning you may be entitled to both systems being installed for FREE to your home. To check your eligibility, click here https://www.ecohomeinsulation.co.uk/eligibility/
How can we help?
There are many factors to consider before fitting any Heating Source to your home, which is why at Eco Home Insulation we send our trusted surveyors out to your home before any measures are installed. We will advise on the best measures for your home and talk you through the process before any installation begins.
Our role involves:
- Checking your eligibility for funding.
- Sending our trusted surveyors out to your home to see what measures are required.
- Accessing the funding from the Government for these measures on your behalf.
- Installing the necessary insulation or heating systems.
- Helping with any maintenance needed after.
If you have any questions on the types of services discussed in this letter or want to know whether you qualify for funding, please contact us today and one of our team would be happy to talk you through your options.
For any questions or queries on our services or grants please call 0333 444 1062.