Your complete guide to heat pumps

Heat pumps are becoming more and more popular across the UK as an alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems. But what are they? Are they efficient? And how much can they help you save?

In this guide, we’ll talk through everything you need to know about heat pumps. No matter which type of heat pump you’re looking at, by the end of this, you’ll have the information you need to make a confident choice about your home’s heating system. Let’s get into it.

Key Takeaways

• What are the types of heat pumps?
• Why should I install a heat pump?
• Is there anything else to keep in mind?
• What are the costs and savings of heat pumps?
• Is there funding available for heat pumps?

What are the types of heat pumps?

Heat pumps efficiently control your home’s temperature by transferring heat instead of generating it from scratch. What does this mean for you? Lower energy bills (depending on your current fuel and usage) and a smaller carbon footprint. Let’s take a look at the two main types of heat pumps.

Air source heat pumps

Air source heat pumps transfer heat from the outside air into your home. It can also work in reverse, removing heat from your home to cool it down, similar to how an air conditioner works.

Ground source heat pumps

Ground source heat pumps use the ground’s relatively constant temperature to heat and cool your home. Pipes are buried in the ground, and fluid in these pipes absorbs the ground’s heat to warm your home in the winter.

In the summer, the system can reverse, removing heat from your home and transferring it to the ground to cool it.

Why should I install a heat pump?

There’s a whole range of reasons why installing a heat pump could be the perfect solution for your home:

Energy efficiency

Heat pumps can deliver about three times more energy than they consume by transferring thermal energy instead of generating it through combustion, making them extremely energy-efficient.

Reduced energy bills

By replacing conventional heating systems, heat pumps can significantly lower your heating bills.

Versatility

They serve dual purposes—acting as an air conditioner in summer and a central heating system in winter.

Environmental impact

Heat pumps burn no fossil fuels, which means you’ll generate less carbon emissions and do your bit for the planet.

Is there anything else to keep in mind?

If you’re considering a heat pump for your property, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

Upfront cost

The initial investment for heat pump installations can be higher than that for traditional systems. However, long-term savings on energy bills can offset these costs, depending on your current fuel type and usage.

Available space

The effectiveness of a heat pump installation can depend on the site, especially for ground source heat pumps, which require more space.

Performance in extreme cold

While technology has improved, extreme cold climates can challenge the efficiency of air-source heat pumps. In the UK, however, this tends not to be a problem.

What are the costs and savings of heat pumps?

Upfront cost – Installation costs vary depending on the type of heat pump. Ground source heat pumps generally have higher initial costs due to the excavation required, but they offer lower operational costs in the long run.

Energy bills – Thanks to their high efficiency, switching to heat pumps can significantly reduce your energy bills. The exact savings depend on your current system, the type of heat pump installed, and your home’s insulation.

Is there funding available for heat pumps?

Yes, there is funding available for heat pumps under the government-backed ECO4 Scheme! Set up to help vulnerable households cope with rising energy costs, these grants can cover up to 100% of the cost of energy-efficient upgrades. Contact our team today to see if you’re eligible!

Get your heat pump installed with Grant Store

Ready to book a heat pump installation or have more questions? We’re here to help. With over 50 years of hands-on experience, our team can help you find the best solution for your home. We can even help you apply for funding if you’re eligible! Reach out to our team today to get started.