Pipelife Appears In Heat Pump Skill Builder Video
Home heat pump uptake is still a somewhat contentious issue, with many myths dissuading homeowners from using renewable energy to power their homes. While many in Ireland have made the switch to an air-to-water heat pump and are enjoying the benefits, this home heating solution is significantly less popular further afield, both in the UK and even beyond.
Much of the apprehension surrounding heat pumps stems from misinformation and uncertainty amongst homeowners trying to understand whether a heat pump is right for them. At Pipelife Eco, this is a challenge we have been helping people overcome for some time now, and we were delighted to recently have the opportunity to sit down with Skill Builder and talk openly about the current state of play for heat pumps.
In the video filmed at the Pipelife Academy, Pipelife’s Technical Sales Manager, Mike Geary, outlines the limitations of the technology before covering the things to consider if you are deciding whether one is right for your home. You can watch the full discussion below, and we have detailed the key points covered in this article.
Why Is Heat Pump Uptake Low?
In the Skill Builder video, Mike opens the discussion by acknowledging that despite widespread acknowledgement of the need for renewable energy and generous government incentives available, heat pump uptake in the UK is much lower than in Ireland.
Common and valid concerns surrounding heat pumps include perceived noise, planning permission difficulties, and uncertainty about running costs. However, it’s important to note that modern heat pump systems have evolved significantly to overcome many of these objections. The Midea heat pump is used as an example of this in the video, with this solution offering a single unit and incredibly quiet design that can eliminate the problems associated with installation and planning.
Heat Pump Limitations
This isn’t to say that a heat pump is the right solution for everyone. Heat pump technology does have some limitations, which we are keen to address when helping identify the most suitable home heating system for each individual case.
High running costs are one concern raised frequently, and something that Mike discusses in the Skill Builder video. Although heat pumps can result in higher than normal electricity bills, this is typically not due to the technology itself. High costs usually stem from poor system design, incorrect installation, and unsuitable retrofitting. The key takeaway is not that heat pumps are inherently expensive, but rather that performance can suffer when a heat pump isn’t matched correctly to a home’s needs.
With this in mind, it’s always wise to consider all options before choosing a heat pump. Are your windows in the best condition? Do you have proper insulation? Heat pumps are most effective in homes that are already energy efficient, and if these questions are unanswered, then the likelihood is that your home is not heat pump ready.
Heat Pump Advantages
Where a heat pump is the right solution, it can offer a number of standout advantages in comparison to a traditional gas boiler. Heat pumps maintain a steady indoor temperature throughout the day, rather than relying on short bursts of heat from individual hot radiators that turn on and off. This creates a comfortable and consistent environment and should use less energy in the long run.
Modern heat pumps can also factor in outdoor temperatures, utilising features like weather compensation to adjust heating output based on the conditions. This can result in energy savings of 20% to 30% compared to older heating systems, which, over a year, should add up to significant savings in a home that is well insulated.
What To Consider Before Heat Pump Installation
The main takeaway of Mike’s discussion is a clear one: a heat pump can transform your home, but you must take the time to ensure suitability before installation. This should always include a full technical assessment of the property, including insulation, windows, and existing heating infrastructure such as radiators or underfloor heating systems.
Working with an experienced and reputable installer is also essential. Whoever you choose should carry out detailed calculations to determine the correct size and type of heat pump for your home and design a system tailored to your exact needs. Rushing into the process and accepting a one-size-fits-all proposal will likely lead to an incorrectly specified system, inefficiencies, and higher costs.
If you would like expert assistance to help you decide if a heat pump is right for your home, place your trust in Pipelife Eco. With years of industry experience and a customer-first approach to system design, you can count on us to plan and prepare a system that performs well, keeps your home comfortable, and pays for itself in the long run with greater efficiency. Simply get in touch today to find out more.