FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WILL THEY SAVE MONEY?
Heat-pumps will drastically reduce CO2 emissions. However despite what some of our competitors say, it will not always save money on heating costs.
For an average four bedroom detached house, a heat-pump would be significantly cheaper than a G-rated gas or oil boiler. However, it may cost slightly more to run than a new A-rated gas boiler.
More on running cost comparisons is available via the Energy Saving Trust: https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/air-source-heat-pumps/
IS MY PROPERTY SUITABLE?
Heat-pump outputs are limited and we would always recommend a ‘Fabric first’ approach that makes sure the insulation in your home is to an acceptable standard.
For new builds or modifications, insulation standards are driven by building regulations. The following dates will give an indication of suitability:
Built Prior to 1992
Likely to need significant improvements to insulation if not already refurbished or modified.
Built After 1992
Generally suitable but may benefit from improvements to windows and insulation if not previously upgraded.
Built After 2002
Those built after 2002 will be suitable with properties built after 2013 being the most suitable due to high levels of insulation.
WHAT DOES IT COST TO FIT?
Every application is unique but typically an air-source installation ranges from £7,000 to £12,000. Ground-source installations are more expensive because of the associated ground works.
HOW’S IT INSTALLED?
If you have an existing system the boiler will be removed and the heat-pump will connect to the existing radiator or underfloor heating pipework. If the system is air source the pipework will be re-routed and connected outside. If the system is ground source the unit will be position and piped inside the building with just the ground source loops outside.
As part of the installation it’s also likely that the hot water tank will be changed and possible that the radiators will need to be upgraded.
RADIATORS OR UNDERFLOOR HEATING?
Heat-pumps are best suited to underfloor heating but can work effectively with radiators as long as they’re suitably sized. As part of our proposal we might recommend upgrading radiators to ensure running costs are minimised.
WHAT ABOUT SEASONAL RUNNING COSTS?
Every application is unique and we are often approached by people querying winter running costs. The winter months are when the system works hardest and costs most to run. Our recommendation is that the annual cost is spread evenly over a twelve month peroid using your electricity providers payment plan.
