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0333 305 6880Last updated: 3rd July, 2024
Advice
Heat pumps are currently a popular topic of debate amongst homeowners and industry experts alike, this can be traced to the public’s uncertainties surrounding the gas boiler ‘ban’ of 2025.
Here at iHeat we want to make sure our customers are fully informed on the intricacies of any topics related to home heating, especially topics that have garnered as much attention and produced as much misinformation as the gas boiler ‘ban’.
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The supposed ‘ban’ on gas boilers was initially announced in 2019 with plans to take effect as of 2025. The ban aims to help the UK reach its goals of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Some misinformed public members have already needlessly replaced their gas boilers due to the nature of panic purchasing.
In reality, the following is actually TRUE when it comes to the ‘ban’ -
The ‘ban’ actually states no new build properties can have a gas boiler installed past 2025
It is still legal to buy and install gas boilers in any home currently and to continue to do so in older properties (anything that isn’t a new build) beyond the 2025 deadline
There is no legal requirement, financial penalties or general onus to remove and replace your existing gas boiler before or after 2025
One of the main ‘myths’ produced from this heating hysteria is that you must replace an existing gas boiler with a device called a heat pump.
An air source heat pump is an appliance that transfers thermal energy from outside to heat a property; heat pumps work off a home’s refrigeration cycle.
While it’s acknowledged that heat pumps are efficient and could return potential savings in the long term, there are a few things you should consider first before committing to replacing your gas boiler with one!
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Heat pumps and the expert installation requirements in terms of difficulty and time consumption can be very pricey, costing upward of £15,000 in some cases! This high upfront cost can be off-putting to many prospective buyers and would leave a large amount of money needing to be recouped through savings, which could take a very long time.
Heat pumps run on electricity. While this is efficient and releases fewer emissions, electricity is the most expensive fuel on the market and can cost up to three times the price of gas (one of the most affordable fuel types).
A heat pump generates a lower level of home heating, with a max output of around 55°C. In contrast, a modern, efficient combi boiler is in the range of 70°C-85°C. This lower temperature output may not be what a homeowner or their family is accustomed to and may not heat a home as well.
Although quieter modern technology is always developing, current air source heat pumps give off some noise pollution; some people feel this could be distracting or off-putting.
Not every UK property would be an ideal location to install a heat pump; this can be due to insufficient property insulation. without considerable insulation, the heat generated from a pump would be lost. Loft and cavity wall insulation can considerably bump up the heat pump installation's cost.
Some heat pumps can be less effective in colder areas; they can operate as low as -20°C, but if the outside temperature is below 0°C, they begin to lose efficiency. On some freezing winter days, a sub-optimal performance from your home’s main heating instrument would be less than ideal.
Although many air source heat pumps do not require active planning permission, some regulations must be followed before installation. These include ensuring the installation is at least 1 metre away from the property boundary, is installed on a suitable surface, has a specific max volume and will be used for heating only.
With these considerations, an air source heat pump may not be suitable or advantageous for every home. With no actual onus to replace your gas boiler or preventative measures to stop you from installing a new gas boiler, this may be the more viable option to provide satisfactory heating for your property.
At iHeat we stock a massive range of powerful and sleek new boilers designed to save space and perform at the highest level. With sizes to fit any property, now might be the perfect time to replace an old boiler and upgrade.
Get a free instant fixed price quote on our boiler range, with next day Gas Safe installation available, getting a new boiler has never been so easy.
Before deciding to install a heat pump, assess several important aspects. Firstly, check if the climate of your area is conducive to a heat pump's operation, as they work best in moderate to mild climates. Secondly, ensure your home is well-insulated. Heat pumps require good insulation to be efficient; otherwise, heat loss can lead to higher operating costs. Consider the space available for installation, as ground source pumps require significant space for underground pipes. Lastly, evaluate the initial cost versus long-term savings. Heat pumps have a high upfront cost but typically offer lower running costs and environmental benefits over time.
The main disadvantages of heat pumps include their high initial installation costs and potential for decreased efficiency in extremely cold weather. In cold climates, air source heat pumps may struggle to extract heat from the air, requiring supplementary heating systems. Additionally, the installation process can be complex and disruptive, requiring professional expertise, which adds to the initial investment.
Homes that are poorly insulated are not ideal for heat pumps due to the inefficiency and energy loss this causes. Similarly, homes in areas that experience extreme cold may not benefit as much, as the efficiency of air source heat pumps significantly drops in colder temperatures. Lastly, properties without sufficient outdoor space may not be able to accommodate the necessary equipment, particularly for ground source heat pumps, which require extensive space for the heat extraction pipework.
When shopping for a new heat pump, focus on the unit's energy efficiency ratings, such as the Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). These ratings indicate how efficiently the pump converts energy into heat. Choose a heat pump with a high energy star rating to ensure maximum energy savings. Also, consider the type of heat pump that suits your property's geographical location and space availability, whether air source or ground source.
On average, a well-maintained heat pump should last between 15 to 20 years. The longevity can vary based on the model, usage patterns, and regularity of maintenance. Annual servicing by a professional can help extend the life of a heat pump by ensuring it operates efficiently and by addressing any minor issues before they escalate into major problems.
Yes, heat pumps are worth considering due to their energy efficiency and environmental benefits. They are particularly advantageous in regions with milder winters. Over time, the savings on energy bills can significantly offset the high initial cost. Additionally, using renewable energy sources helps reduce carbon emissions, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
The most significant issue with heat pumps, particularly air source models, is their reduced efficiency in very cold weather. This is because extracting heat from extremely cold air is more challenging and less efficient. For this reason, supplemental heating systems may be necessary for colder climates, which can complicate the heating setup and increase energy use.
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