Thought about switching to a heat pump but not sure if it’s worth it?
Over 85% of UK homes currently have a gas boiler. However, after 2035 a new Gas Boiler will no longer be an option. There will be a UK ban in the Government efforts to achieve their Net Zero strategy by 2050. The 2025 Future homes standard also aims to ensure that new homes will produce 75-80% less carbon than homes built under the current regulations.
Heat pumps are gaining popularity with almost 60,000 sold in the UK in 2024 and the number is rising steadily.
There are however, some things to consider prior to making the switch.
Insulation
Ensure your home is properly insulated. As a heat pump heats water to a lower temperature than a gas boiler. It is essential to getting the most from your heat pump. A well insulated home is a must, ensuring the effectiveness of the heat pump.
Price
The higher price point has been an issue historically. However, with the Government rebate of up to £7500 against the cost of a new Heat Pump, it really makes it an easy investment.
Running Costs
Against a standard gas boiler you are able to save an average of £146 per year. However, adding solar panels into the equation ensures your energy bill savings are dramatically higher. And if you consider a solar optimised Heat Pump such as the Soltaro All-in-One Heat Pump, the smart kit will ensure your running costs are even lower still.
Is a heat pump better than a combi boiler?
A Heat Pump is efficient to approx. 300-400% as opposed to its gas counterpart. Even a brand new Gas Boiler is only able to achieve up to 94% which does drop year on year.
A heat pump is cool to the touch with no emissions. As they don’t burn fuel there are no risks of gas leaks or potential explosions, providing a much safer environment.
Typically they require much less maintenance and last longer than a gas boiler with a typical life expectancy of 20 years.
How does a Heat Pump work?
A Heat pump works a little like a fridge but in reverse. It draws cooler air from outside and transfers the thermal energy via a heat exchanger. The air is absorbed by the refrigerant gas and compressed, raising its pressure and temperature. The heat is more consistent than that provided by a gas boiler. Want to know more about how a heat pump works? Read our article here.
Is a heat pump grant worth it?
If you are updating an older gas boiler then the heat pump grant is definitely worth looking into. With a £7500 rebate through the Boiler Upgrade scheme, you can upgrade your old gas boiler system with a much more effective and efficient heat pump.
Do heat pumps improve EPC rating?
In a world of sustainability and eco friendly focus from Government, the answer is yes. A heat pump will improve your EPC rating and more importantly, increase your home’s market value. ScottishPower and WWF’s Better Home, Cooler Planet report notes that air source heat pumps can increase a home’s value by 3% to 7%.
Moreover, if your home has an older gas boiler and an EPC rating of D or lower, investing in a heat pump will increase the rating.
With all the factors we’ve talked about, we think it is definitely worth switching to a heat pump. Heat Pumps are becoming more popular than ever before and with the financial support from the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, it dramatically lowers the cost too. If you’d like to talk about how to apply for the grant or find about if a heat pump would benefit you, please drop us a line at info@soltaro.com
