Heat Pumps FAQs

Air source heat pumps are generally not expensive to run. They are highly efficient, often producing 3 to 4 units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed. While electricity costs can impact running expenses, the efficiency of air source heat pumps usually results in lower heating bills compared to traditional systems.

In many cases, yes. Air source heat pumps operate at lower temperatures compared to traditional boilers. This means that to achieve the same level of comfort, you may need larger or more efficient radiators that can operate effectively at these lower temperatures. Alternatively, underfloor heating systems can be a suitable option as they work well with the lower temperature outputs of heat pumps.

The exact amount you save will depend on your specific circumstances, including the size of your home, insulation quality, and energy usage patterns.

Typically, most heat pumps are about 1 meter wide and 1 meter tall, and are installed against an external wall, you will also need some space in front of the heat pump for the air to flow. Inside the property, you will need room for the heat pump cylinder.

It can take between 2 and 5 days to install an Air Source Heat Pump system.

Hot water is stored in a well-insulated hot water cylinder. These cylinders are designed to maintain the water temperature efficiently, ensuring you have a ready supply of hot water when needed.

The average lifespan of a heat pump is the same as a modern boiler, around 15 years. Annual maintenance can significantly improve the life expectancy of your system.

An Air Source Heat Pump can provide heating and hot water anytime, day or night, just like a boiler.

After carrying out a survey and completing heat loss calculations a report is compiled explaining the size of the system and estimated running costs. If you go ahead with the no obligation quote then an air source heat pump is then installed by first removing any existing cylinder and boiler. A typical installation takes around 3-4 days.

Typically, no planning permission is required for a ground source heat pump installation as it's usually considered permitted development. However, there are exceptions. If you live in a listed building, conservation area, or have specific circumstances, it's essential to check with your local planning authority to confirm.

Yes, you can use radiators with a ground source heat pump. However, as Ground Source Heat Pumps operate at lower temperatures than traditional boilers, your existing radiators may need to be larger or upgraded to ensure efficient heat distribution. Underfloor heating is often considered more suitable due to its larger heat emitting area, but radiators can work well with proper system design.

Ground source heat pumps are very quiet. The main components are underground, producing minimal noise.

The amount of land needed depends on the size of the heat pump. Most installations require a paddock or small field to install pipes horizontally. If space is limited, you can install boreholes vertically in a small garden.

The heat pump itself is installed indoors and is about the size of a chest freezer. You will also need space for the cylinder. A utility room or adjoining garage are usually the best places for these components.

For a full installation it takes around 6 to 8 days. This is split between burying the pipes in the ground which can take 3-4 days, depending on the amount of pipe that is needed and the soil conditions. The installation of the internal heat pump equipment will take an additional 3-4 days to install.

The cost to install a ground source heat pump typically starts from around £16,000 and depends on various factors such as the size of your property, the type of system (horizontal or vertical loops), and the complexity of the installation.

Ground Source Heat Pumps are not susceptible to changes in outside air temperature like Air Source Heat Pumps and thus, they provide a constant source of heat all year round.

Yes, you can set the Ground Source Heat Pump to heat your house to a desired temperature for specific times and dates.

Very similar to a normal boiler. It is advisable to have an annual service in order to keep the warranty valid and ensure that the unit is working as efficiently as possible.