Heat pumps are an energy efficient, low carbon way to heat your home. They’re suitable for almost all types of home and, depending on what heating system you’re replacing, could save you money on your energy bills.
What is a heat pump?
A heat pump is a heating system that:
takes in heat energy from a colder area, usually outside
raises the temperature
moves the heat into your home
It uses electricity to do this. But it produces much more heat energy than it uses in electrical energy.
This makes heat pumps a more energy efficient way to heat your home than a traditional gas or oil boiler. It also produces far fewer carbon emissions than other heating systems.
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We found several heat pump ‘myths’ that were holding people back from adopting the technology. Let’s cut through the hot air and get to the truth about heat pumps.
Myth: Heat pumps are big
Fact: Heat pumps need less space than two wheelie bins stood side-by-side. That’s around 1.5 metres wide.
Myth: Heat pumps only work in well insulated homes
Fact. Heat pumps work in all types of homes and still work well in those that have less insulation. When you speak to a heat pump installer, they’ll assess your home and set your heat pump to work with your house type and heating needs.
Myth: Heat pumps require a lot of maintenance
Fact: Heat pumps need no more maintenance than a gas boiler. Just like with a gas boiler, we recommend an annual service for your heat pump.
Myth: There’s no financial help for heat pumps
Fact: In England and Wales, you can get up to £7,500 of government funding towards a heat pump (other funding options available for Scotland and Northern Ireland).
For Scotland, you can get a grant of up to £7,500 (£9,000 in rural properties) energy efficient home improvements. You can also get a loan of up to £7,500 to install a home renewable system.
For Northern Ireland, there are no dedicated schemes for heat pumps. But there’s help available to get your home ready for a heat pump, including upgrading your home insulation.
Contact NI Energy Advice to find out what funding might be available to you.
I’m thinking about getting a heat pump. Where do I go next?
The best thing to do is to find out what heat pump system is right for you and speak to an installer for more tailored advice:
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Last updated: 21 March 2024
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