Common myths about heat pumps
According to leading industry experts, despite air source heat pumps being environmentally friendly, there are still many myths surrounding them that might be holding people back from making the switch. We've listed the most common myths below and hopefully you'll find the answers of interest.
Air source heat pumps are noisy
When properly installed and maintained, heat pumps operate quietly, with sound levels similar to a gas boiler or fridge.
Heat pumps are expensive
The higher upfront costs are offset by the government's boiler upgrade scheme grant of £7500, with running costs lowered through special heat pump energy tariffs. Properly installed heat pumps in well insulated efficient properties can generate up to four times as much heat as a gas boiler for the same price.
Heat pumps don't work in winter
Heat pumps do work during the colder months! They're designed to handle all types of weather, even the cold. As the outside temperatures drop, the heat pump efficiency will gradually reduce but they're still more efficient than a gas boiler and can work well even when temperatures are as low as -25°C.
Heat pumps don't work with older or existing radiators
Heat pumps work perfectly well with larger size radiators or an underfloor heating system. But if you don't want to change your radiators, you could opt to install a high temperature heat pump which is designed for older and/or smaller radiators as they use higher water temperatures.
My radiators won't be warm enough with a heat pump
An expert installer should design a heating system that will keep your rooms at your preferred temperature and comfort level. The surface temperature of your radiators may feel cooler than you're used to but don't worry your rooms will feel just as warm.
Air source heat pumps require planning permission
Air source heat pumps typically fall under permitted development rights so in most cases, homeowners can install them without planning permission, provided they meet the microgeneration certification scheme planning standards (MCS). However, if you live in a listed building or a conservation area, we recommend speaking to your local planning office.
Heat pumps can't heat water
Whether a heat pump can heat water depends on the type of heat pump you install. An air source heat pump also known as an 'air-to-water heat pump' can heat water. However, unlike a combi boiler, an air source heat pump doesn't supply hot water on demand. You'll need a way of storing hot water for when you need it, like a hot water cylinder. The heat pump works by transferring heat from the outside air to the water in the cylinder.
A heat pump won't work with microbore pipes
Not entirely true! Whilst most heat pump manufacturers are unwilling to guarantee their pump's performance with narrower microbore pipes (they're more likely to freeze in winter), there are heat pumps that will work, for example gas hybrid heat pumps. An expert installer will be able to provide the right advice.
Heat pumps don't provide cooling
Air-to-air heat pumps do! They work by taking heat from the outside air and using a fan system to distribute it indoors. If you need a pump to heat and cool, check with your chosen manufacturer or installer to find the right model.
Air source heat pumps are not as good as gas boilers
In the UK, gas boilers are the most popular choice for home heating but they consume a lot of fuel which makes them less than 100 percent efficient. In real terms, for every kilowatt of gas you use, you may only be getting 90 percent of heat. With a heat pump, you can get up to 400 percent of heat which is much more energy efficient and a truly sustainable low carbon option.