Replacing your outdated boiler is a sensible consideration to make with the rising energy prices and cost of living. The benefits of an air source heat pump are making them especially popular in existing homes.
In this article, we’ll discuss why traditional boiler systems could be costing you more than necessary and how switching to an ASHP could be the most cost-efficient and environmentally friendly way forward for your home.
The Differences
There are a few key differences between ASHPs and traditional boilers.
Boiler systems traditionally used in most homes work by using either gas, oil or electricity to heat water which is then circulated around the home via pipes and radiators. This method can be quite costly, especially if your home isn’t very energy efficient.
In fact, research has shown that boiler systems can account for up to 60% of your energy bill!
On the other hand, air source heat pumps extract heat from the outside air and use it to heat your home in a more environmentally friendly way. ASHPs are powered by electricity but use around 30-60% less than traditional boilers, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
One reason for this is that a boiler runs at higher temperatures (around 70 degrees celsius) whereas ASHPs can operate at around 40 degrees.
The Benefits of an Air Source Heat Pump
There are a few things that make these products an attractive option for those looking to replace their boiler.
1) Underfloor Heating
For one, as ASHPs work best at lower temperatures, it means they can be used with underfloor heating systems. Underfloor heating is much more efficient than traditional radiators as it evenly distributes heat throughout the room and doesn’t rely on convection currents.
This makes your home more comfortable to live in as you won’t have cold spots near windows or doors and also helps to reduce mould growth.
It is important to remember that the cooler the system can run, the less it will cost – however, we understand that retrofitting into existing properties may rely on your home already having underfloor heating in place in order to avoid tearing up the floors!
Where this is not possible – you can still rely on radiators to produce a more efficient result.
2) Little Disruption
Another of the top benefits of an air source heat pump is that they are relatively easy to install, especially if you’re replacing an existing boiler system. They can be fitted into most homes with little disruption and don’t require any external pipework.
ASHPs can be fitted to most existing boiler systems without having to make any changes to your home’s layout or décor and will work in conjunction with your current radiators.
In comparison, ground source heat pumps require heavy digging and disruption of multiple points of your property both internally and externally. Air source products usually don’t require any planning permissions.
3) Environmentally Friendly
ASHPs are also much better for the environment than traditional gas, oil or electric boilers. They don’t produce any harmful emissions and can actually help to improve air quality.
This is due to the fact that they don’t rely on burning fossil fuels to generate heat. In comparison, gas boilers produce carbon dioxide (CO₂) – a greenhouse gas – when they’re used.
Electric boilers are also quite inefficient as around two-thirds of the electricity they use is wasted through heat loss. This means that not only are you paying more for your energy bills but you’re also having a negative impact on the environment.
Choosing an ASHP could help you do your bit for the planet as well as save you money in the long run! Although the upfront cost may seem hefty compared to other options, you may be able to claim a lot of this back through the Clean Heat Grant (or Boiler Upgrade Scheme).
Similarly, as you will be saving more long-term, you will see this investment come back to you in the form of efficiency and lower energy consumption.
4) Clean Heat Grant
One of the benefits of an air source heat pump many people aren’t aware of is their possible eligibility for this green energy grant.
Replacing the RHI payments, this scheme allows people to apply for an upfront fee of up to £5k in order to cover the cost of installing a new ASHP.
It was implemented to encourage people with existing boiler systems to replace and improve upon their methods of energy consumption – not only for cost purposes but for environmental reasons too.
With expectations for low carbon systems moving forwards, this is a push in the right direction for many homes, making it more affordable and accessible to replace traditional boilers.
5) Cooling Capabilities
While it may contradict the name, an air source heat pump can also be used for cooling in the summer months.
This is a huge benefit as it means you don’t have to invest in two separate systems – one for each purpose. Many people find that their ASHP pays for itself during the summer as they’re not having to use traditional methods of cooling such as air conditioning units.
Not only do these use a lot of energy and, therefore, cost more to run but they also tend to produce harmful emissions similar to that of domestic boilers. Using an ASHP for both heating and cooling purposes is much better for both your wallet and the environment!
6) Mitsubishi Ecodan ASHP
If you are thinking of making the switch, then the Mitsubishi products are a great example of the minimal disruption and simple installation processes you can enoy with an ASHP.
They are excellent for both domestic and commercial applications as they are available in a range of sizes to suit different property types and heating/cooling requirements.
However, they are also fantastic for existing buildings with strict regulations. The fact that they are self-contained means their only needs are water and electric connections – mitigating the need for taking up the flooring.
Instead, they can discreetly be placed outside whilst still offering a more efficient output.
7) Longer Shelf Life
Another one of the benefits of an air source heat pump is that they have a much longer shelf life than traditional boilers.
This is partly due to the fact that not only are modern products made to be more structurally sound but there are also just a small amount of moving parts within the system – meaning there’s less wear and tear.
This lack of mechanical components also makes them much quieter than other options on the market.
One of the huge benefits of an air source heat pump is that you could be looking at an investment of anywhere between 15 and 25 years with one of these products. Whereas, a traditional boiler system would be lucky to last 10.
In addition, as they don’t burn fossil fuels, there’s no danger of corrosion or build-up occurring inside the system. This means you won’t have to worry about maintenance and replacement costs as often, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
Conclusion
There are a number of grants and schemes available to help you offset the cost of installation, making ASHPs an even more attractive proposition, but in the long run, you will be reaping the benefits of a hugely efficient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional boilers.
This means that not only will you see savings on your energy bills from using an ASHP, but you also won’t have to replace it as often. This can save you a significant amount of money in the long run!
In existing properties where underfloor heating is present – they are fantastically economical when paired with this system. However, utilising old radiators will also present great advantages over gas or electric boilers.
It is an investment that is sure to future-proof your home and ensures you are making the most of new systems that will last as long as possible.
Whether you’re looking to cut costs, be more environmentally conscious, or take advantage of the latest technology, an ASHP could be the perfect solution for you. Get in touch with us today to find out more!
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