The UK heat pump industry has been established for over 20 years built by distributors and pioneers rather than manufactures. Unfortunately this has created a negative view of heat pumps caused by a lack of understanding of the product and a lot of mistakes.

“Experience is simply the name we give our mistakes” Oscar Wilde

Over the past 7 years the UK heat pump has changed dramatically. Manufacturers have realised the potential of the UK market and developed units specifically to meet our unique climate and Building Regulations. The latest range of air source heat pumps are, quieter, more efficient, reliable and SMART home ready.

Due to low fuel prices and lack of awareness heat pumps have gone under the radar until now. They are not a new technology. More heat pumps are sold globally than gas or oil boilers. It is the UK that are behind everyone else. 

Are heat pumps efficient?
Heat pumps are efficient! But poor emitter design (under floor, radiators), control strategy and installation significantly impacts on a heat pumps efficiency and performance. A heat pump is only as good as the design and installation. 

Are heat pumps reliable?
Mitsubishi, Vaillant and Grant all offer a 7 year guarantee. The UK fitted 100,000 heat pumps in 2020, France and Germany fitted 1.4M. A correctly installed and maintained unit has a life span of 10-15 years (outdoor unit). This is comparable to a gas combi boiler.

Are heat pumps noisy?
The simple answer is NO. Modern heat pumps from Mitsubishi and Vaillant meet the required sound levels for permitted development rights (PDR) and are accredited by the Noise Abatement Society. 

Can heat pumps work with old buildings?
Yes. A heat pump is a direct replacement for a gas or oil boiler. However the heat pump operates at lower temperatures meaning existing emitter circuits may have to be upgraded. Fan assisted radiators and AHU's provide responsive space heating where conventional emitters may not be feasible at lower operating temperatures.  

Can heat pumps work with radiators?
Heat pumps work with radiators providing they are designed to operate at a lower design temperature. This means existing radiators may have to be upgraded (bigger).

Do heat pumps work when it's cold?
Most air source heat pumps will operate down to -20C in arctic conditions and still provide 100% of the heating and hot water demands.

Can heat pumps produce Domestic Hot Water?
Modern heat pumps store hot water between 50C and 60C depending on the model. The average shower temp is 38C-42C. Although the storage temperature is lower than a boiler the cylinder size is increased to compensate.

How far can the heat pump be from the property?
The outdoor unit can be sited up to 30m from the cylinder. Allow £100 per meter for groundworks. 

Do I need planning permission?
Most installations do not require planning if they meet the design criteria for PDR. Properties that are listed, in a conservation area, etc will require planning.

Can I put a cover over the heat pump?
A specially designed enclosure can be fitted over the out door unit. Products are available online but very expensive. Speak to a specialist first!!!