Heat Pumps

VOLTARI’S COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE HEATING: YOUR PARTNER IN HEAT PUMP SOLUTIONS

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As the world moves towards net zero, heat pumps are a sustainable option for those who want to contribute to a cleaner future. 

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What are the different types of heat pumps?

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There are several types of heat pumps available, including water-sourced, hybrid, absorption and high-temperature heat pumps. However, the two most common types in the UK are air source and ground source, which we’ll be comparing below.

HEAT PUMPS VS GAS BOILERS

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Heat pumps

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Using electricity, heat pumps transfer heat from outside to inside instead of generating heat. They do this either through air or ground, depending on the type of heat pump. 

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Gas heating

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This direct method of heating burns natural gas to produce heat, which is then delivered through radiators or underfloor heating.

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Heat pump pros

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• Energy efficiency: Given that heat pumps transfer heat instead of generating heat, they are much more efficient than traditional heating systems. 
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• Environmentally friendly: Running on electricity, they give out way fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Also, if the electricity comes from renewable sources, heat pumps can be almost carbon neutral. 
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• Low running cost: Heat pumps can lower energy costs, especially in areas where electricity is cheaper or in homes with solar panels. 
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• Ability to cool: Many heat pumps have the ability to reverse their usual process in warmer months to provide cooling, meaning they can be used all year round. 
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• Lasts longer: They tend to last around 15-25 years, which is almost double the lifespan of gas boilers, which last approximately 10-15 years. 
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Heat pump cons

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• Higher initial cost: The initial costs of buying and installing a heat pump are a lot higher than a gas boiler. There is, however, government funding available. 
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• Produces less heat: Heat pumps operate at lower temperatures than gas boilers. Therefore, they may not be suitable for homes that are poorly insulated or have older radiator systems. If your home’s insulation isn’t suitable, Voltari can help you with a new radiator system as part of the installation process. 
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• Weather dependency: It is common for air source heat pumps to be less effective in cold climates. Ground source heat pumps, however, are more effective in cold conditions, but they are more costly and use a lot of space to install. It is worth mentioning though, that around 40% of homes in Sweden have air source heat pumps, so when installed properly they can work well in cold climates. 
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• Tricky installation: Ground source heat pumps can be extremely complex to install. They require a large space and excavation, which can raise your costs even higher and make them impractical. Air source heat pumps aren’t quite as tricky, but they do require appropriate space outside. 
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• Electricity costs: As heat pumps rely on electricity, this will raise your electricity outgoings, especially in areas where electricity prices are higher. 

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