Tech spot: Heat pumps

We about sustainable and renewable technology a lot, so we thought it was high-time we showed you that we know our stuff, while also giving you the insider knowledge to decipher the jargon. This month, in our ‘tech spot’, we’re breaking down heat pumps. ​

As more and more councils declare climate emergencies, we need to think about what measures we can take to help hit zero carbon. If you heat your home using a gas boiler you will emit, on average, 3.5 tonnes of carbon per annum. You will also send particulate matter and carbon monoxide into your local atmosphere. Even if your home is electrically heated, you will have similar carbon emissions, as 1 kWh of heat needs 1kWh of electricity.

So, what is the alternative?
 
Heat pumps are the environmental solution to this issue. They use electricity to heat your home but in a much more efficient manner than traditional storage heaters. Heat pumps are 325-400% efficient. This means that they emit up to 4 times fewer emissions than gas or storage heaters and they are cheaper to run. Switch to a green tariff and you can heat your home carbon neutrally.
 
Savings and subsidies
 
Until April 2021, there are large Government subsidies available to encourage the uptake of heat pumps - the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). Householders, communities and businesses can earn up to £12,500 in subsidies over seven years to finance their heat pump install. Heat pumps cost between £11-16k to install, depending on the complexity, product and size of the home. Energy savings will depend on your current heating type and energy tariff. Heat pumps should be around a third of the cost to run of storage heaters and will save up to 20% compared to gas.
 
If you would like to find out more about heat pumps and other energy-saving technologies, just email [email protected]!