Heat pumps are being talked about more and more as an alternative to traditional heating systems. You may be considering a heat pump but have been put off by some common myths
In this guide, we aim to tackle some of the most common misconceptions we hear about the technology.
Heat pumps do not work in our cold climate!
Wrong! Evidence suggests heat pumps will continue to work effectively year-round and some can even work in climates with temperatures below -25°C.
Heat pumps have already been extensively rolled out in many Scandinavian countries including Finland, Norway and Sweden.
In these countries, the average coldest temperatures over the winter can reach as low as -9°C whereas in Fife the average is around 0°C.
Heat pumps do need to work harder when it is colder. But so do other heating systems, such as gas boilers.
Heat pumps are a new technology and we do not know if they work properly!
Wrong! The technology behind heat pumps has around for decades and it’s likely that you already have the technology in your home.
The heat pump was invented in the 1850s for industrial use. Heat pumps use the same principles and technology as your fridge-freezer, which have been commonplace in UK homes since the late 1950s. This is around the same time the technology was also used in early domestic air and ground source heat pumps in Finland.
Heat pumps do not work unless homes are really well insulated!
Wrong! It is true to an extent that a heat pump is less efficient in poorly insulated homes. However, if the heat pump is installed correctly, it can still be an effective heating system.
To get the most from a heat pump you should insulate your home as much as possible prior to installation. It is worth considering a heat pump even in older homes that are hard to insulate. If you’re unsure if a heat pump is suitable for your property we’d recommend speaking to one of our energy advisors for advice.
Heat pumps are too noisy!
Wrong! Like any appliance, they will make some noise when running, usually around 40 decibels. To comply with planning legislation, a heat pump cannot be installed if it is louder than 44 decibels at the middle point between your and your neighbor’s property.
By comparison, most gas boilers will run at anywhere between 30-60 decibels. So the amount of noise heat pumps produce is fairly similar.
In extremely cold weather, your heat pump may make more noise than usual as works harder to heat your home.
Heat pumps are expensive to install!
Wrong! It’s true that heat pumps often cost more than gas boilers to install. However, as the technology becomes more common the price is coming down.
Some installers have agreed to match the install price to a comparable gas system or at least close to it.
There are also grants available to help meet some of the installation cost. We would recommend speaking to Home Energy Scotland to see what support is available.
Heat pumps won’t work with my microbore pipes and old radiators!
Maybe – You will require a survey of your home to confirm the suitability of any existing pipework and radiators. Some piping may need to be replaced, and some radiators may need to be resized. A proper assessment is vital to ensure a heat pump is designed suitably for your home.
Support from Cosy Kingdom
Would you like further advice on deciding which heating system is right for your home? Arrange a free and impartial energy advice appointment with one of our energy advisors.
Our energy advisors can be contacted by:
- Calling 01592 807930
- Texting COSY then YOUR NAME to 88440
- Emailing info@cosykingdom.org.uk
- Request advice online