How efficient are heat pumps?

Heat pumps typically achieve an efficiency rate of 300%, with the top models reaching even higher rates.

This implies that, on average, your heat pump will generate an impressive three units of energy for every unit of electricity it consumes.

To provide context, the average UK home uses just over 12,000 kWh per year for heating, and your heat pump would be capable of delivering the same amount of heat from just 4,000 kWh.

In contrast, electric boilers are three times less efficient, with an efficiency rate of 100%, while the best gas boilers can only achieve 98% efficiency, at most.

Electricity is generally four times more costly than gas, which offsets any advantages gained from your heat pump’s remarkable efficiency – but the situation is evolving.

With electricity rapidly becoming the primary means for the UK to achieve its target of net-zero emissions by 2050, you would be investing in a future that’s nearly here – and one that will save you a substantial amount on your heating bill when it arrives.

Why are heat pumps so efficient?

Heat pumps excel in efficiency compared to gas and electric boilers by utilizing the natural warmth present in the air, earth, or water to complement the heating process.

The majority of the necessary energy is derived from this natural heat source, with a small amount of electricity powering the remaining operations.

A compressor and heat exchanger use this electricity to raise the temperature of the natural warmth to the level required for supplying heat to a residential heating system.

To assess the efficiency of a specific heat pump model, you can examine its Coefficient of Performance (CoP). However, for a comprehensive understanding, it is advisable to also take into account the Seasonal Performance Factor (SPF).

While the CoP indicates the peak efficiency of a heat pump, the SPF provides insight into its average efficiency throughout the entire year.

If you are keen on harnessing the exceptional efficiency and environmentally friendly attributes of heat pumps, simply fill out our free form. Our skilled installers will then reach out to you with quotes to assist you in making an informed decision.

How efficient are air source heat pumps in winter?

Air source heat pumps encounter a reduction in efficiency of around 20% in winter due to the increased electricity needed to extract heat from the air.

Despite certain misconceptions suggesting that heat pumps are less efficient than boilers in winter, they still remain approximately 2.5 times more efficient than gas boilers, even in snowy conditions.

You can rest assured that your air source heat pump will remain operational, even in freezing temperatures. Modern heat pumps are engineered to function reliably at temperatures as low as -10°C, and the top models can deliver warmth even in extreme temperatures as low as -25°C.

This is achievable because there is still heat present in the air at these temperatures. It would need to reach -273°C for there to be no heat at all, which is far colder than even the most severe British winters.

During winter, it may be necessary to perform maintenance checks more frequently, as weather conditions tend to be more demanding during these months.

For homeowners residing in areas with particularly harsh winter weather, considering the option of acquiring a heat pump cover is worthwhile. These covers offer protection for the outdoor unit against debris and snow accumulation.

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