Switching from a boiler to a heat pump? Here’s what you need to know
There could be several reasons why you’re thinking about switching from a boiler to a heat pump.
Maybe it’s the environmental benefits or the potential for lower energy bills in the long-term. Each home is unique, and so each heat pump installation will be slightly different.
That said, there are some key considerations to understand when making that switch.
Read more about:
The heat pump installation process
The difference between how boilers and heat pumps work
Long-term benefits of switching to a heat pump
Energy savings when using a heat pump
Understanding if a heat pump is right for you
The heat pump installation process
When switching from a boiler to an air source heat pump (ASHP), it’s worth knowing what the installation process involves. After your initial enquiry, your installer will carry out a heat loss calculation and survey of your property to ensure it will be suitable for a heat pump and how much power it will need to provide in order to deliver a consistent level of comfort.
As heat pumps work at lower flow temperatures than boilers, you may need to make some modifications to your property as a result. These can include:
- Upsizing heat emitters such as radiators
- Pipework changes
- Upgrading insulation and/or double glazing
Naturally, the cost of an installation and any modifications like these will be a key factor when deciding to switch to a heat pump. Grants such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) can help to reduce these expenses, or other available grants that are provided through local authorities.
When changing from a combi boiler to a heat pump, you’ll also need to ensure that you have a suitable location for an ASHP outside and an ASHP cylinder indoors for hot water storage. Unlike combi boilers, an air source heat pump does not provide instantaneous hot water and therefore a cylinder is required. Your installer can suggest suitable locations for both appliances as part of the site survey.
Our comprehensive guide to heat pumps explains what else you’ll need to know before, during, and after having a heat pump installed at your home and the steps you might need to take at each stage. Click here to find out more and to download the full checklist.
