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Heat Pumps in the Winter
Energy prices might have dropped since their peak last winter, but for many of us they’re still high. It’s no wonder, then, that many households are looking for more efficient and cost-effect ways to heat their homes. Air source heat pumps have increased in popularity of late due to their greener qualities and ability to function without the use of fossil fuels. And with the recent increase in the government’s Boiler Upgrade Grant, they’re more affordable. But do they work well in winter, and is heat pump installation worth it? Let’s take a closer look.
Are Air Source Heat Pumps Any Good in Winter?
Air source heat pumps work all year round and can withstand extremely low temperatures. They’re used in countries such as Sweden and Norway, which get much colder than the UK, so there’s no reason not to have them installed here. Gas boilers will eventually be phased out due to their reliance on unsustainable fossil fuels, so it’s worth finding an alternative sooner rather than later.
Are Air Source Heat Pumps Less Efficient in Winter?
Air source heat pumps work by drawing in outside air, compressing and heating it, and distributing it throughout the home. Contrary to what some people believe, this process is still very much effective in low temperatures and won’t come to a halt in snowy or icy temperatures. Some heat pumps even work in temperatures as low as -25°C thanks to improved technology. As air source heat pumps produce far more heat compared to the electricity they use, they’re also an extremely cost effective option.
As the air outside gets colder, the heat pump has to work slightly harder in order to provide the necessary heat for your property. But this is the same for boilers too – and boilers burn unsustainable fuel sources.
Those with large or particularly cold houses sometimes choose a hybrid system that combines an air source heat pump and an energy efficient boiler. With this, the boiler is only used for support and will kick in when temperatures are particularly low. Otherwise, the air pump will do the hard work for a greener way of living.
Is a Heat Pump Installation Worth it in a Cold Country?
Absolutely. Heat pump installers can provide a system that works well for your property, with heat pump servicing providing year round efficiency. You can even take out heat pump cover to help fund servicing and repairs. To really reap the money saving benefits of an air source heat pump, you should make sure your home is well insulated. Your installer can advise whether you will need more insulation before investing in a heat pump. You can also invest in draught excluders and thick curtains where necessary, and cover hardwood floors with rugs during the coldest months.
Contact Aura Heating today for MCS Certified heat pump installation covering Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex, Dorset, South London, Berkshire and Wiltshire.
