With the major energy suppliers cranking up their prices in time for winter, the need to become more efficient and produce your own power has become more evident. Why pay the National Grid when you could generate your own energy?
In line with this philosophy, heat pumps have become a natural starting point for many homeowners around the country.
But with two viable systems to choose from in the form of air source and ground source heat pumps, which is right for your home?
Let’s start by explaining what heat pumps are and the difference between these two designs.
What is a heat pump?
Heats pumps are renewable technologies which generate free heat using a natural energy source. Heat passes through a compressor which increases the temperature, making it suitable to be used domestically.
There are two types of heat pump you could consider:
- Air source heat pumps: These take the shape of an air conditioning unit and are installed against an exterior wall of your home.
- Ground source heat pumps: These systems are installed under the ground, using a loop of pipes to collect heat found in the Earth.
Heat pump grants
The Government is keen to introduce renewable technology products into many UK homes and as such, offer grants for the installation of heat pumps.
The following grants apply to homeowners in the UK:
- £1,300 grant for an air source heat pump
- £2,300 grant for a ground source heat pump
As well as the grants, from spring 2014, both systems will be eligible to receive payments from the Renewable Heat Incentive. This scheme will pay you for every unit of renewable heat you produce.
How much will I save?
As well as Government incentives there are the amazing savings you’ll benefit from with both ground and air source heat pumps. Take a look at the table below to see how much you can save depending on the fuel replaced:
