–Heat Pumps Vs. Boilers: What you need to know
When it comes to heating your home, you have a few options to choose from. Depending on where you live will of course influence the options available to you. Two of the most popular systems are heat pumps and boilers. But how do you know which one is the best choice for you? In this article, we'll explore the differences between heat pumps and boilers, the benefits of heat pumps, and whether you can use a heat pump as a boiler replacement.
Boiler Vs. Heat Pump: Differences
Heat pumps and boilers both provide warmth to your home, but they work in different ways.
A boiler is a closed vessel that uses natural gas, propane, or heating oil to create heat which is then circulated through your home’s radiators or underfloor heating.
A heat pump, on the other hand, uses electricity to extract heat from indoor spaces by cooling them during the summer months and, in winter, to transfer heat indoors by reversing the cycle (yes, even in winter it is possible to extract heat from outdoor air thanks to the properties of the refrigerant fluid!).
There are two types of heat pumps:
- Air-to-air heat pumps use indoor units such as wall-mounted, consoles or ducts to transfer cold or heat indoors through the air.
- Air-to-water heat pumps transfer external heat to water via radiators or underfloor heating, and can even provide cooling and domestic hot water.Why are Heat Pumps more efficient than Boilers?
One of the main benefits of heat pumps is their high efficiency, which can result in lower energy bills compared to boilers. Most gas boilers are 90-95% efficient, as some heat will always be lost. On the other hand, heat pumps are around 300-400% efficient (for every kilowatt of electricity the heat pump uses you will get 3 to 4 times more heat due to the fact that they do not burn fuel but extract heat from outside air).
Can a Heat Pump replace a Boiler?
Air-to-air heat pumps remain an efficient source of heat in conditions as low as -20°C, a temperature rarely reached in most climates. However, if you live in a climate that regularly drops below that temperature, you will probably need a back-up heating system for very cold days. But even in this situation, it would be worth considering the installation of a heat pump to reduce your annual fuel consumption.
In the case of air-to-water heat pumps, they can withstand lower outdoor temperatures down to -25°C, relying on an electrical resistance in extreme weather conditions.
Maintenance of a Boiler Vs. maintenance of a Heat Pump
Both heat pumps and boilers require regular maintenance to ensure they are operating efficiently.
Boilers typically need to be serviced once a year to inspect the heat exchanger, check that the wiring and connections are correct, and clean and purge the system if necessary.
Heat pumps also need annual servicing, and the outdoor unit should be cleaned regularly to remove any debris that may have accumulated.
What is the average life of a Boiler?
The life expectancy of a boiler depends on the type of boiler you have. On average, a conventional gas boiler can last for 10 to 15 years given that it is well maintained and serviced annually. In the case of a superior quality boiler, it could last 20 years.
How many years does a Heat Pump last?
Heat pumps can last up to 15 years with proper maintenance. Like boilers, the life expectancy of a heat pump can vary depending on the type of heat pump you have and how well it is maintained.
Will a Heat Pumps add value to my home?
Heat pumps can potentially add value to your home since they are more energy-efficient than boilers, which can lead to lower energy bills and potentially higher resale value. Additionally, air source heat pumps are far more environmentally friendly than traditional gas boilers. If implemented worldwide, using heat pumps instead of traditional boilers and furnaces could cut global CO2 emissions by 3 gigatons per year according to research by McKinsey.
Benefits of Heat Pumps over Boilers
There are several heat pump benefits compared to boilers:
- Energy efficiency: As mentioned above, for every kilowatt of electricity the heat pump uses you will get 3 to 4 times more heat due to the fact that they do not burn fuel, which can result in significant savings on your energy bills.
- Environmentally-friendly: Heat pumps use electricity to move heat rather than burning fossil fuels, making them a more environmentally-friendly option.
- Space and installation: Air-to-air heat pumps are typically smaller and easier to install than boilers, which makes them a good option for homes with limited space or difficult-to-access areas.
- Versatility: Heat pumps can be used for both heating and cooling, as well as for domestic hot water in case of air-to-water systems, making them a more versatile option than boilers.
Hitachi Heat Pump ranges available
Hitachi offers a range of heat pump options for both cooling and heating. These include air-to-air heat pumps and air-to-water heat pumps.
Hitachi's air-to-air heat pumps come in a variety of sizes and models to suit different needs and preferences. Some models are designed for residential use, while others are more suitable for commercial applications. These heat pumps can be used for both heating and cooling, and feature advanced technology to improve efficiency and indoor air quality.
Hitachi's air-to-water heat pumps can provide domestic hot water in addition to cooling and heating. They are available in sizes small enough to fit in a kitchen cupboard and can be integrated with radiator and underfloor heating systems.
Overall, Hitachi offers a wide range of heat pump options to suit different needs and preferences. Their products are known for their high quality and advanced technology, making them a reliable choice for both residential and commercial applications.
by Hitachi Cooling & Heating
