Heat pumps are getting popular across the UK. They are more eco-friendly and a sustainable replacement for boilers.
Heat pumps are used to drive hot water and central hot flooring plans. Recently, gas prices have seen a sudden hike. So, now using a heat pump is more efficient than a traditional gas boiler.
But how much electricity does a heat pump use? Is it sustainable compared to the regular heating appliance? And what about its annual energy consumption?
Well, if these questions bother you, then worry not. We got you covered! Here’s your quick answer, in case you’re in a hurry:
The electricity consumption of heat pumps is measured in CoP. Usually, heat pumps that are installed in homes have a CoP of three. A pump of CoP three can make 3 KW of heat, consuming 1 KW of electricity.
On average, a three-bedroom house requires 15000 kWh of heat per year. Ground source pumps can create the same amount of warmth using 5000 kWh of electricity annually.
That is a lot of energy consumption, Right? Well, we have done detailed research to guide you properly. Keep on reading and know why it is still a better option.
Do Heat Pumps Use A Lot Of Electricity?
Yes, heat pumps use a lot of electricity per annum compared to any other home appliance. On average, they can use 5000kWh of energy in a year for a three-bedroom home.
Compared to traditional heating methods like a gas boiler, it uses 50% less electricity. Keeping the current electricity cap of 0.34 in mind, it will cost around £1500 – £1700 yearly.
Is Heat Pumps Cheaper Than Gas?
Yes, they are cheaper than gas furnaces. Recently the prices of both electricity and gas have increased.
Currently, the electricity price per kWh is 0.34p. While gas costs around 0.10p per kWh. But heat pumps use electricity and make more heat, while the gas furnace lags by 205%.
So, overall, they win by a major margin. As they give more outcomes with less input.
Is Heat Pump Better Than Gas Furnace?
Yes, heat pumps are way better than a regular gas furnace. They transfer 3x times of energy compared to what they consume.
On the contrary, a gas furnace can convert only 95% of energy to heat. It wastes 5% of energy while transferring it to the floor or water rather than making more.
Types Of Heating Pumps
There are three main types of heating pumps that have been widely used across the EU.
- Air Source
- Geothermal (Ground Source)
- Water Source
In the UK, air source and ground source heating pumps are preferred. They work efficiently and are more eco-friendly.
Air Source vs Ground Source Heat Pump – Which One Is Best?
Air source and ground source pumps are widely preferred by homeowners. With strong arguments from both sides, it becomes confusing to pick the best.
Save yourself from all the fuss and quickly look at our detailed comparison.
| Factors | Ground Source | Air Source |
| Installation Cost | £18,000- £30,000 | £10,000- £18,000 |
| Performance (CoP) | 3.5 – 4.5 | 2.5 – 3.5 |
| Energy Consumption | 3.5 -4.5 kWh (hourly) | 4 kWh (hourly) |
| Running Cost (Yearly) | £1500 –£2000 | £1200 –£1800 |
| Carbon Emission | Low | Very Low |
| Maintenance Charges | £500 | £500 |
| Shelf Life | 20 – 30 Years | 15 – 20 Years |
| Heat Source | Soil | Air |
| Proficiency | 100% | 99.99% |
| Noise | No | Up To 60 dB |
- Overall, the ground source heat pumps are best for homes. They cut around 20 tons of carbon emissions annually.
- Air source heat pumps are suitable for buildings located near the beach or windy areas.
- Ground source pumps can provide temperatures up to 65°C. While air source pumps provide a temperature of up to 50°C.
- During the extreme winters, ground-based pumps outperform air-based pumps.
Are Heat Pumps Worth It?
Yes, heat pumps are essential and worth every penny you spend. A single unit with a CoP of three can fulfil the needs of any family.
Using them will significantly decrease hot tub energy consumption by about 30%. Then, a ground source pump can also keep the floor warm even during extreme winters.
How Much Electricity Does A Heat Pump Use FAQ’s
How much electricity does a heat pump use per month?
A heat pump can use up to 300 kWh of electricity per month. The energy consumption may vary depending on the size of the place, type of heating source and monthly usage.
Can A Heat Pump Replace A Combi Boiler?
Yes, heat pumps are the perfect eco-friendly replacement for combi boilers. They produce 300x times of output compared to regular gas boilers or furnaces.
Are Ground Source Heat Pumps Any Good?
Yes, ground source heating pumps are very efficient and good. They are completely safe and produce 300% more heat compared to gas or oil furnaces.
They last longer and require less maintenance.
The only drawback is they are very expensive to install and require a wide space.
Are Ground Source Heat Pumps Noisy?
No, ground-based heat pumps are not noisy at all. They are installed about 100 to 200 meters deep in the ground. That’s why they don’t produce any noticeable sound.
Are Air Source Heat Pumps Expensive To Run?
No, air-source heating pumps are very pocket friendly. They produce heat energy using the wind. They are also sustainable as they don’t cost much to run.
Are Air Source Heat Pumps Noisy?
Yes, air source pumps can be noisy. They can make sounds up to 65 dB. The noise may vary depending on the company and the size of your heat pump.
Can A Heat Pump Heat A Whole House?
Yes, a heat pump can heat up the whole house. It is efficient enough to fulfill your hot water needs and floor heating.
Can You Install A Heat Pump In A Flat?
Yes, heat pumps can be installed in any type of property. You can install it in your garden or air source pump in any small place like a terrace.
How Do Heat Pumps Work?
A heat pump captures heat from the outside source i.e. ground or air. Then, it transfers the heat energy to buildings keeping them warm.
Contrary to popular belief, It does not break the law of thermodynamics.
What Are The Disadvantages Of A Heat Pump?
A heat pump is expensive to install. Then, they are not carbon zero. They still use an electric form of energy and emit greenhouse gasses.
Furthermore, they require professional assistance to install, which can be costly.
Wrapping It Up!
In a nutshell, heat pumps are not expensive at all. They can consume 4000 kWh to 5000 kWh of energy annually.
On average, using them for 8 hours per day can cost you around £100 – £120 per month. It mainly varies depending on the size of your property and peak and off-peak electricity rates.
Lastly, buying them may cost you a fortune, but in the long run, you will get maximum benefits.
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