By 
We’ve all become very conscious of the world around us and the damage we inflict on the planet, which is leading many of you to look for eco-friendlier options. Unfortunately, cost also comes into the equation, along with one of the latest government initiatives. An announcement was made at the beginning of the year that implied gas boilers for water and central heating were looking to be phased out of new constructions in less than a decade. One alternative that’s being looked at by an increasing number of people is an air source heat pump.
What is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An air source heat pump takes in air from the outside of a building and turns it into energy by way of refrigerant fluid and a compressor. Air source heat pumps run on electricity, but it should use less energy than the heat produced.
Air source heat pumps take air in from outside your home in order to heat a liquid refrigerant. Electricity is used as the pump compresses the liquid in order to increase its temperature. It is then condensed back into a liquid and the stored hear released.
There are two different types of ASHP (Air Source Heat Pump) to choose from.
Air-to-water heat pump – these use the air from outside to heat up a water central heating system. You can save money on getting this type of system installed via the government’s Renewable Heat Incentive scheme.
Air-to-air heat pump – these use the heat from the air outside your home. It is fed into your home via a series of fans.
The cost of installing either of these systems can be sizeable, and it may take a number of years to recoup the cost of installing a new system or replacing your old one. installing such a heating system can also work out to be more expensive that installing a new gas boiler. However, one of the benefits of an air-to-air pump system, for example, is that it can be used in reverse. In other words, when the weather is warm it can be used in the same way as an air-conditioner.
Air Source Heat Pump vs. Gas Boiler
There are several costs to take into consideration if you want to compare these two types of heating system.
Energy Efficiency
An air source heat pump is far more efficient because it absorbs heat that occur naturally outside your home and simply moves it indoors.
Lifespan
On average, a heat pump lasts between 3 and 7 years longer than a traditional gas boiler.
Initial cost
The quickest and cheapest option for heating your home is a gas boiler, provided you have access to a mains gas supply. Installing an air source heat pump is far more expensive, however, you can reclaim a large portion of the cost by claiming a Renewable Heat Incentive.
Running cost
The cost of the electricity used to power this type of heating system is more expensive that gas. However, because the pumps are so efficient the running costs are virtually the same.
Now you know the facts you’re in a better position to make an informed decision. If you want to know more, get in touch with EOC services.
