Installing a heat pump? Questions I now know to ask

In June my home decarbonisation journey reached a major milestone with the installation of a heat pump for my heating and hot water. I knew very little about how they worked and what to expect, and information was not, and still isn't, easy to come by. Looking back, there are a number of questions I would now want to explore with the installers in more detail before making a decision:

guangteng contains other products and information you need, so please check it out.

1. What size heat pump does my home need?

2. How efficient is the heat pump?

3. How will the heat pump be controlled?

4. What will the heat pump look like when installed?

First, some context. My home is a 120 year old mid-terrace made of sandstone, very typical for the city of Glasgow where I live. The roof has a decent level of insulation and the windows are a mix of double- and triple-glazed, but the walls and floors are uninsulated. My heating and hot water was provided by a relatively efficient gas combi boiler. It worked well and gave no fuss, but I wanted to get rid of gas. So after replacing our gas cooker for induction, installing a heat pump was the next task.

Finding an installer (a lesson in time-wasting and frustration, and then serendipity)

It wasn't easy securing quotes. Is it ever? I contacted a number of installers via the Energy Saving Trust Installer Finder. Some never replied, others did and either said my home wasn't suitable for a heat pump or only offered a hybrid system, a heat pump and gas boiler combined. After many months of searching I eventually secured a quote for a 17 kW heat pump, about the largest on the market. It didn't seem unreasonable - my home is old and not strongly insulated - but I wanted a second opinion.

In a rare moment of internet serendipity, an exchange on LinkedIn led me to a company outside of my original search zone. They conducted a full heat demand assessment of my home, seemed very competent and knowledgeable, and proposed a smaller 13.5 kW unit. Why was this?

Question 1: What size heat pump does my home need?

Heat pumps are sized, as I learned, to meet peak heating demand, the level of heat required on the coldest day of the year. Glaswegians will probably disagree, but the city has a relatively mild climate. It doesn't often snow, and when it does, it doesn't last for too long. The outside temperature used to determine peak heating demand was -4C, which is at the lower end of the temperature I've experienced since living here. The inside temperatures were set to 21C for all living rooms, 18C for all other rooms, and 22C for the bathroom. This means that the heat pump has to generate sufficient heat to deliver up to a 25C rise in temperature, a little less if looking at the average temperature for the house.

The design temperatures are warmer than we usually keep our house but installers design around the house rather than personal usage following MCS guidance. For home owners to receive the heat pump financial support currently availably in the UK, installers need to be MCS certified and follow MCS guidance.

Based on the design temperatures, the size of my home (approx. 160 square meters), and assumptions made around insulation levels and air-tightness, peak heat demand was estimated to be 9.5 kW, far lower than the first quote I received.

To recap:

- Quote 1 was for a 17 kW heat pump for a peak demand of 14 kW

- Quote 2 was for a 13.5 kW heat pump for a peak demand of 9.5 kW

I went with the second as it also matched more closely with an independent heat demand assessment from Glasgow based Loco Home, a cooperative for supporting homeowners with retrofit (they are brilliant).

Why the big difference in the estimates? Two main influencing factors are the levels of insulation and airtightness. The second quote assumed a higher level of air-tightness based on experience of fitting heat pumps into older homes like mine that had been modernised, and also assumed a higher level of thermal performance from the uninsulated sandstone walls. This resulted in a lower estimate peak heat demand and a smaller heat pump.

To give a sense of the impact of insulation, not long before the heat pump was installed I upgraded the windows in two rooms from double- to triple-glazed. These measures brought the peak heat demand down from 9.5 kW to below 9 kW.

The design also recommended upgrading 6 of the 13 radiators to larger units, and for an additional radiator in the main living room as there was no space to upgrade the existing one. Crucially, the pipework was assessed to be just about adequate avoiding the need for any upgrading and all of the disruption and additional expense that would have caused (phew).

Newly installed triple-panel radiator

Question 2: How efficient is the heat pump?

If you care about energy costs, efficiency is crucial. While gas boilers deliver heat at far less than 100% efficiency, heat pumps can deliver efficiencies of around 300-400%, and more. The level of efficiency is known as the coefficient of performance (COP), and means that for every kW of electricity the heat pump will generate 3 to 4 kWs of heat. Today's energy prices mean that gas is around 3-4 times cheaper than electricity, so a well designed heat pump delivering around 300-400% efficiency can keep a home just as warm as gas for around the same energy costs, and even generate savings at higher levels of efficiency.

At this half way point in the heating season my heat pump is delivering a seasonal COP (or SCOP) of 380% and I suspect this will increase to over 400% by the time the heating season ends. At this level of efficiency I will definitely be saving on running costs as I show in this post and in the charts below.

Heat pumps are not all made equally, so check the efficiency of the unit and ask the installer why it's being recommended over others. You can also find technical details of all MCS certified heat pumps on their website.

My total household energy consumption and costs over four years, the first three with a gas boiler and the most recent year with a heat pump. Hatched areas are estimates.

Question 3: How will the heat pump be controlled?

In a complete facepalm moment, I didn't even think about asking this question until the day the installation was finished and the van drove away (the handover process was not optimal).

Like many households, our previous gas combi was operated by a wireless indoor thermostat that allowed different temperatures and times to be set. The heat pump had no indoor thermostat, only an outdoor thermometer and a control panel fitted in the 'plant room' as the installers called it (see photo below), essentially the cupboard where the new hot water cylinder, water circulation pumps, and expansion vessels were sited, everything needed in addition to the heat pump unit itself.

The 'plant room' - never imagined I've have one of those

Having the control panel located outside of the main core of the house doesn't make it particularly accessible but also isn't problematic, at least in my case. An additional control unit could be installed in a more convenient location but it only comes in a wired version with my heat pump, meaning channelling or trunking would be needed. An app is also available but for that to work an additional unit is needed, further adding to the costs. Some heat pump makes offer different (better?) controls, so this is definitely an area to look into.

Control location and apps aside, a much larger adjustment is needed with operating the heat pump without an indoor thermostat and relying instead on weather compensation and heating curves. Explaining how this all works would need a lengthy post in itself - you can read my short post to learn more along with more in-depth (and more expert) articles such as this one by Heat Geek. The upshot is though that the system works, and works well. All it took was a bit of experimentation to find the right heating curve and temperature settings. Our home is heated to the level we want irrespective of the outside temperatures, even when it drops to below zero as it has a couple of times this winter. The heating curve adjusts the temperature of the water it sends to the radiators according to the outside temperature, with colder days delivering hotter water.

The other difference with a heat pump is how we operate it. With our gas boiler, at nighttime we would either set a low temperature or switch it off altogether. Now with the heat pump we run it 24/7 and set different target temperatures at night and during the day within quite a narrow range of only a couple of degrees. Widening the range between these temperatures would cause the heat pump to have to work harder to deliver the daytime temperature, lowering the efficiency. The higher the temperature gradient the heat pump needs to push up, the hotter it will need to heat the water temperature, and hotter water equals lower efficiency.

There is a learning curve to climb with heat pump operation but not a especially steep one as core functions are the same as for gas heating, such as target temperatures and timers. Installers could (and should) help though and take away a lot of the mystery by explaining in advance how controls work and then again once the system is installed. They should also explain the controls that will come with the heat pump, where they might be sited, and whether there are options to increase accessibility, such as apps and web applications. If they don't explain, push for answers.

Question 4: How will the heat pump look when installed?

Personally I think aesthetics matter, and some heat pumps are, at least in my view, nicer looking than others. If the unit is visible then you might want to consider choosing a model that you like the looks of. Think about size also and imagine it in the location where it will be installed. Some units have double fans to generate higher heat output, and these will be far more of a visible presence. My heat pump offers the heat output I need from a single fan whereas other models would only deliver the heat output from a double-fan unit. This is part of the reason why the installer recommended the model they did, as the unit is quite visible from both inside and outside of my home. It is though a relatively large single fan unit and has taken a little while to get used to having a large appliance in our back garden. Now I hardly notice it. Visual impact is also a small price to pay compared to having a gas-free home and lower energy costs.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Advanced technology evi heat pump vendor.

The market is moving quickly, technology is always improving. Looking at heat pumps available now, less than one year on, there are more compact models that would meet my heat demand.

Newly installed heat pump - prettier than a garden gnome?

Those are the main questions I would ask from the outset. Other include:

What refrigerant does the heat pump use? This is the fluid at the heart of the system, and acts to transfer heat from the outside air (or ground or water) to the inside of your home. There are many different kinds of refrigerants and all are polluting to varying degrees, although the most environmentally damaging ones causing a depletion of ozone have now been phased out. As refrigerants contribute to global warming if released to the atmosphere, and because some are worse than others, it's worth finding out which one your heat pump uses. Some of the least harmful refrigerants are, somewhat counter-intuitively, fossil fuel based. Bear in mind though that the volume of refrigerant is exceedingly small and is constantly recycled, compared to the continuous burning of fossil gas or oil in a boiler. But given a choice, why not choose the least harmful refrigerant?

Will a buffer tank be installed? Our installer planned to fit one initially but when I questioned whether it was needed they explained I could operate the system without one - and that it would be more efficient - as long as I kept a certain number of radiators open at all times, i.e. they were not closed off with thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs). By not installing a buffer tank we saved money and space, and improved efficiency.

Is there a good operation manual? The manual that comes with my heat pump is quite basic and doesn't get into the level of detail needed to fully understand how to operate it. For that I need to search across 3 different manuals, including a very technical commissioning manual. Ask to see manuals in advance and read them as part of making a decision.

What happens if the heat pump breaks down? My heat pump comes with 2 years parts and labour warranty, and 7 years cover on parts. My installer also offers a regular service contract, as does the manufacturer. It's worth making sure you feel confident that you can get the support you need, when you need it. I can also up or my heat pump manufacturer with technical support questions, a service I have found to be very helpful, although admittedly I wouldn't have needed to use it as much as I have if the manuals were better and the installer did a better job of handover.

These are the main questions I would ask if I was starting out again. If I think of others I'll keep adding to this post, and I'm also happy to correct or clarify any points, so let me know what you think.

While I now feel better equipped to ask the right questions, I have no regrets at all with the choices I made. The design was strong, the install was done to a high standard, the heat pump is good quality and comes with good controls, and the support came through when needed. Plus, we all learned a lot along the way. Crucially, the heat pump is performing well, even in an old home like mine. Despite what you might hear, there is ample evidence to show that heat pumps are suitable for all types of UK homes. They key is to choose a good installer and good equipment. Asking the right questions can help a lot in building confidence by becoming a more intelligent consumer.

Taking a step back and seeing the bigger picture, my home is warmer and more comfortable for lower energy consumption and lower energy costs, and importantly I am no longer burning any gas directly in my home.

All good reasons to make the switch.

Did you know that last year, there were approximately 190 million heat pump units in operation in buildings around the world?

You&#;re looking for the best heat pump service provider, but you don&#;t know where to start. Choosing the wrong provider can be costly and frustrating. Not only will you have to pay for their services, but you might also have to deal with subpar performance or even system damage.

But don&#;t worry. Keep reading and ask these questions before deciding on a heat pump service provider to make sure you&#;re making the best decision for your home and your wallet.

Top Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Heat Pump Services Provider

Now that you&#;ve decided to hire a heat pump service provider and HVAC specialist, it&#;s important to take the time to ask some key questions. These questions will ensure that you&#;re making the best choice for your needs and budget.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Before selecting a heat pump service provider, it is essential to make sure they have the necessary credentials such as being both licensed and insured. This offers peace of mind and security, knowing that you are in the hands of a reputable company with parts and labor covered if something happens during their time working on your property.

It also gives you protection if there are any issues or disputes regarding payments or services received after completion. Ultimately, when looking for reliable heating solutions, checking for licensure and insurance coverage should be at the top of your list.

2. How Long Have You Been in Business?

Having a detailed knowledge of how to properly take care of a heat pump system is important to keep costs and energy usage low. For this reason, we highly recommend asking your heat pump service provider how long they have been in business.

This can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you&#;re working with experienced and knowledgeable professionals who are familiar with the most recent available options for your system. Even if a service provider may be relatively new to the industry, their time served as well as any specialized training can tell you a great deal about the quality of service you can expect from them.

3. Do You Offer Any Guarantees?

When considering which repair provider to use, an important question to ask is whether the service comes with any sort of guarantee. This can provide peace of mind knowing that if the repair fails or something else goes wrong (perhaps due to a faulty part or improper installation) then you won&#;t be stuck paying for a new round of repairs.

However, it&#;s important to find out exactly what kind of warranty is offered in case there are any strange conditions or limited coverage periods. Taking a few extra minutes to look into this could save you a lot of trouble and money down the line!

4. What Type of Maintenance Do You Offer?

Regular maintenance of your heat pump is key to ensuring it runs smoothly year-round. Therefore, make sure the provider offers the specific kind of maintenance that you need to keep your system up and running. This can include cleaning coils; changing filters; inspecting for any worn or broken parts; and adjusting components such as fans, motors, or refrigerant charge, if necessary.

Be sure to inquire about periodic checkups and ask for a description of the services being provided with each service call so you know exactly what work will be completed.

5. Can I Get a Price Estimate Before Work Starts?

When it comes to heating and cooling systems, you don&#;t want to be caught off guard in terms of budget. It&#;s always a good idea to ask for an estimated quote before any work is begun on the system so that you can know exactly how much money you&#;ll need to get the job done.

This can save a lot of frustration in the long run, especially since these types of projects can quickly become expensive. If your technician provides you with an accurate quote upfront, you&#;ll have no worries about being hit with hidden fees or extra charges that weren&#;t discussed.

In the end, this will save you both time and money and ensure that the job runs smoothly from start to finish.

6. Do You Provide 24/7 Emergency Services?

In case of an unexpected breakdown or malfunction of your heat pump system, it is important to know whether your service provider offers 24/7 emergency services should they arise. This way, you can ensure that any critical issues are taken care of as soon as possible and within the shortest amount of time.

7. Are There Any Additional Fees I Should Be Aware Of?

Ask your heat pump service provider to provide a full breakdown of all the fees associated with their services. This will help you avoid any additional fees that may arise after the work is completed. It is also important to inquire about any discounts or promotions they may have available that can help reduce the overall costs.

Benefits of Choosing a Heat Pump Service Provider

Now that you know the top questions to ask before making your decision, let&#;s look at some of the amazing benefits you&#;ll see. They include:

Peace of Mind

Finding peace of mind when it comes to important services like heating and cooling can be difficult. After all, the right professionals need to be hired and you need to trust that they will do their job correctly. At Heat Pump Providers, we take both qualities of service and customer trust seriously.

We strive to provide our clients with comfort in knowing that their heat pump systems are being maintained by our highly trained staff. You don&#;t have to worry about a thing when using our services because we only staff experienced professionals who understand all aspects of heat pumps, from installation to maintenance and repair.

Whenever you call on us for your heating and cooling needs, you can have complete assurance in knowing that your system is ready for regular use.

Cost Savings

By selecting a reliable and trustworthy heat pump service provider, you can save yourself time and money. It is important to find a provider who will not charge extra for simple repairs and will use high-quality parts for more complex maintenance so that the heat pump remains in proper working order.

With the right service provider on your side, it is possible to reduce repair costs without compromising quality. Furthermore, they may be able to identify potential problems early before they occur which can prevent expensive repairs in the future.

A little research now can pay dividends down the road with cost savings and a well-maintained heat pump system.

Time-Saving

Sometimes it takes more time to do something that is supposed to save time. This can make it hard to get things done. But if you get help from someone who knows what they are doing, it can save you a lot of time.

When you need help taking care of your heat pump system, it is a good idea to ask people who have a lot of experience. They will know how to do things more quickly and efficiently, and they can help you avoid having to spend a lot of time on repairs and maintenance.

Plus, an expert who is familiar with either specific or multiple types of heat pump models can spot future problems before they escalate as well as make sure your system is running safely at peak performance levels. Time is often considered one of the most precious commodities &#; don&#;t let yours go to waste!

Energy Efficiency

It is well worth the investment to make sure your heating and cooling systems are running at peak efficiency. Not only will this help to reduce energy costs significantly, but it also makes good environmental sense.

With a professional assessment of your overall energy needs and an update or replacement of aged equipment, it is possible to reduce your total carbon footprint while still having comfortable temperatures in your home or business. Of course, the best way to maintain efficient performance is with regular maintenance and filter changes.

Smart thermostats offer additional ways to regulate temperatures, allowing you to customize comfort levels and save money on utility bills. Small investments in energy efficiency can make a big difference over time, both for your wallet as well as for the environment.

Find the Right Heat Pump Service for You

When it comes to finding the best heat pump service provider, be sure to ask lots of questions. By getting answers to these key questions, you can feel confident that you&#;re making the right decision for your needs.

We know that residential heat pumps can be a challenge to manage yourself, but you don&#;t have to do it alone any longer. Let our contractors at KD Mechanical run our proven maintenance programs for your new heat pump! Schedule servicing or request a quote today.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Advanced technology evi heat pump wholesale. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.