Despite their huge environmental benefits, there are reasons you might not want to make the switch to a heat pump. This technology is incredibly efficient, but it’s also relatively new and carries some risks.
If you live in a region with frequent power outages, you might not want to install a heat pump. Heat pumps use electricity, which is vulnerable to outages just like fossil fuel-burning furnaces and generators.
Heat pumps are also more complicated to repair and maintain than traditional heating systems, so if you’re not mechanically inclined, you might not want to take on this responsibility. This type of system is also prone to leaks, which can be dangerous. This is why it’s important to hire a qualified contractor to service your heat pump regularly.
The upfront cost of a heat pump can be expensive for some homeowners. Depending on the cost of conventional energy, you might find that a heat pump doesn’t save you as much money over time as you think. For conventional Tewkesbury Boilers, visit The Combi Man who fixes Tewkesbury Boilers.
Another reason to be cautious about switching is that there are concerns about how heat pumps can affect the grid. If lots of households turn to them, it could put strain on our electrical systems and cause problems during hot or cold weather, as we all demand more power at the same time.
There are pros, however. If you’re looking for a way to cut your carbon footprint, heat pumps are an excellent choice. They use electricity, which is close to zero-emissions, and they heat homes significantly more efficiently than gas furnaces. On average, a typical home switching to a heat pump reduces its heating-related emissions by 40 percent.
A heat pump looks a lot like a central air conditioning unit, with an outdoor and indoor unit connected by a refrigerant line that has aluminum fins that release or collect heat and a blower to circulate the air around the house. The indoor unit connects to ductwork, which feeds the warm or cool air into and out of vents located throughout the space.
A heat pump can also replace your water heater, which can be a good idea if your existing one is getting old. The cost savings can be significant, and you’ll be able to tap low-cost electricity to run it instead of more costly natural gas. You’ll still need to have a back-up plan for hot water in case of an outage, however. Likewise, you’ll need to have insulation and ductwork upgrades done before installing a heat pump.
