A typical unit for a residential house is about the same size as a fridge.

Our domestic heat pumps are designed to run on standard single phase supply. For larger commercial units, a three phase supply may be necessary.

In most other parts of Europe the use of heat pumps is widespread. It is a proven, cost-effective, safe system that is now installed in tens of thousands of homes around the world. The technology is based on the same principles as a fridge, but in reverse.

It is quite possible that a heat pump can be fitted retrospectively. The efficiency of the system, and thus the running costs, will depend on how well insulated and draught proofed the property is. The cost of the system is in proportion to its size, so a property with a high heat loss would need a larger system to heat it, thus incurring a higher outlay. it is possible that with some investment in insulation etc, a heat pump system would become a viable option.

Although a heat pump system works best with underfloor heating, due to the lower operating temperatures, using radiators with a heat pump is still possible. The radiators would need to be of a higher output/larger size than they would otherwise be with a conventional boiler.

The heat pump can be installed within the house, e.g. in a boiler room or utility room, or outside in a garage. Some owners have built a small well-insulated external enclosure for the heat pump, to save space.

It is possible that an experienced plumber could install your system, but for getting the maximum efficiency from your system it is important that the installer has a thorough understanding of flow rates etc…. etc etc

The alternatives to using ground loops as a heat collection method, are to either install boreholes, or to use an air source heat pump, requiring only enough space outside to fit an air handling unit.

There are no hazardous gas emmissions, no CO2 emmisions, no highly flammable oil/LPG/gas, no flue or chimney to leak, and no fuel tanks, so the systems are extremely safe.

Unlike conventional boilers, heat pumps do not require annual servicing. They benefit from regular checks, but this can mostly be carried out yourself. A heat pump system has a much longer life span (20-25 years) than the average boiler (10-15 years ).

The initial purchase cost of a heat pump will be higher than a conventional boiler. However, this initial higher expense is offset by the much lower running costs, lower maintenance and servicing requirements, and longer life span of the system. Additional benefits are that you are free from the inevitable hike in oil and gas prices over the coming years, and that should you choose to sell your property, the installlation of a heat pump system is reflected in the value of your property, increasing it’s value by around 3%.

No. They compare to the humming of your refrigerator.

Yes! thousands of heat pump systems are installed in the most northerly parts of Eurpope, where the systems were developed, and where the winters are very cold and long.