Long Term Sustainable Energy
Heat pumps are becoming one of the most efficient and environmentally friendly ways of heating your home or business within the Code for Sustainable Homes.
What is a heat pump?
Heat pumps are not like other renewable systems. They do not rely on the weather as a source of power and provide constant all year round heating.
Why use heat pumps?
The demand for renewable energy is at an all time high and people are now looking for ways to reduce their carbon foot print. Research has show that heat pumps are 400% efficient compared to a conventional boiler which is only about 90%. The Renewable Advisory Board (RAB) who advise the Government on renewable energy issues feel very positive about Heat Pumps as they are most likely to achieve the renewable savings under the Code for Sustainable Homes.
Is it easy to use?
The heat pump can be easily fitted within any property. The air source heat pump, which requires an air handling unit located outside of the property, is becoming the most popular with building designers as there are no ground works or land required to fit them, this makes them very popular for inner cite and commercial use.
If land is available then a heat pump can be fitted at the property by digging 1m trenches and a loop of pipe is then buried into a garden or field.
How does it work?
The heat pump works by driving a refrigerant around a circuit that contains an compressor, condenser, evaporator and expansion valve. The fluid changes from liquid to gas by evaporation as heat is absorbed from the ground, air heat source or water. The gas is then compressed which creates very high temperatures and the heat is transferred into the heating system and hot water tank.
Independent energy assessors can provide SAP calculations to ensure that the output of energy is correct to the energy lost from the building.
The heat pump is now seen as a vital part of a buildings design and once fitted clients can expect to save up to 75% on carbon emissions and fuel bills. Micro renewable technologies such as solar power and wind turbines can also be used to drive the heat pumps which will make any new or refurbished building almost carbon neutrality which could mean a huge reduction in our carbon footprint.
