Hydronic is known for being one of the best heating and cooling systems, as you would presumably already be aware of if you’ve decided to read this article. But now you’re wondering if you can replace your hydronic heating boiler with a heat pump.
In short, yes, you can. There are, however, some important considerations to be aware of when researching your options to ensure that a heat pump is a viable option for your location, budget and existing home heating set-up.
This article will take a look at these key factors, along with the benefits and potential drawbacks of heat pumps.
- Important considerations when replacing a boiler with a heat pump
- Pros of making a heat pump your hydronic heating boiler replacement
- Potential drawbacks of a gas boiler replacement
Important considerations when replacing a boiler with a heat pump
If you’re looking to replace a gas boiler with a heat pump, these key factors need to be a part of your decision making.
System compatibility
Heat pumps typically produce a lower water temperature than a boiler. It’s a wise idea to ensure that your existing hydronic heating products, such as radiators, floor trenches, or underfloor heating, can operate efficiently and effectively at the lower temperature.
The specific temperatures you can expect from a heat pump will depend on the type of heat pump.
Type of heat pump
There are two main varieties of heat pump available on the market.
Air-source heat pumps
These products use the air outside of the home to draw in through the pump to generate heat. The temperatures they can heat water generally range from 35-60°c. Some air-source pumps can produce higher temperatures than this, but the efficiency of the pump decreases as the output temperature rises.
Ground-source heat pumps
Also referred to as geothermal heat pumps, these products draw energy from the ground to generate heat. They tend to hit slightly higher temperatures more efficiently than air-source pumps largely because the temperature of the ground is more consistent than the air. Expected temperatures can typically range from 40-50°c, but still lower than a traditional boiler.
Heating demand and efficiency
You will find that heat pumps are at their most efficient when they’re used in homes based in moderately cold climates. For regions that experience super cold winters, you may need to look at an additional heating source to ensure your heating needs are met.
As a general guideline, traditional air-source heat pumps can start to lose their efficiency at around 0°c.
Environmental impact and running costs
Heat pumps are able to deliver heat at 600% efficiency, so from an environmental perspective they are the top choice. When it comes to running costs, heat pumps are known to be around 40% cheaper than hydronic heating gas boilers, but they still require electricity to operate, which can still add up given the current state of energy prices. Your best bet is to team your heat pump with renewable energy, such as solar panels and a battery, to store for your sundown power needs.
Local regulations and incentives
Some council areas may have specific regulations regarding the installation of heat pumps. Be sure to contact the relevant authorities in your local area before you commit to purchasing and installing. There might also be financial incentives on offer to those who choose heat pumps for their residential property.
Pros of making a heat pump your hydronic heating boiler replacement
As with any system or technology there are always debates about which heat source is best, and heat pumps versus boilers are no different. Some might call it a ‘heated debate’. Sorry, we couldn’t resist.
The biggest gold stars for heat pumps include the lower operating costs and amazing energy efficiency, the reduction to your carbon footprint, but also the fact that heat pumps have the ability to cool as well as heat your home. By reversing the pump operation, you score cool air, which is something a boiler can’t provide.
Potential drawbacks of a gas boiler replacement
In some instances, you might decide to replace your existing boiler with a newer model rather than switch to a heat pump. As with any technology, boilers have evolved a lot over the last few years to ensure they’re as efficient and cost effective to run as possible.
That aside, let’s look at some of the downsides of heat pumps:
Higher initial investment
The upfront cost of purchasing a heat pump far outweighs the price of a new boiler. Roughly speaking, you would be looking at needing to spend at least twice as much for a heat pump and you also need to factor in the cost of installation, which is best done by a hydronic heating professional.
If you’re planning on living in your property long term (ten years plus) then the cost of the pump is more justified financially. Shorter term plans, a modern boiler might be a better fit for you.
Performance in colder climates
If you’re living in an area with regular temps below zero, you might want to rethink the heat pump plan, or be prepared to have a secondary heat source to pair with it.
Space requirements
You will need to have enough room to adequately store your heat pump, with space around it for proper air circulation. Air-source heat pumps need to be placed outside of your home, whereas ground pumps need a significant amount of space underground to have the system installed.
Noise
Air-source heat pumps will generate noise as well as heat. If you’re living in close proximity to your neighbours, this might cause problems. You will also want to consider how close the pump is to your main living areas.
Retrofitting challenges
When trying to install a heat pump into an existing property with a system already in place, there can be significant modifications to the home required so the heat pump can work efficiently. These changes might include replacing products such as radiators that might only operate well at higher temperatures, beyond the capability of the heat pump.
Should you replace your boiler with a heat pump?
Ultimately, a heat pump can be a hydronic heater boiler replacement, so long as the existing system requirements, budget and location can support the switch. If you still have more questions for your specific home and requirements – our team are available to walk you through the best options for your home from products to heat sources and installation methods. Contact the team at Hunt Heating today, or visit one of our showrooms to see products in action.
