What is renewable energy?

Harnessing energy from renewable, natural sources like the sun, wind, and water can help reduce your energy bills and lower your carbon emissions. Let’s explore how it works and which options might be best for you.

What is Renewable Energy?

Renewable energy comes from sources that are either inexhaustible or naturally replenished. These sources typically produce little to no carbon emissions, earning them the label "green" or "clean" energy. Common sources include:

  • Solar Energy: Harnessing power from the sun.
  • Wind Power: Using wind to generate electricity.
  • Hydroelectric and Tidal Energy: Capturing energy from water movement.
  • Geothermal Energy: Tapping into heat from inside the earth.

What is Non-Renewable Energy?

In contrast, non-renewable energy comes from sources that are finite and do not replenish naturally. These sources often produce high levels of carbon dioxide and include:

  • Coal and Peat
  • Natural Gas
  • Petroleum

Burning these fuels releases greenhouse gases, driving climate change. Transitioning to renewable energy is a critical step in combating the climate emergency.

Benefits of Generating Renewable Energy at Home

Generating your own renewable energy offers several advantages:

  1. Lower Energy Bills: Powering your home or electric vehicle with self-generated electricity reduces reliance on grid-supplied energy.
  2. Reduced Carbon Emissions: By using green energy, you contribute to a cleaner environment.
  3. Energy Independence: With renewable energy and storage solutions, you can maximise the use of the energy you generate.

Choosing the Right Renewable Energy for Your Home

Different renewable technologies come with unique benefits. The best choice depends on your property and location. Explore the options below:

Solar Energy

Solar panels, or photovoltaics (PV), capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. They work even on cloudy days and provide free energy once installed. Solar panels are a practical choice for many homes and are the UK's most popular renewable energy source.

Wind Power

Wind turbines generate electricity by using wind to turn rotor blades, which drive a turbine. While domestic wind turbines are not ideal for urban areas, they can be effective in open, windy locations. Like sunlight, wind is free, making this a cost-effective option once installed.

Hydroelectricity

If you live near a flowing river or stream, a hydroelectric system may be suitable. These systems use water flow to turn a turbine, generating electricity. However, not all watercourses are consistent year-round, so careful assessment is necessary.

Low Carbon Heating Options

While not strictly renewable, low-carbon heating systems offer an efficient alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based heating. Options include:

  • Air Source Heat Pumps: Extract heat from the air to warm your home efficiently.
  • Micro Combined Heat and Power (Micro-CHP): Generate electricity and heat simultaneously, reducing overall energy use.

Get Started

Choosing the right system depends on your property and location. To discuss suitable technologies for your home, contact us here.

* All energy and performance claims are based on our own energy assessments and live monitoring of energy consumption.

by Dean Barton

How much is a heat pump grant?

What exactly is a heat pump grant and how much is it?

This article covers everything you need to know.

What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a government initiative designed to provide financial support for property owners in England and Wales, enabling the adoption of low-carbon heating technologies. This scheme plays a vital role in decarbonising homes and helping the UK achieve its net-zero emissions targets.

To help the UK meet its net-zero carbon emissions goals, the government is encouraging homeowners to replace traditional fossil fuel boilers with energy-efficient alternatives, such as heat pumps. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme BUS offers grants to make low-carbon heating installations more affordable by offsetting the higher upfront costs of systems like heat pumps.

The scheme, running until 2028, is supported by a £1.5 billion budget as part of a broader £4 billion strategy to reduce emissions. Additionally, installations of energy-saving materials, including heat pumps, benefit from 0% VAT until March 2027.

What are Low-Carbon Heating Technologies?

Low-carbon heating systems are designed to minimise environmental impact while efficiently heating your home. Common technologies include:

  • Heat Pumps: These systems harness energy from natural resources like air, ground, or water to provide heating and hot water. They are highly efficient and suitable for a wide range of properties. Options include both Air Source Heat Pumps and Ground Source Heat Pumps.
  • Biomass Boilers: These boilers use renewable energy by burning organic materials such as wood pellets or logs, offering a sustainable alternative for off-grid properties.

How Does the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Work?

The scheme is installer-led, meaning your accredited installer applies for a grant voucher on your behalf. After your low-carbon heating system is installed, the grant amount is deducted from the upfront cost, making it more accessible for homeowners.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Consultation: An accredited installer assesses your property and advises on suitable systems.
  2. Application: The installer applies for the BUS grant on your behalf through Ofgem, the scheme administrator.
  3. Installation: The grant amount is discounted from the total installation cost.

This streamlined process ensures that switching from fossil fuel boilers to greener alternatives is simpler and more affordable.

What Funding is Available?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides the following grants to eligible property owners:

  • £7,500 for installing an air source heat pump.
  • £7,500 for installing a ground source or water source heat pump.
  • £5,000 for installing a biomass boiler (only for properties off the gas grid).

These grants significantly reduce the cost of adopting low-carbon heating systems. Keep in mind:

  • Biomass boilers are eligible only for rural, off-grid properties.
  • Only accredited Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) installers can apply for these grants.

Who Can Apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

In order to qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Property Criteria:

  • The property must be located in England or Wales.
  • Owners of domestic and small non-domestic properties are eligible.
  • The property must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) issued within the last 10 years. Exceptions apply for custom-build properties.

Technology Criteria:

  • The heating system must fully replace an existing fossil fuel system (e.g., oil, gas, or direct electric heating).
  • The installation must meet the full heating and hot water needs of the property.
  • Eligible systems include heat pumps with a capacity of up to 45kW and shared ground loops up to 300kW for ground source systems.
  • Systems must not have been installed or commissioned within the past 120 days.

Note: Hybrid systems combining fossil fuels with heat pumps are not eligible unless the heat pump meets 100% of the heating and hot water requirements.

Start Your Heat Pump Journey

You can contact us here, to speak with one of our expert installers and explore your options.

by Dean Barton

Supplier Spotlight: Vaillant Group

Vaillant Group are one of our trusted suppliers at Custom Renewables.

When it comes to recommending the right heat pump to our customers, It's important to us that we provide the most efficient and cost effective system. We only work with the highest quality brands.

This article explains some of the reasons why Vaillant Group heat pumps are a smart choice for your home.

Vaillant Group heat pumps are redefining the future of home heating, combining advanced technology, environmental responsibility, and exceptional versatility.

Here’s why they stand out:

1. Environmentally Friendly Innovation

The Vaillant Group is committed to sustainability, and this ethos is evident in their latest-generation heat pumps. These systems use a cutting-edge natural coolant with an impressively low global warming potential (GWP). By choosing a Vaillant heat pump, you’re not just investing in a reliable heating system but you are also making an eco-conscious choice that helps to reduce your carbon footprint.

But the environmental benefits don’t stop there. The natural coolant also enables high flow temperatures, ensuring optimal performance even in colder weather. This means that Vaillant heat pumps aren’t just limited to modern homes and are also perfect for older, less insulated properties that require more robust heating solutions.

2. High Performance and Year-Round Comfort

Vaillant heat pumps are designed to deliver both heating and hot water efficiently and effectively, no matter the season. The combination of innovative engineering and smart design ensures your home stays warm and comfortable, while your energy usage remains efficient.

This versatility is particularly important for homeowners looking for a heating solution that bridges the gap between sustainability and practicality. By offering reliable performance across a range of property types, Vaillant heat pumps provide peace of mind, knowing that your home’s heating needs are in capable hands.

3. Cutting-Edge Features for Modern Living

Vaillant’s heat pumps are not only efficient but also feature-forward, incorporating innovations that enhance their usability and environmental credentials:

  • aroTHERM plus: This model is one of the quietest heat pumps on the market. It makes it an excellent choice for residential areas where noise levels are a concern. The whisper-quiet operation ensures that comfort doesn’t come at the expense of peace and tranquility.
  • recoCOMPACT exclusive: This model shows Vaillant’s commitment to sustainability. It is designed to be 95% recyclable. This forward-thinking approach ensures that even at the end of its life cycle, the heat pump minimises its environmental impact, aligning with Vaillant’s long-term vision of a greener future.

4. A Trusted Legacy of Innovation

The Vaillant Group has long been a pioneer in heating technology. Their expertise in developing future-focused solutions is evident in their heat pumps. By investing in one of these systems, you’re choosing a product backed by decades of research, engineering, and a commitment to creating sustainable and efficient heating solutions.

5. An Ideal Choice for Every Home

Whether you live in a new-build property with modern insulation or an older home that requires higher heating output, these systems can be tailored to meet your specific requirements. With high flow temperatures and efficient operation, they’re versatile enough to adapt to any home.

Make the Switch to Sustainable Comfort

Choosing a Vaillant Group heat pump means investing in a heating solution that prioritises performance, sustainability, and comfort. With their quiet operation, environmentally friendly design, and adaptability to various home types, Vaillant heat pumps are a future-proof choice for any household.

Contact us today if you are interested in a heat pump for your home.

 

by Dean Barton

How much electricity does a heat pump use per month?

Using a heat pump is a significant step toward energy efficiency for your home. Unlike traditional heating systems, like gas boilers that typically operate at about 90% efficiency*, heat pumps can reach efficiency levels of up to 300%* or more. This means that for every 1 kW of electricity a heat pump consumes, it can produce approximately 3 kW of heat, offering triple the energy output from the energy input.

Average Electricity Consumption of a Heat Pump

In the UK, an average home typically requires around 12,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of heat per year to maintain comfortable temperatures. Given a heat pump’s efficiency, this translates to about 4,000 kWh of electricity used over a year. When broken down, this amounts to approximately 333 kWh of electricity per month. The actual monthly consumption does vary based on seasonal demands and external temperature fluctuations.

Monthly Variation in Electricity Use

A heat pump’s monthly electricity consumption will shift according to seasonal temperatures. During colder months, a heat pump has to work harder to draw warmth from the air or ground. This means it will use more electricity than in milder months. In the winter, particularly during extended cold spells, monthly consumption might exceed 333 kWh. In warmer months, it will likely be lower.

Factors Influencing Heat Pump Electricity Usage

Several factors affect how much electricity a heat pump will use, including:

Type of Heat Pump

There are two primary types of heat pumps: air source and ground source. Air source heat pumps extract heat from the air, while ground source heat pumps draw heat from the ground. Ground source heat pumps generally offer more stable efficiency in colder weather because ground temperatures tend to remain more constant throughout the year. However, they also require more substantial initial investment and installation space.

Size of the Heat Pump

The capacity and size of a heat pump should be tailored to meet the specific heating needs of your property. An undersized heat pump may struggle to heat the home adequately, requiring more electricity to compensate.  An oversized pump can lead to unnecessary energy use. Properly sizing the heat pump is essential for both efficiency and monthly cost-effectiveness.

Size of the Property 

Larger properties naturally require more energy to heat, so a heat pump in a large home will generally use more electricity than in a smaller one. Multi-level homes or properties with high ceilings may also require more heating power, especially in cold weather.

Home’s Energy Efficiency

The better insulated and sealed a home is, the less work a heat pump has to do to maintain comfortable temperatures. Homes with poor insulation, older windows, or drafts can lose heat quickly, forcing the heat pump to work harder and increasing electricity usage. Insulating walls, attics, and floors, and installing energy-efficient windows can greatly improve overall efficiency and reduce monthly electricity consumption.

Hot Water Usage

If your heat pump system also supplies hot water, the volume of hot water you use will impact electricity consumption. A household with high hot water usage—for example, with multiple showers and frequent use of appliances like dishwashers and washing machines—will see an increase in electricity consumption. Many heat pumps are equipped with a hot water tank that can help regulate and store hot water more efficiently, potentially lowering costs.

Practical Tips to Optimise Heat Pump Efficiency

To maximise efficiency and reduce the amount of electricity your heat pump uses each month:

Regular Maintenance

Keeping your heat pump clean and properly maintained will ensure it runs at peak efficiency. Regular maintenance includes checking filters, inspecting ducts, and ensuring fans and compressors are in good working condition. Many manufacturers recommend a professional check-up annually to keep the system running smoothly.

Use a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats can adjust heating schedules to avoid overuse and maintain efficient temperatures. They can learn your schedule and temperature preferences, so the heat pump only runs when necessary, potentially lowering monthly electricity usage.

Adjust Settings Seasonally

During milder seasons, lowering the thermostat or setting the heat pump to a more moderate temperature can reduce energy use. Small adjustments, such as reducing the thermostat by a couple of degrees, can make a big difference in monthly costs without compromising comfort.

By taking these factors into account, homeowners can gain a more accurate picture of how much electricity their heat pump will use each month and how to optimise it for savings.

Get In Touch

If you would like some technical help with a renewable energy installation, contact us today for expert advice from the Custom Renewables team.

* All energy and performance claims are based on our own energy assessments and live monitoring of energy consumption.

by Dean Barton

Advantages of Renewable Energy

Transitioning to renewable energy offers numerous benefits over traditional fossil fuels. This makes it a powerful solution for sustainability. Here are some of the major advantages of renewable energy:

1. Renewable Energy Sources Are Inexhaustible

As the name suggests, renewable energy sources are sustainable and won’t run out any time soon. For example, the sun is expected to provide energy for another 4.5 to 5.5 billion years, ensuring a consistent, renewable power source far into the future. This distinction between renewables and finite fossil fuels is one of the most compelling reasons to shift to sustainable energy.

2. Renewable Energy Is Reliable and StableFossil fuels are often subject to trade disputes, geopolitical conflicts, and price fluctuations. Renewable energy sources are widely available and less vulnerable to political issues. Although renewable resources may not be evenly distributed worldwide, with an interconnected and smart energy grid, these resources can be used to create a stable and reliable energy supply that isn’t easily disrupted by market or political instability.

3. Environmentally Friendly Energy Generation

Renewable energy technologies are clean and have a minimal impact on the environment. While some emissions are involved in manufacturing and maintaining renewable technology, they are negligible compared to the heavy emissions associated with fossil fuels. By switching to renewables, we can significantly reduce carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases. This helps to address environmental challenges like climate change, global warming, and poor air quality.

4. Renewable Energy Supports Public Health

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants leads to cleaner air and healthier soil, directly benefiting public health. By minimising pollution, we can reduce health issues like asthma, heart disease, and respiratory problems, which are often exacerbated by air pollution from fossil fuels. This healthier environment reduces the healthcare costs that individuals and governments must bear, improving the quality of life for everyone.

5. Renewable Energy Creates Jobs and Boosts Local Economies

In addition to its environmental benefits, renewable energy also offers economic opportunities. As the demand for clean energy grows, new jobs are created, particularly in underdeveloped areas. The renewable energy sector can empower communities by creating sustainable, well-paying jobs and reduce poverty in regions with high unemployment. Countries like the UK have seen job growth in the renewable sector, supported by government grants and policies that encourage green energy development. Another big advantage of renewable energy.

6. Lower Maintenance Costs with Renewable Technologies

Compared to traditional power plants, renewable energy technologies generally require less maintenance. For instance, solar panels operate without moving parts, and while wind turbines or hydropower plants may involve some mechanical components, they are generally more durable and require less upkeep than fuel-burning power stations. With fewer moving or combustible parts, renewable systems tend to have lower maintenance and repair costs, ultimately reducing their operational expenses over time.

7. Price Stability in the Energy Market

If you follow the news, you’ll know that fossil fuel prices can fluctuate dramatically due to global events and market demands. Renewable energy, however, can help stabilise these fluctuations. Once the infrastructure for renewables is in place, no further fuel costs are required, unlike traditional technologies that rely on costly fossil fuels. As more countries adopt renewables, the global energy market can become more stable and less susceptible to unpredictable price changes.

8. Increased Energy Independence

Countries without abundant fossil fuel resources can enhance their energy independence by building a renewable energy network. Locally generated renewable energy reduces the need for costly fuel imports, creating a more resilient energy infrastructure. By producing more energy domestically, countries can decrease their vulnerability to energy crises and improve their sustainable development.

9. Reducing Waste Through Renewable Technologies

With growing concerns over waste and landfills, certain renewable technologies offer a solution. Biomass energy, for example, can convert organic waste materials into fuel, effectively reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Biomass boilers can utilise used cooking oils, agricultural byproducts, and other organic waste, providing a dual benefit of waste reduction and clean energy production.

Conclusion

From reducing pollution and promoting health to creating jobs and supporting economic stability, renewable energy offers a wide range of advantages over traditional fossil fuels. By making the switch to renewables, we can move toward a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for generations to come.

If you are ready to make the switch to a renewable energy system, contact us today.

by Dean Barton

How long does a Heat Pump last?

Heat pumps are known for their durability and longevity, making them an excellent investment for long-term heating. While earlier models typically had a lifespan of around 15 years, advancements in technology have significantly increased their durability. Today’s heat pumps are built to last. Most modern units offer an impressive lifespan of 20 to 25 years before replacement may be necessary.

Why Are Heat Pumps So Long-Lasting?

The extended life of modern heat pumps is largely due to their streamlined design and robust components. With fewer complex, moving parts than traditional heating systems, there’s simply less that can malfunction. Newer models are particularly well-engineered to withstand continuous use with minimal wear and tear. However, it’s worth noting that the exact lifespan can vary depending on the model, manufacturer, and frequency of use. Regular maintenance, or a dedicated maintenance contract, can help keep your pump running at optimal efficiency. It may even extend its operational life.

Heat Pumps vs. Traditional Heating Systems

Compared to other heating options, such as oil, electric, and gas boilers, heat pumps are clear winners when it comes to longevity. Traditional heating systems often need significant repairs or replacement within 10 to 12 years. For example, older boilers may require replacement parts after just a decade of use. These parts may no longer be produced by the manufacturer, complicating repairs and extending downtime. Heat pumps, on the other hand, offer consistent, long-lasting performance with fewer disruptions, reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements.

Common Heat Pump Issues: The Compressor

In most cases, the compressor is the first component of a heat pump to experience wear and may eventually require replacement. The compressor is critical, as it’s responsible for increasing the refrigerant’s temperature to create the heat transferred into your home. Because the compressor is almost always in use, it’s prone to gradual wear and tear over time. When the compressor does wear out, there are two primary options. You can either replace just the compressor or consider replacing the entire system. If your heat pump is approaching the 20-year mark, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit, especially since newer models offer greater energy efficiency, which can lead to significant savings on your energy bills.

Warranties and Maintenance Plans

Heat pump warranties vary by manufacturer, but a typical warranty will cover replacement of defective parts for up to 5 years and include 1 year of labor for installing these replacements. Understanding the warranty terms for your unit is crucial for getting the most out of your investment. We make it a point to clearly explain the warranty details on any equipment we recommend, ensuring you know exactly what’s covered.

In addition to standard warranties, we also offer a Service & Maintenance plan designed to help you maximise the lifespan and efficiency of your heat pump. Routine maintenance services help keep your system in top condition, catching minor issues before they escalate and ensuring it continues to perform efficiently for years to come.

In Summary

Heat pumps provide a long-lasting, efficient heating solution with a lifespan of 20 to 25 years for most modern units. Their streamlined design, low maintenance needs, and strong warranties make them a reliable choice compared to traditional heating systems. With regular maintenance and the right care, a heat pump can offer decades of service, helping you reduce energy costs and enjoy dependable home heating.

If you are considering a heat pump for your home, get in touch with one of our expert installers who will be happy to assist you.

by Dean Barton

Where is the best place to put a Heat Pump?

There are a number of considerations when deciding the best place to put a heat pump.

Switching from a gas boiler to a heat pump involves some key differences to keep in mind. Whilst boilers are installed indoors, a heat pump unit is typically located outside your home.

Before installing an air source heat pump, careful planning of the unit's location is essential to ensure optimal energy efficiency and compliance with permitted development guidelines. Selecting the right spot with proper airflow and ventilation will enhance performance and energy savings.

What are the Installation Rules?

There are several guidelines outlined by local planning in the UK that you will need to comply with.

  • The heat pump should be at least 1 meter away from the property boundary.
  • It should not be installed on a listed building or scheduled monument without prior permission.
  • The unit must not be closer to a public road than the nearest part of the house (for properties within conservation areas or world heritage sites).
  • For flat roof installations, the heat pump should be at least 1 meter from the roof’s edge. Pitched roofs may require special permissions.

Beyond these rules, you generally have flexibility in selecting a suitable location. Our expert installers work closely with each of our customers to find a location that meets their individual requirements without compromising efficiency.

Key Factors for you to consider.

There are some key factors to consider when deciding the best place to put an air source heat pump.

Accessibility: An easily accessible location simplifies both installation and servicing. This reduces costs and downtime in case of repairs. Routine maintenance is essential for optimal performance, so accessible placement is advantageous.

Air Flow: Since air source heat pumps extract thermal energy from the air, the location should allow for excellent ventilation and airflow to support this process.

Quiet Location: Modern air source heat pumps are generally quiet, but they must pass a noise assessment test in the UK to ensure minimal disruption to neighbouring properties. Choose a location that minimises sound disturbance for both you and your neighbours.

Shelter: The unit should not be placed in a location that will limit airflow. However some shelter from harsh weather can help protect the pump. Raising the unit slightly off the ground may also help in areas prone to snow accumulation.

What Locations should you avoid?

To obtain optimal efficiency, there are several areas that we would recommend you avoid.

  • Tight Spaces: Confined spaces can limit airflow, impacting the unit's ability to function effectively.
  • Obstructed Areas: Air source heat pumps need unrestricted airflow. Avoid placing the unit near trees or structures that could block ventilation.
  • High Pollution Areas: In urban environments with high pollution, airborne particles may damage the pump and reduce its lifespan.
  • Flood-Prone Areas: For units installed at ground level, avoid areas susceptible to flooding to prevent water damage.
  • Weak Structural Walls: For wall-mounted units, ensure the wall is structurally sound to handle the unit's weight.
  • Noisy Locations: Whilst heat pumps aren’t exceptionally noisy, we would still recommend placing the unit away from bedrooms, neighbour’s property lines, or any area where sound might be disruptive.

What are the most suitable locations?

Here are some of the most suitable spots for installing your heat pump:

  • Garden: A large garden offers ample space for the outdoor unit, ensuring plenty of ventilation. This is the most common location.
  • Driveway: Many modern homes install heat pumps near driveways, typically on a wall at least 1m from the ground and away from electric vehicle charging stations.
  • Flat Roof: This location is less common but often used in areas prone to flooding. The pump must be at least 1 metre away from the roof edge.
  • Sheltered Area: If noise is a particular concern, you might consider a custom-built shelter that insulates sound but allows for proper airflow.

Summary

At Custom Renewables our award-winning installers can offer expert guidance on the most suitable installation location for your property. Contact us today to discuss your requirements.

 

by Dean Barton

Do Heat Pumps Require Servicing?

Just like gas and oil boilers, heat pump systems require annual servicing. This ensures they continue to operate efficiently throughout their lifespan.

Regular maintenance is essential for maximising the performance of your heat pump and avoiding costly, unexpected repairs. Without proper care, even the most advanced systems can face issues. These issues can reduce efficiency and increase operating costs.

Heat pumps are a reliable, eco-friendly way to provide heating and hot water, but they are complex systems. They depend on proper maintenance to function at their best. Annual servicing is not just a recommendation—it's crucial for meeting the standards set by various government schemes, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) Grant.

These schemes require you to have regular servicing to ensure your system is operating efficiently and in line with their guidelines, which can help you maintain financial incentives over time.

Routine maintenance helps identify and address potential performance issues before they escalate and cause further issues. For example, your heat pump may begin relying more on the immersion heater. This can lead to increased electricity consumption and reduced efficiency. In turn this causes higher energy costs and a less environmentally friendly system, defeating the purpose of installing a heat pump in the first place.

Our Maintenance and Service Plan

At Custom Renewables, we offer a comprehensive Maintenance and Service Plan with every heat pump installation. Our plan is designed to provide a dependable, professional, and cost-effective service. It ensures that your heat pump operates at its peak performance throughout the year. From cleaning filters to checking fluid levels and ensuring the system's components are in optimal condition. Our service plan covers all the necessary maintenance tasks.

We pride ourselves on not only ensuring that our customers have the most efficient heating system at the time of installation but also ensuring that efficiency is maintained for years to come. By investing in routine servicing, you can extend the life of your heat pump, maintain its energy efficiency, and avoid costly repairs down the line. With Custom Renewables, you can rest easy knowing that your home’s heating system is in capable hands.

If your existing heat pump requires a service, contact us today and we’ll be happy to assist.

 

by Dean Barton

Are Heat Pumps Noisy?

When considering a heat pump for your home, you might wonder just how noisy it could be. Fortunately, both air source and ground source heat pumps are typically quieter than most gas boilers. The actual noise level can vary depending on the model and size of the heat pump, but in general, most are surprisingly quiet and cause minimal disruption.

So How Noisy Is an Air Source Heat Pump?

If you're looking into installing an air source heat pump, noise is a natural concern.

In the UK, a legal noise limit of 42 decibels (dB) applies to heat pumps, measured from the nearest property boundary.

To give you a little more context, we’ve compared the noise levels of heat pumps to some other household sounds so you can get a sense of what to expect.

Here’s a quick comparison of other household sounds to give you a clearer idea:

Sound Volume (in dB)
Laptop 40 dB
Heat pump (legal limit) 42 dB
Refrigerator 42 dB
Dishwasher 65 dB
Hoover 85 dB
Hair dryer 90 dB

In summary, 42 dB is similar to the soft hum of a refrigerator or a laptop running. You’re likely to barely notice the sound, and it’s unlikely to disturb anyone nearby.

Will a Heat Pump disturb your Neighbours?

When installed correctly, heat pumps shouldn’t pose any issues for neighbours in terms of noise. At the legal noise limit of 42 dB at the property boundary, the sound will blend into the environment.

If you’re mindful of placement and use one of our experienced installers, you’ll be able to install a unit that balances effective heating with minimal noise, keeping everyone happy.

Are Heat Pumps Louder Than Air Conditioners?

When comparing heat pumps to air conditioning units, you’ll find that noise levels are often similar. However, the exact volume will depend on the specific models and power ratings.

Is there a difference between Air Source and Ground Source Heat Pumps when it comes to noise?

In general, ground source heat pumps tend to be quieter than air source models. This is because they don’t require an outdoor fan, which helps reduce noise. However, noise levels will also depend on the specific unit size and model.

 Can a Heat Pump Run All Night Without Disrupting Sleep?

Heat pumps are designed to operate continuously without any issues, so leaving one on overnight is perfectly fine. In fact, many manufacturers recommend running your heat pump consistently to maintain a stable temperature, as it’s more efficient and cost-effective than turning it on and off. Setting your heat pump to a lower temperature at night can help keep your home warm without any loud operation sounds.

Is There a Way to Make a Heat Pump Quieter

If your heat pump seems noisier than usual, it’s a good idea to have an engineer inspect it. Most heat pumps operate quietly, so sudden changes in noise may indicate a need for maintenance. Additionally, if needed, you can install dampeners to reduce vibration. These are usually placed under the unit’s feet or around the compressor bolts, helping to keep operation smooth and quiet.

Will a Heat Pump be Louder During Winter Months?

During colder months, a heat pump may sound a bit louder due to the increased work required to extract and circulate warmth. However, this is normal and not usually disruptive. If you notice a significant change in noise, it’s wise to have the system inspected just in case.

Are New Heat Pumps Quieter?

Today’s heat pumps are generally quieter than earlier models. Advances in technology have made modern heat pumps quieter and more efficient. If you’ve heard complaints about noisy heat pumps, they likely involve older units. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect heat pumps to keep getting quieter, making them an increasingly noise-friendly option for home heating.

Summary

To summarise, noise levels should not be a reason to avoid installing a heat pump into your home. They are generally quieter than people expect them to be and no louder than other household appliances you already have.

If you are thinking of installing a heat pump or concerned about the noise of an existing unit, contact us today and one of our expert installers will be in touch.

 

 

by Dean Barton

Do I Need Planning Permission to Install an Air Source Heat Pump

If you’re considering installing an air source heat pump (ASHP) to improve your home’s energy efficiency, you may be wondering if you need planning permission.

Generally, air source heat pumps fall under Permitted Development Rights (PDR) in the UK, which means they don’t always require planning permission.

However, certain conditions and exceptions apply.

When Planning Permission Isn’t Required

For most residential properties, installing an air source heat pump is allowed under PDR, which simplifies the process. However, there are a few important rules to follow. The ASHP unit should be installed on the ground, more than one meter from the property’s boundary. It also needs to be positioned away from the main front wall of the house to limit its visual impact on the street.

Additionally, only one air source heat pump unit is allowed per property under PDR. The pump should not exceed a certain noise level to avoid disturbing neighbours. Meeting these conditions can often mean you don’t need extra permission.

When Planning Permission Is Required

In some cases, you will still need planning permission. Listed buildings, conservation areas, and properties in designated areas like national parks often require approval. This is due to the restrictions on altering building appearance or character. If you’re installing an air source heat pump on a listed building, you’ll need Listed Building Consent in addition to planning permission.

How to Be Sure

To confirm whether your installation qualifies under PDR, it’s best to consult your local planning authority or contact us today for some expert advice.

By following the guidelines, most homeowners can install an air source heat pump without planning permission. This makes it a lot easier to switch to this eco-friendly heating option.

by Dean Barton