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(This article was originally written by, and published on, nrgpanel.ie before NRG Panel became part of the Ohk energy Group)
Trying to navigate the complexities of heat pumps and home heating systems in general?
To help, below we compare air to water heat pumps with the most common home heating systems in Ireland.
But first, a quick high level explanation on how air to water heat pumps work.
Basically, they absorb heat from outdoor air, then a compressor steps in and cranks up the temperature. The resulting hot steam undergoes a transformation into water.
This hot water becomes the secret sauce for warming up homes. As temperatures naturally cool down, the heat pump kicks in once more.
OK, now let’s compare air to water heat pumps with other systems.
They work very well, require very little to no maintenance at all, don’t require a chimney for ventilation, and they can offer a clean way of producing heat. With rising electricity costs in Ireland, using an electric heater is usually the most expensive solution.
An air to water heat pump uses electricity as well but in comparison to an electric heater, it can be 4 times more cost-effective.
Book your air to water heat pump installation.
Geothermal heat pumps tap into the earth’s temperature to generate heat for homes. Despite being highly efficient, their installation costs can be twice as high as air to water heat pumps. This is primarily because they entail digging in the ground and the installation of underground piping.
For that reason, air to water heat pumps offer a more cost-effective solution. They don’t necessitate underground piping, making installation expenses lower.
Kerosene heating has been a traditional method to heat Irish homes. It works based on burning the fuel and thus creating heat.
Air to water heat pumps stand out for their energy efficiency and minimal environmental damage. Kerosene heating releases carbon emissions during the burning process, while heat pumps utilise the outside cold air, offering a clean and greener alternative.
With the cost of kerosene (the average spend is €1600-€2000 per year) and efficiency of the accompanying heating system, this results in long-term operational expenses being quite high.
On the other hand, due to their efficiency levels, the running cost of heat pumps can be relatively low when a home is appropriately insulated and air-tight.
Wood heating has been a traditional method cherished for its warmth and ambience. However, when considering sustainability and efficiency, air to water heat pumps emerge as a more progressive choice.
Wood heating involves the burning of natural resources, contributing to deforestation and air pollution. Again, an air to water heat pump doesn’t work this way so there is no impact on the environment.
According to Ireland Irish Times, in December 2023:
“Coal use was down by 50 per cent and fossil fuel use by 80 per cent in power generation…while wind generation and solar had increased.
This would deliver almost a 17 per cent emissions cut in the power sector.
An 8 per cent reduction in the building sector was forecast as retrofits were ahead of target, while a 27 per cent cut in nitrogen fertiliser use in the last two years would have a direct impact on reducing agricultural emissions.”
Coal heating is a traditional method deeply rooted in Irish history, and now faces a strong and impressive competitor in the form of air to water heat pumps.
Coal burning releases pollutants and greenhouse gases, contributing to environmental degradation. While coal heating may seem cheaper in the short term, the long-term costs associated with environmental damage and decreasing availability make it less economical.
Another part is the labour. With coal comes the endless shovelling and cleaning afterwards. For an elderly person or a busy person, this is a huge downfall.
Air to water heat pumps operate without burning fossil fuels, making them a cleaner, more eco-friendly and economical choice, without needing you to make an effort.
While we contemplate the benefits that renewable energy offers to the new generations, we often overlook its potential advantages for the older generation or for people who have mobility restrictions.
Fossil fuel not only harms our Earth; it also entails tiring manual labour, often required for preparation, organisation and storage.
Kerosene leaves stains, coal dust permeates our homes and wood needs to be chopped and stored.
Air to water heat pumps are different.
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