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Should our business consider investing in a heat pump?

Should our business consider investing in a heat pump?
9 December 2024

With the UK committed to reaching net zero by 2050, the trend of replacing fossil fuelled boilers with heat pumps is likely to accelerate.

The government has already set a target of 600,000 heat pump installations per year by 2028, and the Committee on Climate Change (CCC) estimates that 19 million heat pumps will need to be installed by 2050 to help the UK achieve its net-zero goal.

Heat pumps can be used as a primary source of heat generation, replacing fossil fuel boilers, but should you consider one for your business?

As award-winning commercial heating and ventilation specialists, at Lord Combustion Services we have been keeping people warm since 1982.

We offer a wide range of energy-efficient equipment to suit any business need and budget, and our expert team can handle installations quickly and efficiently, including retrofitting new appliances to existing systems.

Our team of nearly 50 staff serve more than 1,000 customers across the West Midlands from our base in Dudley Road East, Oldbury.

Here is a topline introduction to some of the advantage and disadvantages of heat pumps:

The advantages of heat pumps:

  • Reduced energy costs: Heat pumps are highly efficient, extracting heat from the environment. This can lead to significant reductions in energy bills, especially when compared to traditional heating systems like gas or oil boilers.
  • Environmental friendliness: Heat pumps have a much lower carbon footprint than traditional heating systems. The Carbon Trust found that heat pumps have the potential to deliver CO2 savings of up to 70% compared to conventional electric heating, and up to 65% compared to an A-rated gas boiler. They reduce reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to a more sustainable future.
  • Year-round comfort: Some types of heat pumps can be used for both heating and cooling, providing year-round climate control for your business premises.
  • Heat pumps utilise electricity instead of fossil fuels: Unlike your fossil fuel supply, the electricity grid can be “decarbonised” and generated by a renewable source.
  • Government incentives: Businesses can benefit from government grants and incentives to encourage the adoption of heat pumps. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme, for example, provides grants to businesses and homeowners in England and Wales to help cover the cost of installing an air source heat pump or ground source heat pump.

The disadvantages of heat pumps:

  • Higher initial cost: The upfront cost of installing a heat pump can be higher than that of a traditional heating system.
  • Performance in cold temperatures: While heat pumps can operate effectively in colder climates, their efficiency may decrease in extremely cold temperatures. This might mean that additional heating sources are required during the coldest periods.
  • Noise: Some heat pumps can produce noise, which may be a concern for businesses in quiet locations. However, modern heat pumps are designed to be quieter than older models.
  • Complex installation: The installation of a heat pump can be more complex than a traditional heating system, requiring specialised expertise.
  • Compatibility: Your existing heating distribution pipework and emitters may not be suitable for use with a heat pump.

Overall, heat pumps can offer a compelling solution for businesses seeking to reduce energy costs and lower their carbon footprint. While there are some initial costs and considerations to be aware of, the long-term benefits make them a worthwhile investment for many businesses.

Whether a heat pump or more traditional heating solution is right for your business, however, is not a straightforward decision, as it will depend on your individual requirements. At Lord, we design and install all our solutions based on the individual needs of each business.

If you would like to know more about your options when it comes to choosing a new heating system, please get in touch. Contact Lord Combustion Services today by calling 0121 544 4191 or emailing service@lordcombustion.co.uk.

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