Article date:13 September 2010
Written by:Jose Espinosa
A new report which challenges the performance of ground and air source heat pumps is valuable research but the technology shouldn't be dismissed, says carbon reduction company Sustain.
The results of the study by Energy Saving Trust, which were published earlier this week, found the 83 devices it monitored for a year underperformed and claims this is caused by incorrect sizing of systems, complicated controls, a lack of education for householders using them and the use of multiple installers rather than a single contractor as used in Europe.
However, the Trust says that many of the five million people in the UK living off the gas grid could benefit from heat pumps.
Kevin Boniface, senior associate at Sustain, said: "This research echoes our own view and the advice we give to our clients. Heat pumps make the most sense for people who use electricity or oil instead of gas as the main heating fuel.
"They also work well in highly insulated new buildings where there is a low temperature distribution system, such as under floor heating. If insulation levels are poor, controls aren't explained to users or conventional radiators are used, the heat pumps will struggle to provide the performance quoted by manufacturers.
"The problem is compounded by the fact that the figures published by many manufacturers don't reflect real life situations, and so don't take into account factors such as the need for back up heating systems particularly with air source heat pumps.
"As an independent consultancy, we are always looking for up to date research and good quality data that will help our clients. We welcome the results of the study but urge the Government not to delay the introduction of the Renewable Heat Incentive, which encourages a range of renewable technologies and is an important instrument for change."
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