Recently, it’s been revealed that gas boilers are set to become the largest nitrous oxide emitters by 2025. This alarming information raises concerns about the environmental impact of traditional heating methods.
But luckily… there’s an eco-friendly solution - air source heat pumps! In this blog post, we’ll explore why air source heat pumps are considered a better choice for heating homes.
The negative impact of gas boilers
Gas boilers have long been a popular choice for heating homes due to their affordability and efficiency. However, their widespread use has come at a cost. It is estimated that gas boilers currently account for around 21% of nitrous oxide emissions in London alone.
Nitrous oxide is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change and air pollution. With the increasing demand for heating and the post-pandemic shift to remote working, experts predict that gas boilers will become the largest contributors to nitrous oxide emissions by 2025.
Introducing the eco-friendly alternative - Air Source Heat Pumps
Decarbonising Heating Systems
One of the key advantages of air source heat pumps is their ability to decarbonise heating systems. Unlike gas boilers, which rely on burning fossil fuels to generate heat, heat pumps extract heat from the air.
This process requires electricity to run the pump, but as the grid becomes greener with the integration of renewable energy sources, the carbon intensity of electricity decreases. By switching to air source heat pumps, homeowners can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the transition to a zero-carbon economy.
Energy efficiency
Another compelling reason to choose air source heat pumps is their high energy efficiency. These pumps are designed to generate more heat energy than they consume in electricity. On average, heat pumps can produce around 3.5 times more heat energy than the electricity they use, making them a highly efficient heating solution!
In comparison, gas boilers typically convert only 90% of the energy they consume into heat for the home. The increased efficiency of air source heat pumps not only saves energy but also helps homeowners reduce their utility bills.
And, they work with other renewable energy sources
Air source heat pumps can work alongside other renewable energy sources such as solar panels and home batteries. By harnessing solar energy, homeowners can power their heat pumps with self-generated electricity, further reducing their reliance on the grid.
During periods of low solar energy production, the heat pump can still draw electricity from the grid, but with a higher proportion of renewable energy. This combination of air source heat pumps and solar panels creates a sustainable and eco-friendly heating system for homes.
Long lifespan and low maintenance
Air source heat pumps are known for their durability and longevity. These systems are highly reliable and require minimal maintenance outside of an annual service. On average, an air source heat pump can last between 15 to 20 years, surpassing the typical lifespan of a traditional gas boiler. The extended lifespan of heat pumps not only reduces waste but also provides homeowners with long-term savings and peace of mind.
Reduction in nitrous gas emissions
One of the most significant advantages of air source heat pumps is their ability to eliminate nitrous oxide emissions. Unlike gas boilers, which contribute to air pollution through the release of nitrogen oxides, heat pumps do not emit any nitrous oxide. This makes air source heat pumps a much cleaner and safer option for heating homes, not only reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also improving local air quality and public health.
Government initiatives
Recognising the urgency to decarbonise heating systems, the government has set ambitious targets to promote the adoption of air source heat pumps and other low carbon technologies.
From 2025, all new homes in the UK will be required to have low carbon heating systems, phasing out the installation of gas or oil boilers. This measure aims to accelerate the transition to cleaner heating methods and reduce the reliance on fossil fuels.
To incentivise the switch to air source heat pumps, the government has introduced the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, providing grants of £7,500 towards the installation cost. These initiatives aim to make air source heat pumps a financially viable and comparable alternative to traditional boilers.
Overview
As the threat of climate change only increases, it is crucial to look into eco-friendly alternatives to traditional heating methods. With gas boilers showing their dangerous environmental effect, air source heat pumps offer a much greener and more sustainable solution to heating your home.
If you want to find out more about air source heat pumps or want to invest in one, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Project Heating Solutions. We’d love to chat with you about how we can help!
