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I rather like the principle of heat pumps, but in reality, they cost far more to install here than what most people can afford. Plus, in the UK we have many small properties, so even if that person could afford to install such a system, the payback time in savings from the fuel in comparison to the installation costs in a typical 2-3 bedroom home here could take a very long time, even longer than appliances expected lifespan. They are being used in larger homes with great success for those who can afford to buy them, but then again there are lots of people with large houses opting for super insulation and to remain with such fuels as gas.
From what I have seen, the highest temperature heat pumps available work up to around 70 DegC, boilers, on the other hand, go up to around 85 DegC. Many homes in this country, especially the older stock, would need at least some modification to the heating system or the insulation of the property for the property to heat sufficiently with a heat source providing a 70 DegC output, again adding to cost. Granted condensing boilers need lower return temperatures to achieve their best efficiencies, but most are installed without that consideration. Many people here they are either not interested in paying for it due to such things as payback times, or they cannot afford the extra several hundred pounds to upgrade a few extra radiators. That is the reality and that is the main reason why heat pumps haven't take off here. What parts of Europe are like I am unsure.
In regards to heat pumps maintenance costs, I have seen them go for 25 years with minimal issue, but then, on the other hand, I have seen plenty need replacement PCB's that are several hundreds of pounds just to purchase fail in a short space of time. I have seen other parts fail, such as compressors, and cost thousands.
Boiler servicing is not a mandatory requirement here. Even if people serviced their boilers as recommended annually, it is a very competitive market, so it would only cost around £60-80 on average.
Heat pumps have their place, but the way the market is here at present, if oil is phased out unless they can find a cost-effective green solution as already mentioned, such as biofuel, most people who do not have access to mains gas will opt for LPG unless heat pumps come down in cost or some form of scheme is brought in to effectively supplement their installation cost.
Originally posted by NeilForth
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There are many threads on MSE about the limitations of Heat pumps - mainly ASHP.
For maximum efficiency they should be run with very low water temperatures(35C - 40C) and left on continually(set back overnight)
which makes them particularly suitable for properties that are occupied 24/7. Unlike conventional gas/oil/LPG CH it is not feasible to be out all day and expect to switch on a heat pump on return to the house.
In your post above you have ignored the Renewable Heat Initiative(RHI)
https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/environmental-programmes/domestic-rhi/applicants/eligible-heating-systems which goes a long way to offset installation costs on suitable properties.
Despite the RHI conditions, the practice of heat pumps fitted by 'Cowboys' has still not been addressed, and manufacturers will sell a heat pump to anyone, and not take responsibility for its performance after installation.