FAQs
We’ve compiled a selection of the most frequently asked questions about heat pumps and heat pump installation for you.
If there is anything we’ve missed, or if you’d like to discuss in more detail, feel free to give one of our team a call on;
Telephone 0800 979 0401
or drop us an email at;
Email sales@kinectid.eco
What is a heat pump?
A heat pump is an electric-powered device that heats your home and hot water. It's a more sustainable alternative than traditional gas or oil-fired boilers.
Can a heat pump work with my solar panels?
Yes, absolutely! And if you have energy storage with your solar panels, your heat pump can draw energy whenever needed. So, we love this combination!
How does a heat pump work?
Air source heat pumps absorb heat from outside air and transfer it to your home and hot water. Remarkably, they can extract heat when air temperatures are as low as -15°C.
Where would I put my heat pump?
Our team will advise you on the best location for your heat pump based on the layout of your home.
How will my heat pump be zero carbon?
We love that you're looking for a zero carbon heating solution! While our heat pumps can decrease your carbon footprint greatly, selecting a 100% renewable electricity provider can get you to zero carbon heating.
A lot of people say heat pumps don't work properly, is this true?
No! Heat pumps are very effective! In fact, since the mid 90s, more than 1 million households in Finland have transitioned to heat pumps to heat their homes. The UK can, too!
Can a heat pump run on a variable tariff?
Yes. You'll need a Smart Meter, and should check with your energy provider to see if they can offer you a suitable variable tariff.
Is there a grant available for a heat pump installation?
Yes! The Boiler Upgrade Scheme, backed by the government, provides £5,000 grants towards the replacement of existing gas and oil fired boilers and storage heater systems.
I live in a flat, can I install a heat pump?
In some cases, yes. Our pre-installation team will conduct a site survey to determine if it's possible.
Do I need to change my existing radiators?
No. The modern heat pumps we install will work effectively with any central heating radiator system.
My house is old and not that well insulated, will a heat pump still work?
Good insulation is always recommended to reduce heat loss and costs. However, our heat pumps will still heat an uninsulated home.
How would I control the temperature of my house?
You'll continue to use your existing thermostat to control your home's temperature.
What effect on run cost does having double glazing, cavity wall or loft insulation have?
Insulation is an important part of retaining heat, and will contribute to reducing energy use and costs.
It gets very cold where I live, will a heat pump work?
Yes, absolutely! Heat pumps can still extract and transfer heat when air temperatures are as low as -15°C.
Why not just use an electric heater instead of a heat pump?
By using ambient air as a heat source, a heat pump can achieve 200%-600% energy efficiency, converting 1kW of power into 6kW of heat! Heat pumps are highly efficient and reduce heating costs.
Is a heat pump installation difficult?
For most properties, swapping existing boilers with decarbonising heat pumps is simple, and can happen in a single day.
I have storage heaters, can I install a heat pump?
Yes, it's possible. However, you'll need a complete central heating system installed. Our team will conduct a site survey and provide a quote for this process.
Do I need an underfloor system for a heat pump to work properly?
No. Heat pumps are effective for both central heating radiator systems and underfloor heating systems.
What kind of servicing will a heat pump require?
Heat pumps are low maintenance, but an annual servicing can ensure they are running at optimal efficiency. We are happy to provide this service for a one time annual fee, or with low monthly payments.
Are heat pumps expensive to run?
Not only are heat pumps energy efficient, they are less expensive and more planet-friendly because they don't depend on gas and oil, which can fluctuate in price and have a heavy carbon footprint.
What happens if my heat pump goes wrong?
If you are experiencing any trouble with your heat pump, engineers are on-call to troubleshoot immediately over the phone, or provide on-site repairs when necessary. If your heat pump is still under the manufacturer's warranty, these repairs will be done free of charge.
Are heat pumps noisy?
At a maximum of 58db, our heat pumps are quiter than a conversation.
How can I know which heat pump would be best for my house?
Kinectid is with you every step of the way to advise the best heat pump, placement, and storage cylinder size for your home and family.
How many years will a heat pump last for?
You can expect at least 15 years of use from our heat pumps...and likely longer.
Will a heat pump effectively warm my house when the temperature outside drops below zero?
Yes, absolutely! An air source heat pump can extract heat from air as cold as -15°C!
What is a high temperature heat pump?
High Temperature Heat Pumps can reach up to 70°C flow temperatures, much like a standard gas or oil boiler.
Will my shower get piping hot?
Definitely. Our systems can heat and store water at 65°C, while 50°C is usually a comfortable and sufficient temperature for showers.
Is a high temperature heat pump expensive to buy or run?
High Temperature Heat Pump costs have come down in recent years, and now are priced similarly to lower temperature options.
Can I cool my home with a heat pump?
Technically yes. However, you might lose access to government grants, and installation becomes more complex with additional plumbing circuits and special heat/cold emitters.
Does a heat pump supply enough hot water?
Our team will calculate the hot water cylinder size required based on your household and home size, so with normal use, you shouldn't run out of hot water.
Does a heat pump system require a hot water cylinder?
Yes, a hot water cylinder is required to produce and store hot water.
What is an EPC?
EPC refers to "Energy Performance Certificate" and is a way to measure and rank a property's energy efficiency. Heat pumps and other decarbonising methods are ways to improve EPC scores.
Do I need to upgrade my power supply to three-phase?
No. Our heat pumps are designed to work effectively with existing electrical and water systems.
Can I keep my current hot water cylinder?
By installing a high temperature heat pump, you will likely be able to continue to use your existing hot water cylinder. Our specialist teams can advise you on this.
Can I replace my boiler with a heat pump?
Yes. The swap is usually simple, and our installers can handle it for you.
Can a hot water cylinder be situated horizontal in a loft space?
It is possible to mount cylinders horizontally. Adequate weight-bearing joists and accessibility are required, and our team of installation specialists can help identify the best location for your hot water cylinder.
Does my garden need to be dug up to install a heat pump?
No, keep your garden! Our heat pumps are Air Source Heat Pumps and draw heat from ambient air, as opposed to Ground Source Heat Pumps which use geothermal energy and require pipework and digging. Our installation requirements are far less invasive.
Can a hot water cylinder be situated outside?
Hot water cylinders located outside may lose excessive amounts of heat. Therefore, we recommend interior placement in heated rooms.
Does my property need to be built to passive standards, with a recirculation system, in order to take advantage of a heat pump?
No, our heat pumps work with older homes, even uninsulated ones. We always recommend insulating where you can, however, because it does reduce heat loss, and improve energy efficiency and costs.
I have a solar thermal tank, can I use it with a heat pump?
In most cases, you'll be able to use your solar thermal system. As with all installs, our team will determine this case by case.
Can a battery power a heat pump?
Heat pumps can certainly be battery-powered, however, size and storage capacity must be considered. Our team can advise on the requirements to meet your needs.
Can three separate properties be served by one heat pump and a single cylinder?
It may be possible. Our team will conduct a site survey and assess total heat loads and hot water requirements to determine feasibility.
I have an AGA, can I also have a heat pump?
Yes, you can have a heat pump with your AGA, however, alterations may be needed depending on its use-case. Your AGA specialist can explore options with you.
Is a hydrogen boiler better than a heat pump?
Hydrogen boilers hold much promise to help us on our way to Net Zero, but they are not yet available for domestic installation, and costs and availability are yet to be determined. Heat Pumps are an immediate solution to decarbonizing home and commercial heating, and are cost effective, from both an installation and operation standpoint.
