Air Source Heat Pumps vs Boilers – The Fight Is On!

Can an air source heat pump (ASHP) replace my traditional boiler? Let’s find out…Part one

Let’s talk about the biggest face-off in town – boilers vs heat pumps. Boilers have been the nation’s popular heating system for decades. However, the recent move into a low carbon future has encouraged the likes of heat pumps. In this article, boilers and heat pumps are fighting head-to-head to take the lead in the heating system. Who will take more votes? Let’s figure it out…

EFFICIENCY:
In heating systems, efficiency indicates the volume of energy supply that is turned into applicable heat energy. Traditional boilers are evaluated 50% to 75% efficient, which indicates energy waste of ½ to ¼. However, the efficiency rate improved to nearly 90% in new high-efficiency boilers like gas, LPG, and oil boilers. So, only limited energy was wasted through the flue pipe.

On the flip side, the heat pump’s efficiency rate can reach as high as 350% (a Coefficient of Performance of 3.5). This is due to the heat pump’s regular function in capturing the natural heat outside of your house and moving it inside. For every kilowatt (kW) of electricity heat pump uses, you’ll receive 3-4 times additional heat. This sort of efficiency will help in limiting your monthly utility bills. Considering the most efficient heating system, a heat pump is a clear winner compared to modern boilers.

HEATPUMP vs BOILER
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LIFESPAN:
Modern boilers have an average lifetime of 10 years. A normal gas or LPF boiler can last for about 8-12 years. On the other hand, regular air source heat pumps have a lifetime of 15 years. However, modern heat pumps are reported to last for about 25 years. This makes heat pumps last twice as long as modern boilers. Therefore, heat pumps wouldn’t require a replacement as often as boilers. Considering the lifespan of the heating systems, the heat pump wins this one.

HEATPUMP VS BOILER
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Tune in next week for the next instalment of Boilers vs ASHPs!