The common myth that heat pumps are only suitable for newly built homes is being challenged. Heat pumps are emerging as a viable solution for reducing household carbon emissions across Europe. The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts that by 2025, installations in the EU will double from 2 million in 2021 to over 4 million, with numbers potentially reaching nearly 7 million by 2030. Importantly, the majority of these installations are expected in existing buildings, not just new constructions.
The UK’s Heat Pump Dilemma
In the UK, there’s a persistent belief that heat pumps are ineffective in older buildings. This has raised concerns regarding the nation’s goal to install 600,000 heat pumps annually by 2028, especially given the large number of Victorian and pre-WWII homes. A 2021 report by the Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA), in collaboration with gas boiler manufacturers and network companies, suggested that heat pumps might be impractical for up to 54% of British households using gas heating. This report pointed out that many homes have issues like poor insulation or limited space that could hinder the installation of heat pumps.
Critics argue that while fossil fuel heating can quickly warm up even poorly insulated homes, heat pumps, which rely on a steady output of gentle heat, may struggle in these conditions. The EUA also highlighted the high costs and inconvenience of complete home insulation retrofits, labeling them feasible for only a minority of properties.
Dispelling the Myths with Science
Contrary to these concerns, research from the Energy Systems Catapult (ESC), an independent body set up by the UK government, suggests otherwise. Their project involved installing heat pumps in a diverse range of homes, from Victorian terraces to 1960s flats, demonstrating that no specific type or age of property is inherently unsuitable for heat pumps. This finding is supported by data from the ESC, which awaits further performance results post the 2024 general election.
Furthermore, the Fraunhofer Society, a leading research organisation in Europe, confirms that heat pumps can be more efficient than gas boilers even in buildings over 100 years old. Their studies show that modern heat pumps have significantly improved in efficiency, achieving average seasonal performance ratings that triple those of traditional gas boilers.
Overcoming Installation Challenges
While the potential for heat pump technology in older properties is clear, practical challenges remain. Older buildings often require energy efficiency upgrades like loft and wall insulation or the installation of larger radiators and underfloor heating to accommodate heat pumps effectively.
Homes with limited outdoor space, such as flats or terraced houses, might need alternative solutions like wall-mounted or rooftop heat pumps. Also, the installation quality plays a crucial role; a poorly installed system can drastically underperform compared to well-executed setups.
A Step Towards a Low-Carbon Future
The evidence suggests that the notion of UK’s older housing stock being unsuitable for heat pumps is exaggerated. While challenges exist, they are not insurmountable. Simple improvements, like enhancing basic insulation, can significantly boost a building’s compatibility with heat pumps. For flats in high-rise buildings, connecting to a heat network using low-carbon sources might be an alternative solution.