Is it worth installing a heat pump system in a flat?
This article tells you everything you need to know to make an informed decision: from space and budget considerations to permits and grants.
When we talk about climate control and energy efficiency, heat pump systems stand out as an innovative, sustainable, and increasingly popular choice. This technology harnesses the energy in the air to provide climate control for the home and generate domestic hot water. But is it really practical and worthwhile to install one in a flat? This article breaks down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
What to consider before choosing a heat pump system for a flat
Installing a heat pump system in a flat isn’t always as straightforward as it is in a detached house. Before making a decision, it’s worth considering some key aspects:
Available space: A heat pump system requires an outdoor unit, similar to an air conditioning unit, which should be placed in a well-ventilated area such as a balcony, terrace, or rooftop. If you live in a block of flats, you may need permission for this.
Building regulations: It’s essential to check with your homeowners' or residents’ association. Some rules forbid installing visible outdoor units, while others require approval from the homeowners' association.
Insulation of the property: To maximise the benefits of this technology, your property should be well insulated. If it isn’t, the system’s efficiency will drop, leading to lower savings. Insulating your windows, walls, and ceilings may be a worthwhile parallel investment.
Climate control requirements: Do you frequently use heating or air conditioning? Are there rooms in your flat that are seldom used? Understanding your habits and needs helps you select the appropriately sized system and assess whether the investment is worthwhile.
Compatibility with your current system: If your home already has traditional high-temperature radiators, they may need adapting to ensure compatibility with a heat pump system.
Benefits of installing a heat pump system in a flat
Heat pump systems are fast becoming one of the most efficient technologies for home climate control. Here are their main advantages:
Energy efficiency: They can generate up to 4 kWh of thermal energy for every kWh of electricity consumed, i.e. an efficiency of 400%. This translates into major savings on electricity or gas bills.
Sustainability: By harnessing energy from the air (a renewable source), heat pump systems drastically cut CO₂ emissions. This option therefore aligns with decarbonisation and energy efficiency targets in the building sector.
Thermal comfort: They provide consistent, even temperatures throughout winter and summer. In summer, some systems can even reverse their cycle to provide cooling.
Domestic hot water (DHW): Some heat pump systems can also supply DHW, removing the need for an electric water heater or a gas boiler.
Grants and subsidies: Many regional governments in Spain offer grants or tax breaks for installing heat pump systems, helping to bring down the initial cost.
Drawbacks of installing a heat pump system in a flat
High initial cost: Installing a heat pump system is generally more expensive than other climate control systems. Though the initial investment is high, energy savings soon make it more cost-effective than other climate control systems. Here we explain when you will start to notice the return on investment.
Dependence on electricity: While efficient, heat pump systems rely entirely on electricity, which may be an issue if you live in an area prone to frequent power cuts.
Aesthetic impact: The outdoor unit can impact the building’s appearance or cause disputes with neighbours.
Types of emitters in heat pump systems
There are two main types of emitters used with heat pump systems:
Low-temperature radiators: Specially designed to work efficiently with heat pump systems, these operate at lower temperatures than conventional radiators.
But did you know you can install a heat pump system without changing your radiators? Here we explain how.
Underfloor heating: This system distributes heat evenly through the floor, making it ideal for heat pump systems as it operates at low temperatures. What’s more, it’s completely concealed once installed.
When is it advisable to install a heat pump system in a flat?
A heat pump system is especially recommended if you want a long-term, sustainable solution for heating and cooling your property. It’s ideal if:
You live in an area with mild temperatures: While heat pump systems work well in cold climates, they achieve optimal efficiency in areas where extreme temperatures are rare.
You’re carrying out a major renovation: Taking advantage of renovation work to include a heat pump system can be cheaper and less disruptive.
You have space for the outdoor unit: Installation requires an outdoor space; without it, the system cannot be fitted.
Return on investment: evaluating return on investment
Although the upfront cost may seem high, investing in a heat pump system can pay for itself over the medium to long term. This is due to its superior energy efficiency, which adds up to much lower energy consumption compared to conventional heating systems. Additionally, since it requires less maintenance than a gas boiler, long-term costs are greatly reduced.
So, is it worth it?
Deciding to install a heat pump system in a flat isn’t something you should rush into. Although the upfront cost and practicalities may seem off-putting, the long-term benefits in terms of savings and comfort are clear. If you are seeking an efficient, sustainable way to control the climate in your home, a heat pump system is certainly worth considering.