Debunking the most common myths about heat pump systems

Have you heard that heat pump systems are one of the most efficient climate control options, but are unsure that they are as effective as people claim? Perhaps someone has told you they don’t perform well in winter, or that installation costs are exorbitant. With so many conflicting opinions, it’s understandable to feel a little confused. But don’t worry, together we’ll debunk the myths surrounding heat pump systems, and you’ll see why more and more people are choosing them for their homes. Let's get to it!

What does this article cover?

• Myth 1: “A heat pump system doesn’t work in cold climates"
• Myth 2: “It’s too expensive and not worth it"
• Myth 3: “It's difficult to install and maintain"
• Myth 4: “It's not environmentally friendly because it uses electricity"
• Myth 5: “It’s only for large or new homes"
• Myth 6: “It's not compatible with radiators"

Myth 1: “A heat pump system doesn’t work in cold climates”

“How can something that extracts energy from the air work when it’s freezing outside?” It’s a reasonable question, but the answer might surprise you. A heat pump system harnesses the thermal energy that is always present in the air, even when temperatures drop below zero. Modern heat pumps are designed to perform even in harsh climates.

A real-life example? In countries like Norway, Sweden, and Finland, where freezing winters of -20°C are common, heat pump systems not only work well, but have even become very popular. What’s the secret? Modern systems can maximise efficiency even in challenging conditions, delivering reliable, comfortable climate control all year round. 

Myth 2: “It’s too expensive and not worth it”

It’s true that installing a heat pump system requires a larger upfront investment than other systems, but what happens after that? That’s where heat pump systems really excel. This solution can cut energy bills by up to 70%, depending on your setup and the efficiency of your property. On top of that, consumption is much lower than with traditional systems such as oil or gas.

As if that weren’t enough, many governments offer grants or incentives to encourage the installation of these efficient systems. It’s a bit like planting a tree in your garden: it takes some effort initially, but once it starts bearing fruit (or, in this case, saving you money), you’ll be glad you did it.

Myth 3: “It’s difficult to install and maintain”

This is another common myth. People often think installing a heat pump system is more complicated than other solutions, but in reality there’s nothing especially difficult about the process. A climate control specialist such as Daikin can install the system without any major issues. All you need is a suitable place for the outdoor unit, and another for the indoor system.

What about maintenance? Here’s the good news. Heat pump systems are surprisingly easy to maintain compared to other types of heating or cooling systems. You don’t have to deal with fuel, fireplaces or tanks, and a simple annual checkup is more than enough to keep it working like new.

Myth 4: “It's not environmentally friendly because it uses electricity”

Admittedly, heat pump systems do require electricity to operate, but here’s the key figure: they generate up to 4 kWh of thermal energy for every kWh of electricity consumed. This makes them one of the most efficient technologies available today.

They are also fully compatible with renewable energy sources such as solar panels. This means you can enjoy a 100% sustainable system that further reduces your environmental footprint. Heat pump systems offer the best of both worlds, dramatically cutting energy use without sacrificing comfort.

Myth 5: “It’s only for large or new homes”

This myth puts a lot of people off. Many think that heat pump systems are only suitable for new builds or large properties. But that’s not the case. While it’s fair to say that new homes are generally better suited to accommodate efficient systems, a heat pump system can also be installed effectively in flats or older homes.

How is this possible? The key is to have an expert analyse your property’s specific requirements. For example, retrofitting is often possible without any major structural work. Heat pump systems can work effectively even in a small flat, provided you choose the right unit.

Myth 6: “It's not compatible with radiators”

Here’s another myth that often causes confusion. Some believe heat pump systems only work with underfloor heating, but nothing could be further from the truth. While heat pump systems are more efficient when paired with low-temperature systems, they can also be connected to traditional radiators.

There is, however, something important to consider. If your radiators are old, you may need to readjust or reconfigure them to ensure optimal performance. There are also low-temperature radiators specifically designed to work with heat pump systems, allowing you to enjoy maximum comfort and efficiency without a complete overhaul.

Heat pump systems are not merely a passing trend or a solution limited to a few homes. They are a sustainable, cost-effective, modern option, ready to meet today’s challenges. They work in cold climates, deliver genuine savings in the medium to long term, are easy to install and maintain, and their efficiency more than compensates for the electricity they consume.

Now that we've dispelled these myths, there's every reason to consider an air-to-air heat pump the ideal climate control solution for your home. Don’t let misconceptions stop you from choosing an innovative, efficient system.