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The 7 Advantages of Heat Pumps

 Heat pumps are safer than systems based on combustion.

 They are cheaper to run than oil and gas boilers.

 The system reduces your carbon emissions and it has an efficient conversion rate of energy to heat.

 Less maintenance than combustion heating systems.

 Can provide cooling during the summer.

 Very long life-span (up to 50 years), thus they are extremely reliable and a steady source of heat.

 You may be eligible for payment under the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme.

The 7 Disadvantages of Heat Pumps

 Heat pump systems have a high startup cost.

 They are fairly difficult to install given the fact that research must be made in order to understand the movement of heat, local geology and the heating and cooling requirements for your household.

 Some of the fluids used for heat transfer are of questionable sustainability and they raise environmental concerns, hence it is recommended to use biodegradable fluids.

 The installation process will mean significant work and disruption to your house and garden. A relevant example would be that penetrations have to be made through the building cladding.

 Some heat pumps experiencing trouble in cold areas which can damage the system, thus full efficiency during the cold season cannot be reached. Although, there are possibilities of an upgraded heat pump system that overcomes this problem.

 Electricity is required to run the heat pumps which means that they will never be entirely carbon neutral.

 Special planning permissions are required in Wales and Northern Ireland, whilst in England and Scotland it depends on your location and size of your property.