Heat pumps

A heat pump is a low-carbon heating system that captures heat from the air, ground, or a nearby water source such as a loch or river and uses it to heat a building. 

There are three main types: 

1.  air source,
2.  ground source, and
3. water source heat pumps.

They work by extracting natural heat from their surroundings and increasing its temperature before transferring it to a building’s heating system and, in many cases, its hot water supply. Heat pumps can operate efficiently throughout the year, even in very cold weather, and typically produce more heat energy than the electricity they use, making them an energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating systems.

Advantages of heat pumps

• Lower carbon emissions compared with fossil-fuel heating 
• Can provide both heating and cooling
• Suitable for many existing buildings
• Lower maintenance requirements and long lifespan
• Safer than combustion heating systems
• Hot water production

Disadvantages of heat pumps

• Slower heat up times compared to conventional heating systems
• Site specific requirements based on type of system installing: ground source require access to significant outdoor space, water source require access to rives, lochs or coastal waters, air source are more flexible but still require outside space for the unit
• Upfront cost can be significant
• Noise from units
• Insulation upgrades may be needed to buildings
• Planning permission may be required

Further information

Business Energy Scotland: Heat pumps quick guide

NI Direct: Heat pumps