Is an Air Source Heat Pump expensive to run?

A properly sized and correctly installed Air Source Heat Pump is incredibly cost-effective to run. In fact, it stands out as the most economical heating system when compared to other electric or fossil fuel alternatives. A well-installed Air Source system can generate approximately 4kWh of heat for every 1kWh of electricity it consumes. By dividing the cost of 1kWh of electricity by 4, you can calculate the running cost of the system. Here’s an interesting fact that often goes unnoticed: 100% of the heat energy produced by the Heat Pump is delivered to your property, whereas traditional boilers can lose up to 20% of their heat energy through the flue with the exhaust gases.

How many Solar Panels do I need?

The number of panels needed varies from person to person and property to property. It primarily depends on the size of the area you have available, such as your roof space. Another crucial factor is how much energy you use and when you need it. It’s not as straightforward as saying, “I use 10,000 kWh per year, so just fit a system to meet that.” Keep in mind that panels generate less energy during winter, which might coincide with when you use the most energy. To determine your requirements accurately, take a closer look at your appliances and when you use them. Do you have additional electricity-intensive devices like an electric car or hot tub? Building your solar system around your specific energy needs and considering your lifestyle adjustments can help you maximize the benefits of Solar PV.

How does home battery storage installation work?

Home battery storage installation involves integrating a battery system with your existing energy setup, allowing you to store excess energy for use during peak times.

Chris McDowell - Sustain Heating

Can I Use My Solar Panels to Charge an Electric Car?

by Chris McDowell | Dec 8, 2025 | Solar Panels

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, many homeowners are asking: can I charge my car using my solar panels? The answer is yes — and doing so can dramatically reduce your running costs while making your driving truly carbon-free. At Sustain Heating, we...

Solar Battery Storage Explained: Sizing, Placement & Regulations in the UK

by Chris McDowell | Dec 8, 2025 | Battery Storage

Adding a solar battery to your PV system is one of the best ways to get more from your renewable energy investment. It allows you to store excess solar energy during the day and use it later — in the evening, at night, or during peak tariff times. At Sustain Heating,...

How Does Shade Affect Solar Panel Performance?

by Chris McDowell | Nov 12, 2025 | Solar Panels

When you’re thinking about solar panels, one of the most common questions is: what if part of my roof is shaded?While shading can reduce efficiency, the good news is that with modern technology and smart system design, even roofs with partial shade can still generate...

Is My Roof Suitable for Solar Panels?

by Chris McDowell | Nov 12, 2025 | Solar Panels

If you’re considering solar panels for your home, one of the first questions you might ask is: is my roof suitable?The answer for most homes is yes – but every property is different. The key is understanding how your roof’s space, structure, and orientation...

Will a Heat Pump Really Save Me Money on My Energy Bills?

by Chris McDowell | Oct 27, 2025 | Air Source Heat Pumps

When homeowners start researching heat pumps, one of the first questions they ask is simple: Will it really save me money?The answer is yes – provided your system is designed correctly and installed by a qualified, MCS-accredited engineer. Here’s how heat pumps...