Common Queries
Air Source Heat Pumps
01. 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.
02. Do I need a boiler if I have an Air Source Heat Pump?
With an Air Source Heat Pump, you won’t need or want a traditional boiler. It’s true that Air Source Heat Pumps are often referred to as “Low Temperature” systems, but that’s when compared to boilers that typically operate at higher temperatures, around 65-70 degrees Celsius. However, it’s important to note that water at 50-55 degrees Celsius is still hot and perfectly suitable for domestic use in a dwelling. If you’re interested in receiving the Government BUS Voucher, it’s necessary to replace your fossil fuel boiler with an Air Source Heat Pump.
03. Are Heat Pumps noisy?
A properly installed Air Source Heat Pump operates incredibly quietly, almost like a gentle whisper. In fact, they are usually quieter than the flues of gas or oil boilers. The noise level generated by a heat pump is carefully regulated and covered by building regulations. As part of the Heat Loss Survey, a report should be produced to ensure that the heat pump meets the sound regulations and operates within acceptable noise limits. This ensures a peaceful and undisturbed environment for your home.
04. What are the benefits of air source heat pump installations?
Benefits include reduced energy bills, lower carbon emissions, and eligibility for government incentives.
05. How long does an air source heat pump installation take?
An air source heat pump installation usually takes 1 to 3 days, depending on the system size and site conditions.
06. What maintenance do air source heat pumps require?
Air source heat pumps require regular servicing, including cleaning filters and checking refrigerant levels, to ensure optimal performance
Common Queries
Solar Panels
01. 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.
02. Do Solar Panels work in winter?
Solar panels harness electricity from daylight. The brighter the sunlight, the more efficiently they operate. While direct sunlight is ideal and works well during winter months, it’s important to note that the days are shorter, and the weather may not always be optimal, which can limit the amount of electricity generated. Nevertheless, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the impressive capabilities of modern equipment and how much energy you can generate even under less-than-perfect conditions.
03. Do I have to tell my electricity supplier I have solar panels?
You don’t have to inform your energy provider when you install solar panels. However, if you plan to sell the excess energy back to the grid and receive payments through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), it’s worth noting that these payments will typically come from your energy provider.
04. What are the benefits of solar PV installations?
Solar PV installations can reduce your energy bills, increase your property value, and contribute to a more sustainable environment.
05. What is the lifespan of solar PV panels?
Most solar PV panels have a lifespan of 25-30 years, with warranties typically covering 20-25 years.
06. What maintenance is required for solar PV systems?
Solar PV systems require minimal maintenance, mainly periodic cleaning and inspections to ensure optimal performance.
Common Queries
Battery Storage
01. 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.
02. How many batteries would I need?
We offer exceptional battery storage solutions that can greatly enhance both new and existing solar systems.
With our batteries, you can store any excess energy generated by your solar array and conveniently use it in your home, especially during evenings or periods of low solar production.
This helps you maintain a greater level of independence from the grid, ensuring a continuous and reliable power supply.
Our batteries can be programmed to leverage low-cost tariffs, allowing you to charge them from the grid when electricity rates are at their lowest.
This smart feature can make significant savings on your energy bills, maximising your investment.
Embrace the power of battery storage and enjoy increased self-sufficiency, cost savings, and greater control over your energy usage.
03. What happens when the Battery Storage is full?
If your battery is fully charged and you still have excess energy that you can’t use, it will flow back to the grid.
This is beneficial as it helps decrease the reliance on energy produced by power stations of different types.
The great thing is that this exported energy can be measured, and you can often sell it back to the grid through your energy provider.
This program is called the Smart Export Guarantee payment (SEG), and it can be quite valuable.
The rates for selling your excess energy back to the grid may vary depending on your supplier and the specific tariff you’re on.
Typically, you can expect somewhere between 5p and 15p per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of energy exported.
It’s worth exploring this option as it not only contributes to a greener energy system but can also provide you with financial benefits.
04. Do I need Battery Storage if I have Solar PV?
The short answer is no, solar PV works effectively on its own, especially when someone is at home to utilise the generated electricity, such as running appliances like the washing machine or tumble dryer.
Batteries can also be used independently and offer significant advantages when taking advantage of low charging rates.
However, when solar PV and batteries are combined into a single system, the results are often remarkable.
Depending on the weather conditions, this combined setup can keep you off the grid for extended periods, providing astonishing levels of self-sufficiency.
05. What are the benefits of battery storage installations?
Battery storage installations provide energy independence, reduce reliance on the grid, and can lower energy costs by storing excess energy.
06. What maintenance is required for battery storage systems?
Battery storage systems generally require minimal maintenance, but regular checks and monitoring are recommended to ensure optimal performance.
Common Queries
EV Charging
01. Do I need a special permit for home EV charger installation?
In most cases, you do not need a special permit for home EV charger installation, but it’s advisable to check with your local council for specific regulations.
02. What are the requirements for installing an EV charger at home?
Requirements for installing an EV charger at home include having a suitable electrical supply, a designated parking space, and compliance with local electrical codes.
03. How long does it take to install an EV charger?
The installation of an EV charger typically takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the installation.
04. What brands of EV chargers do you install?
We install a variety of EV charger brands, including but not limited to Tesla, Rolec, and Pod Point.
05. Are there any government incentives for EV charger installation?
Yes, there are government incentives available for EV charger installation, such as grants and tax credits, which can help reduce the overall cost.
Common Queries
Underfloor Heating
01. Is Underfloor Heating expensive to run?
Underfloor heating can be costly to run when paired with a boiler because boilers typically deliver water at a higher temperature than what is suitable for underfloor heating.
To prevent any damage to the floor, the hot water needs to be blended with cooler water, resulting in wasted heat and an inefficient system.
However, by utilising Air Source Heat Pumps, you can set them to operate at a temperature that perfectly suits your underfloor system.
This makes the entire setup much more efficient and, as a result, significantly cheaper to run.
Heat pumps are highly recommended for underfloor heating systems, ensuring optimal performance and cost-effectiveness.
02. Is carpet suitable for Underfloor Heating?
In general, carpets are a suitable choice for underfloor heating systems.
While there is specific underlay designed for this purpose, most carpets work exceptionally well with underfloor heating.
It’s a good idea to communicate with the underfloor system designers and inform them about the final carpet covering you intend to use.
This way, they can ensure that the system design aligns with your carpet choice.
Additionally, it’s important to inform your carpet suppliers that you have underfloor heating.
They can provide you with appropriate advice and recommendations based on this information.
By sharing this detail with both the system designers and carpet suppliers, you can ensure a seamless integration between your system and carpet, creating a comfortable and efficient heating experience.
03. Is Underfloor Heating messy to install?
Installing underfloor heating in new build properties is relatively straightforward but retrofitting it in existing homes can be more disruptive.
There are two primary types of underfloor heating: pipe and screed, and overboarding.
Whilst there are other variations, they generally fall under these categories.
For pipe and screed retrofitting, the process involves digging out the current screed and subfloor, installing insulation, fitting underfloor pipework, and pouring a new screed layer.
Once completed, the finished floor can be installed.
Overboarding systems, on the other hand, are placed on top of the existing floor.
The pipe work is fitted within the boards, and a latex screed is poured to cover the pipes.
Finally, the desired final floor covering can be installed.
It’s important to note that this method adds approximately 25mm to the floor height, requiring adjustments to skirting boards and doors to accommodate the change.
While retrofitting underfloor heating can be more involved, the result can provide enhanced comfort and energy efficiency in your home.
It’s recommended to consult with professionals who can assess your specific situation and guide you through the process to ensure a successful installation.
Common Queries
Servicing & Maintenance
01. How often should I service my air source heat pump?
It is recommended to service your air source heat pump at least once a year to maintain efficiency and prevent potential issues.
02. What does an air source heat pump service include?
An air source heat pump service typically includes checking refrigerant levels, cleaning filters, inspecting electrical components, and ensuring the system is functioning correctly.
03.What are the benefits of regular air source heat pump servicing?
Regular servicing can improve efficiency, reduce energy bills, extend the lifespan of the system, and ensure compliance with warranty requirements.
04. What is included in an air source heat pump annual service?
An annual service typically includes a thorough inspection, cleaning of components, checking for leaks, and ensuring the system is operating at peak efficiency.
05. What should I do if my air source heat pump is not working properly?
If your air source heat pump is not working properly, you should contact a professional service provider to diagnose and repair the issue.