Heat pumps that draw warmth from the air or ground may be crucial to the UK reaching carbon net zero by 2050, but consumers are baffled by them, according to new research.
With gas boilers a source of carbon emissions, the pumps are cited as the future of central heating. But two thirds of the public are not confident that they understand how they work or how to get one installed, the survey says.
The data, from law firm Shakespeare Martineau, found that just 12% of people surveyed plan to replace their current heating system with a heat pump (with a preference for air or ground source pumps split 50/50). Almost two out of five people said that if their heating system needed replacing in the next six months, they would opt for a gas boiler.
The price of heat pumps was also putting people off, with 57% saying cost was a factor. According to the Energy Saving Trust, this comes in at between £7,000 and £13,000 depending on the size of your property and other factors. When asked about the government’s £5,000 grants to subsidise installation of the pumps, 60% were unaware of the scheme.
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Energy partner at Shakespeare Martineau, Sushma Maharaj, said:
“The Chancellor’s announcement to scrap VAT on energy saving technology is a step in the right direction, but will still leave the public – particularly the average ‘able to pay’ household – well out of pocket. When consumers are already combatting the rising cost of living, if they are required to fork out large sums for new technology there needs to be further incentives, such as additional grants, interest-free loans, reduced council tax or greater influence of EPC rating on the value of their home.”
Claytons blog was created to give light hearted but hopefully useful property related thoughts and advice.
David started his career at former family firm, Weller Hill Hubble aged 17. The company was later purchased by General Accident property services and David went on to become their youngest ever manager and Area Director. However, disenchanted with corporate life he decided to return to his old roots and start a personal, service driven Estate agency. In 1991 Claytons was born and has grown into one of Watfords most well known and successful businesses. Outside of work David , who still lives locally is married with 3 children and a cockapoo called Teddy.
