Distribution systems

Heating boilers use radiators, coils, or radiant floors.

Heat pumps can work with air ducts, radiators, or radiant floors. However, a heat pump can only effectively cool your home when you choose air duct distribution.

Heating boilers can use any conventional energy source (oil, natural gas, propane, electricity, biomass pellets).

Heat pumps use electricity and refrigerant as their energy source. They move heat stored in the air, water, or soil to do the job.

 

Space requirements
 

Heating boilers can be installed in one of two ways: floor-standing or wall-mounted. However, each reduces the available space in the room depending on the size of the unit, plus a safety fence.

Suppose you also want your heating boiler to provide hot water. In that case, you have two options: a conventional hot water tank or a smaller combination boiler connected to the mains to eliminate the need for a tank.

Heat pumps require both indoor and outdoor space. Indoor units are usually very compact and can be mounted on higher walls to save space.

The size of the outdoor space required varies from one heat pump type to another. Air-to-water heat pumps only require a space similar to a traditional outdoor air conditioner. Water-source heat pumps require access to a nearby pond and pipes between the water and your home.

Geothermal heat pumps have a duct system that can run horizontally or vertically, depending on space availability.

 

 

Energy efficiency
 

A well-maintained heating boiler can now easily provide up to 98.5% energy efficiency.

But heat pumps go beyond this near-perfect rating, with modern heat pumps reaching efficiencies of up to 400%. Heat pumps recover heat from the air, water, or ground.

 

 

The installation complexity
 

In general, heating boiler systems are relatively easy to install. An exception is if you need to install a distribution system or modify or repair an existing distribution system.

Air-to-water or air-to-air heat pumps are also relatively easy to set up.

On the other hand, a water or geothermal heat pump may cause damage to the surrounding soil or water due to the need for a piping system.

 

 

Maintenance
 

Heating boilers should be inspected and maintained at least once a year to maintain energy efficiency.

Heat pumps can run longer without inspection and maintenance, although annual maintenance is recommended to prevent small problems from becoming larger and more complex.

 

 

Initial investment
 

Regardless of the type, heating boilers are generally less expensive than heat pump systems.

Government-funded rebates and credits are often available for upgrading a heating boiler or heat pump system.

 

No, from 2025, gas boilers will not be prohibited. However, from 2022, new properties are unlikely to meet the 75-80% carbon reduction target for gas boilers.

There are three main factors to consider before installing an air-to-water heat pump.

 

Cost: 
 

The cost of installing an air-to-water heat pump usually ranges from €8,000 to €15,000. Additional costs may be involved, depending on the type of system chosen (if you need both cooling and heating), the size of your property and your specific needs.

 

Insulation: 
 

If you want a high savings return, the important thing is to have a well-insulated house, especially attic insulation. This way, the heat generated inside the house does not escape and stays warm during winter.

 

Installation procedures: 
 

You must find the right procedures to ensure the heat pump is installed properly. You should do your due diligence, such as checking if the installer has the necessary certifications, has a good track record, and if you get a fair price.