What should you look for before buying a heat pump?

1. The type of heat pump 

There are typically three main types of heat pumps that you need to decide between. They are: 

• Ground source heat pump – Extracts solar energy stored in the ground to supply your home with heating and hot water. During warm summer days, it also cools it down.
• Air source heat pump – Uses heat energy from the outside air.
• Exhaust air heat pump – Reuses the energy from warm indoor air as it passes through a ventilation system. 

 Based on your living arrangements and heat pump needs, it’s important to carefully consider which type of heat pump is best for you. 

2. Energy efficiency 

It’s essential to look for high energy efficiency when buying a heat pump. Using the Coefficient of Performance (CoP) rating, which is the amount of heat produced for every unit of electricity, you want to be looking at a heat pump with as high a rating as possible. This gives you the best chance of being more energy efficient and cost-effective. 

Having a heat pump doesn’t automatically guarantee that you’ll save money on your energy bills, so always make sure you consider how efficient it is. 

3. Features 

Heat pump technology is constantly evolving, with new features being introduced all the time. Try to make sure you opt for a newer model with as many advanced features as possible. Here are just some of the top features to be aware of: 

• Variable-speed motors 
• Built-in thermostats 
• Programmable settings 
• Scroll compressors 
• Timers 
• Back-up burners 

Having the latest features could end up saving you money and will almost certainly improve performance. Make sure you do your research.  

4. Noise 

Heat pumps used to have a reputation for being rather noisy, but better technology has meant that systems are now a lot quieter. However, there are some on the market that still present you with a nasty throwback to the noisier heat pumps of the past.  

Depending on where your heat pump is installed, noise levels should be a serious consideration. The last thing you want is the machine to keep you (or your neighbours!) up all night. If noise is a concern, then the NIBE S2125 ticks all of the right boxes thanks to its innovative design. 

5. Sizing 

From poor temperature control to expensive energy bills, there are several issues that can arise from having the wrong kW output of the heat pump required for heating and hot water. Getting the size wrong could mean you’re unable to achieve a comfortable temperature in your home, as climate, the number of windows and home insulation can all determine how big the heat pump needs to be. 

6. Cost 

The cost can vary massively depending on the heat pump’s output size, features and the company you buy it from. That’s why it’s important to have a budget in mind before you start looking and ensure you buy from a reputable brand. Remember, with some energy-efficient heat pumps you may be paying slightly more initially, but it should save you money in the long run.  

You can also save money by enquiring about funding and grants through schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. 

In terms of cost, another important consideration is the installation cost. Installation prices will depend on the heat pump model and size, as well as the business providing the service. Make sure you always factor in the installation cost into your total budget.  

Why not check out our full range of heat pumps at NIBE for market-leading products at a competitive price? 

7. Brand reputation 

There are a plethora of different heat pump brands on the market, but not all of them are trustworthy and reliable. You want to ensure you’re buying a quality product that will guarantee high performance and longevity. 

Like NIBE, which has been creating sustainable energy solutions since 1952, using Nordic heritage to combine renewable energy with new intelligent technologies. We are incredibly proud of our heat pump range and think you’ll be delighted with the results! 

Whoever you choose, make sure you do your research, talk to a reputable installer and shop around first. Speak to a NIBE expert who will review your project and put you in touch with one of our NIBE Pro Installers.

8. Maintenance 

All heat pumps will require some form of maintenance in order to run efficiently. However, cheap, poorly manufactured systems will require more maintenance than high-quality heat pumps. This is worth considering when you start shopping around, as the cheapest options are often not the best.  

After all, a heat pump is a long-term investment in your home and choosing the right solution will save you money in the long run. 

Make sure you have a look at warranty offers and service charges, as this could really impact how much money you pay for service and repairs further down the line. It’s also worth looking at how easy it is to source the various parts of a heat pump that might need replacing at some point.  

9. Quality of the installer 

Put simply, the better it is sized (for output) and installed, the more efficiently it will run. That’s why our NIBE Pros are the best professionals for the job, as we give them extended warranties because they're trained by us and are best equipped to install our products. 

Why should you choose NIBE? 

Hopefully, you’re now a little wiser and more knowledgeable about the various factors you should consider when buying a heat pump. By working through the list in this article when you start browsing, you’ll ensure that you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.  

If you do choose us, then you’ll be pleased to know that NIBE is a world-leading innovation company with intelligent, energy-efficient products that enable the sustainable future of society. We believe our heat pumps are the perfect solution for heating your home in a cost-effective, environmentally friendly way. 

You can explore our heat pump products range today and speak to a NIBE expert who will review your project and put you in touch with one of our NIBE Pro Installers.

For more guidance, get in touch with our experienced team.