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unit, meaning the property has a functioning heating system as soon as possible. In terms of noise emitted from the systems,


hybrid units are a lot quieter than one may imag- ine, with outdoor units producing a similar level of noise as that of a hushed conversation. Hybrid systems often have two heating


modes: ‘ecological’ and ‘economical’. In eco- logical mode, the user can decide to minimise the ecological impact of their heating system by limiting its carbon emissions. When in econom- ical mode, the smart control automatically searches for and chooses the most cost effective heating solution, based upon energy prices (electricity and gas), heat pump efficiency and heat load. When compared to other off mains gas heating solutions such as traditional gas or LPG fueled systems, the more the hybrid heat pump system runs – the more money it is contin- uously saving from household bills. Plus, if installed by an appropriately Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) qualified installer, the system is also eligible for the Government-funded domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). The scheme works by mak- ing a payment into into the homeowner’s bank account every three months at a fixed rate paid for every kilowatt hour (kWh) of renewable heat- ing energy produced. For the best performing properties, hybrid systems can produce an annual RHI income of up to £3,300. The energy efficiency rating of a system


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should therefore be a significant factor when purchasing a heat pump. Based upon how much electricity is used, versus how much heat the heat pump generates, the energy label is a clear and simple indicator of energy efficiency. Heat pump energy labels range from A++ to G, where A++ represents the most energy efficient system available and consequently, the highest energy savings and potential RHI payments. Unlike most traditional boilers, which when


turned on generate anxiety surrounding the cost of energy, hybrid heat pumps can actually save on household expenditure through the RHI. Ideal for self-builders, the heat pump –boiler system provides the peace of mind that the property’s heating is not solely relying on renewable tech- nology, while significantly reducing property run- ning costs and carbon emissions.


n a recent research project, Leeds Beckett University analysed data from a selection of two and three-bedroom homes across the UK, installed with 5 kW and 8 kW capacity hybrid systems. Aiming to independently verify the high efficiencies of hybrid systems, the Centre for the Built Environment at Leeds Beckett University wanted to highlight the important role heat pumps can play in reducing the UK’s carbon emissions.


The properties were all monitored for one year, throughout all of the seasons to ensure capture of the systems true seasonal efficiency. The results found that hybrid heat pump systems out-perform conventional boiler systems, with the heat pump itself relied on for between 48 per cent and 94 per cent of space heating annually. This therefore reduced the property’s space-heating costs by 22 per cent on average, and in one case by up to 36 per cent – clearly demonstrating the cost saving benefits of hybrid systems.


Enq. 132 selfbuilder & homemaker www.sbhonline.co.uk 49


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