AOS Blog
Do Heat Pumps Work in Old or Large Homes?
Heat pumps are becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to improve energy efficiency and reduce their reliance on gas or oil heating. But if you live in an older or larger home, you might be wondering whether a heat pump is a practical solution for your property.
The good news is that heat pumps can work effectively in older and larger homes—but there are a few important factors to consider. In this guide, we’ll explore how heat pumps perform in these types of properties and what steps you can take to maximise efficiency.
Can Heat Pumps Work in Older Homes?
Older homes, especially those built before the 20th century, were not designed with modern heating systems in mind. They often have solid walls, single glazing, and lower insulation levels, which can make heating less efficient. However, this doesn’t mean a heat pump won’t work - it just means a few adjustments might be needed to get the best performance.
Key Considerations for Heat Pumps in Older Homes
1. Insulation & Draught-Proofing
o Heat pumps work best in well-insulated homes. If your property lacks sufficient insulation, you may experience heat loss, leading to higher running costs.
o Consider loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and draught-proofing before installing a heat pump.
2. Heating System Compatibility
o Older homes typically have smaller radiators, designed for high-temperature heating systems like gas or oil boilers.
o Heat pumps operate at lower temperatures, meaning you may need to upgrade to larger radiators or underfloor heating for optimal performance.
3. Listed Buildings & Planning Permission
o If your home is listed or in a conservation area, you may need planning permission for an air source heat pump. Ground source heat pumps can be a good alternative if external units are restricted.
o Always check with your local planning authority before proceeding.
Can You Use a Heat Pump in a Period Property?
Yes! While period homes may require additional upgrades (such as insulation or radiator replacements), heat pumps can still be a viable and energy-efficient heating solution. Many historic homes across the UK have successfully switched to heat pump technology.
Do Heat Pumps Work in Large Homes?
If you own a large property, heating efficiency is often a major concern. The bigger the house, the more energy is required to maintain a comfortable temperature. Fortunately, heat pumps can still be an excellent option, provided they are correctly sized and installed by a professional.
Key Considerations for Heat Pumps in Large Homes
1. Correct Sizing of the Heat Pump
o Heat pumps come in different sizes, measured in kilowatts (kW). The larger your home, the higher the capacity you’ll need.
o A professional heat pump installer, like AOS Energy Efficient Heating Systems, can conduct a heat loss calculation to determine the right size for your home.
2. Multiple Zones for Heating
o Large homes often benefit from zoned heating, where different areas of the house are heated independently.
o Heat pumps work well with smart thermostats to manage different temperature zones efficiently.
3. Backup Heating (If Required)
o In extremely cold weather, some larger homes may require an additional backup heating system, such as a hybrid setup that combines a heat pump with a traditional boiler.
o However, most well-insulated homes won’t need this, as modern heat pumps work efficiently even in freezing temperatures.
Conclusion
Yes, heat pumps can work effectively in older and larger homes, but some considerations must be taken into account. Good insulation, correct system sizing, and proper installation are key to getting the best performance.
If you’re considering a heat pump for your property, AOS Energy Efficient Heating Systems can help. We specialise in installing air source heat pumps for all property types, including period homes and large houses in Cambridgeshire, South Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire. Contact us today for expert advice and a free consultation!
