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Understanding Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are an increasingly popular choice for self-build projects, especially for those plots without access to a gas supply and considering oil as an alternative. A heat pump is an energy-efficient device that extracts heat from the air, ground, or water and uses it to heat your home and provide hot water. They work similarly to refrigerators but in reverse, transferring heat from outside to inside. There are two main types of heat pumps commonly used in residential properties:
Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP): These absorb heat from the outside air, even in cold temperatures, and transfer it indoors.
Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP): These extract heat from the ground via a network of pipes buried underground.
Benefits of Heat Pumps for Self-Builders
For self-builders, especially those in remote locations without a gas supply, heat pumps offer numerous benefits:
Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps are highly efficient, often providing three to four times the amount of energy they consume.
Lower Carbon Footprint: By using renewable heat from the environment, heat pumps significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to oil or gas heating systems.
Reduced Running Costs: Although the initial installation cost can be high, heat pumps have lower operating costs, leading to long-term savings.
Eligibility for Incentives: Installing a heat pump may make you eligible for government incentives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS).
What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a government grant for people in England and Wales who want to install a heat pump or a biomass boiler.
How much funding is available?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme covers three low-carbon heating systems. The level of grant towards a heat pump increased from £5,000 to £7,500 on 23 October 2023.
Air Source Heat Pump: £7,500 towards cost and installation.
Ground Source Heat Pump: £7,500 towards cost and installation.
Biomass Boiler: £5,000 off cost and installation.
Applications to the BUS tripled the week after the government increased the grant, helping to address one of the barriers to adopting the technology.
How will I know which low-carbon heating system is right for my property?
Your installer can advise whether a heat pump or biomass boiler is suitable for your property. Although you’re not required to have home insulation to qualify for the BUS, the installer may recommend improving the energy efficiency of your property first.
Who can apply to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The BUS is open to homeowners and owners of small business properties in England and Wales only.
To apply, you’ll need to:
Own your property (this can be a home or a small business property).
Have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
Have a property with an installation capacity up to 45kWth (kilowatt-thermal). This covers most homes.
How can I apply to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
Find an MCS certified installer in your area who can carry out the work. We recommend you contact three installers for quotes.
The installer will tell you if you’re eligible for a BUS grant.
Agree on a quote with your installer. The value of the grant from the BUS will be deducted as part of the quote.
The installer will apply for the grant and carry out the work.
Why Choose an MCS Accredited Installer?
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is a quality assurance scheme that certifies both products and installers to ensure they meet high standards. Here’s why choosing an MCS accredited installer is crucial for your self-build project:
1. Quality Assurance
MCS accredited installers have undergone rigorous training and adhere to stringent standards, ensuring high-quality installations. This reduces the risk of poor workmanship and ensures that your heat pump system will operate efficiently and reliably.
2. Compliance with Regulations
Using an MCS accredited installer ensures compliance with building regulations and standards. Non-compliance can lead to costly modifications and legal issues down the line.
3. Access to Government Incentives
Many government incentives and grants, like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), require your heat pump system to be installed by an MCS accredited installer. Choosing a non-MCS registered company could mean missing out on these financial benefits.
4. Experience and Expertise
MCS accredited installers are experienced professionals who stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices. They can offer valuable advice on the best system for your specific needs and ensure optimal performance of your heat pump.
We take pride in our 100% success rate in securing BUS grants for our clients, ensuring you get the maximum financial support available for your heat pump installation.
Risks of Choosing a Non-MCS Registered Installer
1. Lack of Experience
Non-MCS registered companies may lack the necessary experience and training to install heat pumps effectively. This can lead to improper installations, system failures, and higher maintenance costs.
2. No Quality Guarantee
Without the MCS accreditation, there is no assurance of quality or compliance with industry standards. This can result in inefficient operation, higher energy bills, and a shorter system lifespan.
3. Ineligibility for Incentives
Installing a heat pump through a non-MCS registered company means you won't be eligible for valuable government incentives and grants. This can significantly impact the overall cost-effectiveness of your investment.
4. Potential Legal and Compliance Issues
Non-MCS registered installers may not be familiar with all the regulatory requirements, leading to potential legal issues and the need for costly corrections to meet building standards.
Case Study: MCS Accredited Installer vs. Non-MCS Registered Company
Let's consider two self-build projects to illustrate the differences between choosing an MCS accredited installer and a non-MCS registered company.
Project A: MCS Accredited Installer
John and Sarah are building a new home on a plot without a gas supply. They decide to install an air source heat pump and choose an MCS accredited installer.
Quality Installation: The MCS accredited installer conducts a thorough assessment of the property and recommends the most suitable heat pump system. The installation is completed to high standards, ensuring optimal performance.
Government Incentives: John and Sarah are eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which provides £7,500 towards the cost and installation of their heat pump system, significantly reducing their overall investment.
Peace of Mind: The installer provides a comprehensive warranty and ongoing maintenance support, ensuring the system runs efficiently and any issues are promptly addressed.
Project B: Non-MCS Registered Company
Tom and Emma are also building a new home on a similar plot but choose a non-MCS registered company to install their ground source heat pump.
Subpar Installation: The non-MCS installer lacks the necessary expertise, resulting in an improper installation. The system does not perform efficiently, leading to higher energy bills and frequent breakdowns.
No Incentives: Tom and Emma are not eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, making their initial investment significantly higher compared to John and Sarah's project.
Higher Costs and Stress: Without a quality guarantee, Tom and Emma face ongoing issues with their heat pump, resulting in higher maintenance costs and increased stress.
Conclusion
Choosing an MCS accredited installer for heat pump installation is crucial for quality, compliance, and access to grants like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Our expertise in securing BUS grants can help self-builders achieve a sustainable heating solution for their new home.
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