In virtually all homes, the majority of the energy you use goes towards heating the property. So, it stands to reason that if you’re looking to be more sustainable and reduce your carbon footprint, you need to find a more environmentally friendly heating system.
In the government’s bid to reduce carbon emissions by 2050, there will be a ban on gas boilers in new homes by 2025. By 2035, the UK hopes to phase out all installations of gas boilers entirely. But there’s no need to wait for the ban to make the switch and getting away from fossil fuel heating not only helps to make your home more sustainable but it also cuts your heating costs considerably.
Low carbon heating systems are a great solution. But how do they work, what options fall under this category and how do you get started with investing in a renewable heating system for your property?
What are low carbon heating systems?
There are three main options when it comes to low carbon heating – heat pumps, biomass boilers and solar water heating.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps come in two main forms – ground source heat pumps and air source heat pumps. They’re a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel heaters and offer a low carbon source of heating. The way in which heat pumps work is by absorbing heat from the ground or air, transferring it to a liquid and compressing it to increase the temperature which is then used to heat your home.
This option provides several benefits for property owners. Firstly, they can lower your fuel bills, particularly when compared to the cost of a conventional electric heater, and they can reduce your household carbon emissions. They can be used to heat your home and hot water, and they work year-round. They’re highly efficient, producing 4 kilowatts of heat for every 1 kilowatt of electricity they use, and they require very little maintenance with a lifespan of around 20 years.
Biomass Boilers
A biomass boiler system burns wood pellets, chips or logs to power central heating and hot water boilers. This form of heating system does emit carbon dioxide but at a far lower level than coal or oil burners, and since it uses fuel that is regenerative, it’s a more sustainable option.
Biomass boilers are affordable and often cheaper than other heating options, and the carbon dioxide levels emitted are the same as that absorbed when the plant used for the fuel was growing. With UK landfill sites taking in tonnes of waste wood every year, using wood for fuel isn’t just sustainable in terms of producing the material but it can also take the strain off landfill sites.
Solar Water Heating
Solar water heating systems use solar panels to collect heat from the sun and use it to heat water stored in a hot water cylinder. They can be used in conjunction with an immersion heater or a conventional boiler to make the water hotter or to heat water when solar energy isn’t available.
Solar water heaters provide hot water throughout the year and can help to reduce your energy bills. Since sunlight is a free energy source and renewable, it’s a far more sustainable option and one that can help to lower the carbon footprint of the home.
What to consider when choosing a low carbon heating system
There are several factors to consider when choosing the right heating system for your property. First is cost – your budget will play a big role in which heating system fits your needs. Air source heat pumps can range from £4,000 to £11,000 to install, while ground source heat pumps vary between £8,000 to £12,000 upfront cost. A biomass boiler will set you back between £4,000 and £10,000, depending on the size of your property, while solar panels will cost in the region of £3,000 to £5,000.
Space is also something to consider. For heat pumps, you’ll need to check whether your home is suitable, and you have the space to install the pipework for a ground source heat pump and adequate space for airflow around an air source pump. Likewise, you’ll need around 4-5 square metres of roof space for solar panels, and you’ll need to check that your roof is oriented in the right direction for maximum sun exposure. A biomass boiler requires space for the boiler itself, as well as room to store the fuel. You may also need planning permission for installation of these systems, depending on your property and location.
Every home is different, and the costs, benefits and suitability of each system will vary from home to home. Researching and working with a licensed, experienced team will help you make the right choice for your property and your budget. However, whichever option you choose, the upfront cost of installing a low carbon heating system will be outweighed by the positive environmental benefits and the long-term savings they provide.
For more information about low carbon heating systems or to receive a free quote, get in touch with our friendly team today to discuss your options.
