When you think of a heat pump, you might picture it quietly keeping the house cool through a warm summer, but did you know it can also heat your home in the middle of winter? It might seem counterintuitive, especially when the air outside feels icy cold, but modern heat pump technology is designed to work efficiently all year round.
In fact, even on those frosty UK mornings there’s still enough warmth in the air for a heat pump to extract and deliver cosy comfort indoors. Let’s go over how this works and why it's such an energy-efficient choice for colder months.
So, how do they actually work in winter?
A heat pump doesn’t generate heat like a gas boiler, instead it moves it from the outside air into your house. Even in winter, there’s heat in the air outside. Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) can extract this warmth and transfer it indoors using clever refrigerant technology.
When it’s freezing outside, it’s normal to assume there’s probably no heat to be had, but that’s not quite the case. Even at -5°C or lower, there’s still usable energy in the air. Modern heat pumps are designed to work efficiently in UK winters, even down to -15°C in some cases.
Are heat pumps efficient in winter?
Yes, heat pumps can be very efficient, even during colder months. In fact, a well-installed system can deliver around three times more heat energy than the electricity it consumes. That’s a 300% efficiency rating compared to around 90% for a new gas boiler.
This efficiency is possible because of how the heat pump compresses and concentrates the refrigerant gas inside the system, producing heat that can then warm your radiators, underfloor heating or hot water tank.
Tips to optimise your heat pump efficiency during the winter months
Even though you should be warm and cozy during the winter months with a heat pump, there are always steps you can take to improve their overall performance.
Insulate first
A heat pump performs best in a well-insulated home. If your property is draughty, more energy is required to maintain comfortable temperatures. Loft insulation, cavity wall insulation and double glazing can make a huge difference.
Use a smart thermostat
Modern heat pump systems work best when maintaining a consistent temperature, rather than turning off and on like traditional boilers. Smart thermostats help you set zones and schedules that keep your home comfortable and efficient.
Pair with solar and battery storage
Combining your heat pump with a solar and battery storage system can help reduce electricity bills in winter. You can use stored solar energy or charge the battery using cheap overnight tariffs to power your heating system during peak hours. It’s a perfect match.
Plan for gentle, continuous heating
Heat pumps are designed for steady heating rather than quick blasts of heat. Set your thermostat a little lower and let the system maintain the warmth. This is far more energy-efficient to help you save a little extra and create a more consistent indoor climate.
Book regular servicing
A well-maintained heat pump is an efficient one that you can rely on. You should trust in reliable professionals (like us!) for servicing and support to ensure your system stays in top shape throughout its lifetime and keeps you cozy when it's cool.
Get expert support in heat pump installation and maintenance
Heat pumps are a smart, energy-efficient way to keep your home warm through the coldest of UK winters. By extracting heat from the air outside (yes, even when it’s freezing), they can deliver up to three times more heat energy than they consume. And with the right setup (good insulation, smart controls, and a little help from solar and battery storage) you can enjoy lower bills and a more sustainable home all year round.
At Oakray Renewables, we go beyond simply installing the best heat pumps for your home, we design whole heating solutions tailored to your property, lifestyle and long-term goals. We’re here to ensure your system performs at its best when you need it most from your initial consultation to ongoing servicing.
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