In the electric radiators vs heat pumps debate, there are a few core differences that you need to understand before you go ahead with either, but it’s also important to consider the difference between a heat pump and a boiler to produce your heating. Here, we’re taking a closer look at everything you need to know when comparing electric radiators vs. heat pumps, the differences between a boiler and a heat pump, and how the two types of heating compare.
The Core Differences Between A Heat Pump & Boiler
First of all, a heat pump and a radiator will produce different types of heat. A radiator that is run through a gas boiler will produce heat with a high temperature, within a short period of time. A heat pump will produce het with a smaller temperature difference, and this will be generated much more slowly. This is essentially a form of convector radiator as the heat pumps require a large surface area in comparison to a radiator controlled by a boiler. The same end result is created for the homeowner, but the technologies require two different design setups.
What Properties Suit A Heat Pump vs. A Radiator?
If you are living in a highly insulated or larger property, then a heat pump may be a more suitable heating solution for you as the temperature can build up over a long period of time. However, in older, less efficient buildings, then a traditional boiler will be better suited. The cost of fitting a heat pump in an existing building can be significantly higher than what it is in a new build property.
Electric Radiators vs. Heat Pumps
When doing a direct comparison between electric radiators vs. heat pumps, there are two things to consider – the cost of installation and maintenance, and energy efficiency.
Some energy model studies considered the approach to compare the two in hypothetical homes. These studies suggest that electric heaters produce 3x more carbon per unit, however, this was not supported by real-world data studies. In others, an assumption that heat pumps would be 300% more energy efficient compared to electric radiators – The Energy Saving Trust suggested an average of 245% and UCL suggested an average of 293%. However, there were also many installations delivering higher and lower results therefore there were considerable variations within the data.
In addition, electric heaters are deemed to be cheaper to purchase, install and maintain, although the heat pump has the potential for longer-lasting durability. There is no clear determination about who would win the battle of electric radiators vs. heat pumps as every home’s energy use is different – speak to an expert member of our team to find the right solution for your home’s heating.
As you can see, there are a lot of considerations to take when determining what is the right heating option for your home. With heat pumps becoming increasingly popular with even Building Regulations moving towards low-temperature emitters in self-build properties, we are set to see more of these advanced heating solutions in properties (particularly new-builds). That doesn’t mean that the age of the electric radiator is coming to an end, however, with plenty of properties continuing to use this form of heating as a quick warming solution for their homes. If you’re unsure what the right heating option is for you, simply speak to a member of our expert team at 0800 876 6813.
Heat Pump vs. Electric Radiator FAQs
Will my radiators be all right if I change my boiler to an air-source heat pump?
Your existing radiators should have been sized to suit the existing boiler installation, if you are changing the boiler to an air source heat pump or similar then the existing radiators will still be all right but will need checking to see if they are adequately sized for the new heat source, this can be conducted by the installer or competent person.
If I change my radiators now, will they still work with if I change my boiler to an air-source heat pump.?
If you are changing your radiators now, they will be sized to suit your existing boiler installation, if later you change your boiler installation to an air source heat pump or similar the radiators will still work, however as they should have been sized for the existing boiler installation these may need checking to see if they are adequately sized for the new heat source.
If you are contemplating changing your boiler to an air-source heat pump or similar at a later date you may want to discuss this with an installer or competent person to size the radiators for the future installation of an air-source heat pump or similar.
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