Performance of domestic heat-pump project is independently monitored
As part of an independent research project into the everyday performance of heat pumps in homes, a housing association in Staffordshire is changing the heating system of an entire development of bungalows to Dimplex ground-source heat pumps.
This project comprises nine warden-linked bungalows in the village of Swynnerton, of which five will take part in a year-long survey by the Energy Saving Trust to monitor ground- and air-source heat pumps in real-life installations across the UK.
Colin Roff of Stafford & Rural Homes, says, When we were looking at replacing the heating in these properties, fuel poverty was a consideration as economic heating is very important to our tenants. We needed to find something that was future proof and cost effective — with no costly regular maintenance bills or annual inspection visits.’ Dimplex says that its heat pumps typically have twice the life expectancy of a boiler, up to 25 years, and low ownership costs.
This project received a 50% grant for the costs of the heat-pump installation under Phase 2 of the Low Carbon Building Programme. Dimplex is one of only three framework suppliers that has access to this funding.
Three suppliers were considered for the project. The association is now considering Dimplex air-source heat pumps for another site, which is not suitable for ground-source heat pumps as it is on a hill.
