Advantages and Disadvantages of a Hybrid Heating SystemAdvantages and Disadvantages of a Hybrid Heating System
A hybrid heating system combines a traditional gas or oil boiler with a renewable energy source such as an air source heat pump.
Hybrid solutions are often recommended for those who want to take advantage of all the benefits of renewable energy but whose homes are not suitable to be powered in such a manner.
In Scotland, for example, many properties are quite large and many years old with a significant amount of energy required to meet the heat requirements of the inhabitants.
In this situation, a single heat pump may be unable to fully satisfy the demand but can certainly be a fantastic contributor in a hybrid system.
Many people are unaware that hybrid heating solutions are even available, so we have put together this guide to the pros and cons of installing one in your home.
Advantages
Lower Energy Bills
Energy prices are at an all time high in the UK, with the cost of fossil fuels such as gas and oil skyrocketing in recent years.
With the Government threatening further restrictions and tariffs on such energy supplies in a bid to meet climate targets, this rise shows no sign of slowing, and installing a renewable heating source has never been a better financial decision.
Whilst your heat pump or similar will not provide 100% of your heat, and your boiler will still be required during the winter months, its usage will be dramatically reduced.
As a result, you will see a major drop off in your annual energy bills immediately after installation and provide yourself with some protection against future market fluctuations.
It is estimated that by installing a hybrid heating system, Scottish homeowners could see their annual heating bills slashed by an incredible 50%.
Increased Energy Efficiency
Hybrid heating provides homeowners with fantastic efficiency levels, with smart technology installed within the system itself automatically switching between your boiler and your heat pump, depending on what is deemed most effective at any moment.
In the summer, you will likely be able to meet all your hot water needs using your heat pump alone, whilst when temperature drops in the heart of winter, your boiler will perform better.
In optimal conditions, a heat pump will generate 3-4 units of heat energy for every 1 unit of electric energy it uses to operate, given the system an unrivalled efficiency level of around 300-400%.
In comparison, electric heating is only 100% energy efficient, whilst even the newest and most efficient combi boiler will max out at around 95%.
Reduced carbon emissions
Saving money is awesome, but by installing a heating system partially fuelled through renewable means, you will be helping to save the planet all at the same time.
Home heating in the UK is estimated to account for around 15% of the UK’s total carbon emissions with hot water and heating making up the vast amount of your total C02 output.
As we all become more aware of just how important clean energy is to protect the environment there really is no better time to invest in renewable energy.
Qualify for the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI)
Reducing carbon emissions is not only important for you, it is also essential to the Government who have committed to reaching net zero by 2050, and reducing home heating is essential to meeting this goal.
For this reason, there are a number of incentives encouraging homeowners to invest in renewable technology, and by installing a heat pump in your home, you will qualify for the RHI scheme that requires energy suppliers to pay you for every kWh of heat you produce by renewable means.
RHI payments will be made on a quarterly basis over 7 years following installation.
Disadvantages
Installation Costs
Whilst installing a hybrid heating Glasgow system is an excellent long-term investment, with the unit more than paying for itself over its lifespan, there is a significant upfront cost to be aware of.
For this reason, it may not be worthwhile if you intend to move in the first few years after installation.
The cost of installing a hybrid heating system in the UK tends to range from around £5000-10000.
Luckily, by using multiple heating sources throughout the year, the lifespan of both your heat pump and boiler will be significantly increased meaning that you won’t need to pay for repairs or replacements in the near future.
Not 100% clean
Whilst you will significantly reduce your carbon footprint by installing a hybrid heating system, such a set-up is not completely emission free.
This is because some of your energy will still be produced via your fossil fuel burning boiler as well as your heat pump needing a small amount of electricity to run, some of which will be produced through non-renewable means.