The heat pump is very popular with those looking for an environmentally friendly and cost-effective method of heating their home. The device uses renewable sources to extract energy, which it passes on to the building’s installations. However, it is worth exploring alternatives to the pump that can also be used to heat your home. Find out which suggestions may be particularly beneficial for you.
A heat pump draws its energy from the environment, or more precisely from a lower source, which can be air, ground, or water. It therefore does not generate it, as is the case with gas, electric, coal, or wood-fired boilers. The principle of this appliance is similar to that of a refrigerator. However, unlike a refrigerator, it does not release heat to the outside, but the opposite. It extracts heat, which is then transferred to the heating system inside the building.
There are many benefits to using a heat pump, the main ones being:
It is also a virtually maintenance-free device. In addition, investors planning to purchase and install heat pumps can count on subsidies.
A fireplace can provide heating for the entire house, provided it is equipped with a hot air supply system (DGP) or a water jacket. In the former case, the heat is distributed through insulated pipes ending in grilles in the individual rooms. If you want to heat a building with a larger volume in this way, it is necessary to use a supply apparatus.
The mantelpiece fireplace is in turn connected to the central heating system. In this way, the heat is distributed throughout the house. However, if you opt for this solution, you usually have to reckon with higher costs than for a model with a DGP system.
Can a water-jacketed fireplace and heat pump be combined?
Many people wonder whether a water-heating fireplace and a heat pump will work together without any problems. Such a solution, when they are to work in parallel in a single circuit, is complicated and, above all, less cost-effective. The heat pump operates on closed and pressurized systems, while the fireplace usually operates in closed mode. Combining them is possible by using a suitable heat exchanger, but involves high costs. It must also be remembered that this also generates high heat losses. If you nevertheless want to have both devices in your home, opt for a fireplace without a water jacket. This will then have a mainly decorative function and will also provide thermal comfort in the room it is placed in.
Electric heating can also be an alternative to a heat pump. For it to function as intended, access to electricity is required. One of the most popular types of electric heating is storage cookers. These can store heat when, for example, electricity is cheapest and use it at a later time. This reduces the costs associated with electricity consumption somewhat.
Another solution is electric underfloor heating in the form of cables, mats, or special foils. These distribute heat evenly throughout the room, thus ensuring the right temperature in all parts of the room. Engo Controls allows you to conveniently control such an installation. Thanks to them, your home will always be at the right temperature.
If you want to use electric heating, consider installing an electric boiler. This transfers heat to the central heating water in the radiators or underfloor heating. You can also install a controller on such a furnace to enable you to conveniently control its operation. By choosing an internet-based system, you will be able to do this even when you are away from home.
Infrared heating is another alternative to a heat pump that you can opt for. It takes the form of radiant heaters or foils installed under the screed or panels, as well as in the walls and ceiling. The heat is emitted by radiation. It is important to know that in this way, it does not heat the air, but the objects, walls, and people in the rooms. As a result, the whole process is efficient and the result is felt immediately.
Infrared heating, like a heat pump, makes it possible to become independent of non-renewable heat sources. It does not require the collection of fuel and burning it. The advantage of the former is lower installation costs. However, the installation of heating foils is more labor-intensive and usually takes more time than setting up an air pump. In the long term, it is the heat pump that may prove to be more economical, due to the high cost of the electricity that foils and radiant heaters need to generate heat.
Both solutions have their advantages and disadvantages. Nevertheless, both heat pumps and infrared heating, especially radiant foils, are becoming increasingly popular. Choosing the right solution depends mainly on your budget as well as your preferences. Both methods will work well, above all in a modern energy-efficient house with a low heat demand.
If you want to provide thermal comfort in a building in a different way than using an oil, gas or solid fuel boiler such as coal or wood, you can choose a heat pump or infrared heating. For those who appreciate a cosy atmosphere, a fireplace with a warm air supply system or a water mantle is a good option. Think carefully about your choice in order to make the best possible decision.