Heat pumps are one of the most economical ways to heat with electricity. However, it’s a somewhat more expensive solution, and because it’s less commonly used in Serbia, misconceptions about heat pumps are more frequent.
We’ve already written about heating systems that use heat pumps. You can learn more about the different types of heat pumps and how they work HERE. They are modern, comfortable, and economical heating systems. However, they are also highly sophisticated systems made by renowned manufacturers, so the initial investment is higher than other heating systems.
Still, misconceptions often lead people to choose other heating methods. Here are the five most common myths about heat pumps:
1. How can they use three times less electricity? That’s just marketing!
This is definitely the number one misconception about heat pumps. At first glance, it may seem impossible that one type of electric heating could be three times more economical than another. Specifically, compared to conventional electric heating systems, heat pumps indeed consume significantly less energy.
This isn’t magic or marketing; it’s simply a completely different operating principle. While standard electric heating systems, like electric radiators, generate heat using an electric heater, heat pumps operate on a completely different principle. Instead of generating heat, a heat pump transfers heat from the outside environment (air, groundwater, or soil) into your living space. Learn more about how heat pumps work HERE.
2. They’re expensive and will never pay off.
Heat pumps are a more expensive way to install heating, but they definitely pay off over time. In general, the larger the space being heated, the quicker the return on investment because you achieve proportionally greater savings. For heating smaller spaces, other solutions might be more cost-effective, as the savings on heating costs may take longer to recoup the initial investment.
3. It’s the same as heating with an air conditioner.
False. There are several different types of heat pumps. Some extract heat from groundwater and transfer it to a radiator system or a water-based underfloor heating system. Others extract heat from the ground. There are also heat pumps that “steal” heat from the surrounding air and transfer it to a water heating system.
This misconception arose because some heat pumps do transfer heat to indoor spaces via air, just like traditional air conditioners. Discover why heat pumps are the best pairing with underfloor heating HERE.
4. You need to find groundwater for the system to work.
True, but only partially. There are several types of heat pumps. One type does use special probes to extract heat from groundwater. These are the most complex and require the largest investment. However, there are other solutions.
Sometimes a much more practical option is a heat pump that extracts heat from the surrounding ground. There are also simpler solutions, like air-to-water systems, which can be applied almost anywhere. This system extracts heat from the surrounding air. Learn more about the types of heat pumps HERE.
5. It can’t heat as well as a traditional boiler.
One common misconception is that heating with a heat pump is the same as heating with an air conditioner. People worry that despite the high investment, they won’t stay warm, especially when temperatures drop well below freezing.
This can only happen if the installation is not done properly. Before installing a heat pump, it’s essential to evaluate the building’s characteristics, especially its thermal insulation. Based on that assessment, the required amount of heating energy is determined, and the appropriate type of heat pump is selected.