en.Wedoany.com Reported - Scientific evidence shows that heat pumps outperform gas boilers in energy efficiency. A latest study jointly conducted by Bellway and the University of Salford in the UK reveals that in new-build homes, air-source heat pumps can operate more than four times as efficiently as traditional gas boilers, demonstrating their potential to reduce emissions and support the net-zero transition.
The experiment was carried out at the University of Salford's Energy House 2.0 climate laboratory, where Bellway constructed a full-size three-bedroom house meeting the proposed Future Homes Standard. Researchers tested the performance of this low-carbon heating system under various weather conditions. Results showed that at a typical winter temperature of 5°C, the air-source heat pump, combined with underfloor heating on the ground floor and radiators upstairs, produced 4.71 units of heat for every unit of energy consumed. In contrast, traditional gas boilers have an efficiency of around 90%, yielding at most 0.9 units of heat per unit of energy. The study also noted that under efficient operation, the system's daily heating cost could be as low as £1.19. Even in colder conditions at -5°C, the system still generated 2.98 units of heat per unit of energy consumed.
Researchers found that the most sustainable and efficient approach is to run the heat pump continuously at low temperatures, with increased output during mornings, evenings, or periods of extreme cold. This differs significantly from the on-demand heating model typically used by traditional gas boilers. Jamie Bursnell, Head of Technical and Innovation at Bellway, noted that the study demonstrates that new-build homes can provide low-carbon heating with low running costs without incurring expensive retrofitting expenses, which could run into tens of thousands of pounds. He added that as the grid moves toward net zero, new homes built to the Future Homes Standard will play a key role in reducing the UK's carbon footprint. Professor Will Swan, Director of Energy House Labs at the University of Salford, said the collaboration highlights the importance of following the right approach and the tangible benefits it brings in terms of efficiency and user value.
With the Future Homes Standard set to take effect in 2027, this study provides valuable insights into how future low-carbon heating can help reduce household emissions and lower energy consumption.
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