Why you should consider running your heat pump with solar panels
Pairing a heat pump with solar panels will reduce your energy bills and boost your green credentials. Our brief guide answers your questions.
There’s no doubt that heat pumps are highly efficient and eco-friendly solutions. However, you can take a step towards being even more sustainable by combining air source heat pumps and solar panels. This way, you can produce your own energy for your heating and cooling needs. In this quick guide, we answer some of your questions…
Do solar panels work well with heat pumps?
The combination of solar panels and air source heat pumps is an unbeatable duo for achieving a highly efficient and sustainable system.
By harnessing the sun's energy, solar panels can significantly reduce the operational costs of air source heat pumps, making them an almost entirely self-sufficient option.
This is particularly advantageous as heat pumps require far less energy than standard boilers, putting less strain on the solar panels. With the addition of solar batteries, your heat pump can function even during nighttime hours, making it a reliable and confident choice for heating and cooling needs.
Why is it a good idea to combine two technologies?
Solar power is a clean and sustainable energy source that can be used in combination with a heat pump heating system to ensure your home is heated and supplied with hot water in an eco-friendly manner.
Heat pumps are a great way to save energy, but they do still require electricity to operate. This reliance on the energy grid means that, on their own, they aren’t a completely renewable energy source. However, this issue can be mitigated by using a solar-powered heat pump. By combining the power of solar panels and heat pumps, it is possible to create a highly efficient and energy-independent system for heating and cooling.
This approach is not only more affordable but also more sustainable in the long run. So, by opting for this solution, we can contribute to the preservation of our environment and simultaneously save money on our energy bills.
What size solar panel system will I need?
The number of solar panels required to power both a home and a heat pump varies depending on the size of the house and the amount of power the heat pump consumes.
It’s important to note that a heat pump's size does not refer to its physical dimensions but rather its heat output capacity measured in kW. For an average home with 2 to 3 bedrooms, a 5kW heat pump and 4kW solar panels are sufficient. A 5kW heat pump can efficiently heat up a space of 35m² to 45m², making it a great option for smaller homes. However, if you have a larger living space, a 10kW or higher system may be necessary to meet your energy needs.
Make sure you employ an expert to determine the size of your home and your energy needs before selecting a heat pump and solar panel system to ensure efficient and cost-effective energy consumption.
Would it be a suitable solution for my home?
The number of solar panels you can install on your roof depends on your budget and the amount of roof space available. There are several suitable roofing materials to consider. Asphalt or composite roofing is a good option for solar panel installation due to its durability. Metal standing seam roofs are also a great choice and can help save costs due to their easy installation.
To maximize sunlight exposure, the roof should face south and have a tilt of 30-50 degrees. Flat roofs can work too, but additional brackets will be needed to angle the solar panels, which may increase costs.
Daikin’s heat pumps are suitable for a wide range of homes, and as they are so highly efficient, you could find that your solar panels will provide all the power they need. Your installer will help you identify the best model for your home, ensuring year-round comfort and reliability.
How much could I save?
It’s entirely possible that solar panels would be able to produce all the electricity you need to run your heat pump.
While getting both solar panels and air source heat pumps will require an upfront expense, the advantages can be great. And don’t forget that the government is currently offering funding of £7,500 towards the purchase and installation of a heat pump through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
Greenmatch estimates that the installation of solar panels and heat pumps combined can save between £1,250 to £2,100 annually.
Begin your heat pump journey
Find out more about our heat pumps, the available funding, and the steps you need to take next:
