Heat pumps & efficiency
Heat pump systems
Improve heat pump efficiency and running costs
Proper Use Saves Money
•Use your heat pump efficiently to avoid high energy bills and maintain comfort. Proper operation helps maximise performance while keeping energy costs down. If needed, seek professional support to ensure optimal use and efficiency.
Could the way you are using your heat pump be increasing electricity use?
•Heat pumps work differently from traditional heating systems and are designed to run steadily to provide consistent heat and hot water over longer periods. Turning them on and off frequently, changing settings too often, using boost functions more than needed, or incorrect thermostat settings can reduce efficiency and increase electricity use.
Are your controls and hot water settings correct?
•Room thermostats and radiator valves should be used to adjust comfort levels around your home. Check that your hot water settings and schedule are correct and use the boost function only when needed.
Is the outdoor unit clear, and could heat be escaping from your home?
•Your heat pump needs good airflow to work properly. If the outdoor unit is blocked, or if your home has drafts, poor insulation or radiators that are not performing effectively, the system may need to work harder.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
•Avoid Turning Off Heat Pump - Turning off the heat pump disrupts its low-power continuous operation and reduces efficiency.
•Do Not Manually Adjust Controller - Manual adjustments interfere with automated functions and weather compensation features.
•Understand Lukewarm Radiator Temps - Lukewarm radiator temperatures are normal and designed for consistent low-temperature heating.
•Proper Thermostat and Valve Use - Incorrect thermostat and radiator valve use causes uneven heating and higher energy costs.
Heat Pump Best Practices
•Continuous Operation - Heat pumps are designed to run constantly for maximum efficiency and comfort. Avoid turning them on and off frequently.
•Stable Settings - Do not change heat pump settings often. The installer optimizes these settings for your home's needs.
•Room-by-Room Adjustment - Adjust comfort using thermostats and radiator valves in each room rather than the heat pump itself.
•Energy Efficient Temperatures - Lower temperature radiators are normal with heat pumps and help save energy while maintaining comfort.
Behavioural Insights and User Experience
•Many users struggle with complex heat pump controls and unclear instructions. Clear guidance and proper setup improve ease of use and overall performance. Better awareness of smart features can boost efficiency, comfort, and user satisfaction.
Issues that may cause increased running costs
•Electricity Tariff - May lead to unnecessary extra costs by not choosing the appropriate tariff or meter type.
•Undersized heat pump or radiators - If the radiator in each room is not big enough, that room just won’t get warm.
•Central heating system - Faulty pumps, valves or sludge and dirt in the radiators can all cause problems.
Common Issues & Solutions
•Reducing Energy Bills - Blocked airflow, thermostat misuse, or frequent boost functions can lead to high energy costs in households.
•Solving Cold Room Problems - Cold rooms may be caused by small radiators, drafts, or poor insulation, especially with low temperature systems.
•Managing Hot Water Issues - Use the system's boost function sparingly, as it heats water safely only when necessary to avoid problems.
Was this content helpful?
Did this answer your question?
Thank you for your feedback
Related content
Heat pumps & efficiency
Heat pump systems
Heat pumps & efficiency
Heat pump systems