HYBRID HEATING SYSTEMS

To reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, we will need to change the way we heat our homes and buildings. In the UK, we will need to phase out oil and gas heating systems like boilers to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels, replacing them with renewable, low carbon technologies. 

Across the nation, we have an extensive gas network which, according to the National Grid, is connected to 8/10 homes so, how do we achieve low carbon heating in our homes?

It is suggested that hybrid heating systems may not necessarily be ambitious enough for the Governments net-zero targets but for consumers it may well be the best technology to help homeowners transition to a greener way of heating.

What is a hybrid heating system?

Also known as a dual fuel system, a hybrid heating system monitors the temperature 

outside and automatically chooses the most efficient option. For example, when the 

temperature outside is 2°C or higher the heat pump will heat your home and hot water 

using renewable energy and your boiler doesn’t need to run. When the temperature drops,

the system will automatically switch to your boiler.

Are they easy to install?

Generally speaking, hybrid heating systems include air source heat pumps (ASHPs) as they’re easier to install, less disruptive to your garden and relatively cheaper than ground source heat pumps (GSHPs).

Will I save money?

If you are combining a boiler with an air source heat pump, you can expect to pay between £5,000-£10,000 including installation and between £13,000-£20,000 for a ground source heat pump. Source: hiesscheme

A hybrid heating system can reduce your heating bills by 13% and your heating system will certainly last longer as there will be less reliance on your standard boiler. On average, a standard boiler could last up to 10 years depending on the boiler brand and how well it has been maintained. With a hybrid heating system, you are unlikely to need a new one for at least 10-15 years. Something to bear in mind is that during the process, heat pumps use a small amount of electricity to run, making them relatively more efficient to operate than other heating systems but still not 100% carbon neutral.