What is a boiler heat pump?

Heat pumps are a heating solution for properties that makes use of naturally occurring heat sources. This technology is slowly being adopted in the UK as a way for homes to be more environmentally friendly. As such, they are becoming more common features on newly built properties. In this blog, we’ll be discussing all there is to know about boiler heat pumps. 

Function of a heat pump 

A heat pump is a tool that uses environmental energy found in the air or bodies of water to generate heat for buildings. They can also provide cooling by removing heat from the interior of a house and distributing it outside.  

Due to how they function, heat pumps are typically used to supply heat to underfloor heating and other supplementary features. They are therefore often present alongside radiators and boilers. As such, if your boiler breaks down you likely won’t be able to rely on a heat pump alone to heat your home and you will need to seek boiler spare parts. 

Heat pumps operate in the following way: 

1. The heat source, whether outside air or water, is collected and transferred to the surface of the heat exchanger. 
2. Heat is transferred to a special refrigerant liquid, which then vaporises as a result. 
3. This gas is pressurised to increase the temperature further. 
4. The hot gases are now ready to be transferred to either the home’s central heating or hot water system. 
5. The cooled and liquid refrigerant returns of the pump so the process can renew.

Types of boiler heat pump 

There are a few types of heat pump which differ based on how they generate heat. As a result, certain homes are more likely to use one type of heat pump over the others due to its location and the surrounding environment. 

Air-source heat pumps 

The most common type of heat pump, air-source heat pumps extract heat from external air. Many properties above the ground floor such as flats and apartment complexes will use this type of pump. It is often located on the roof or another external wall fitting. 

Geothermal heat pumps 

A subterranean heat pump designed to extract heat from the ground. These systems are usually unnoticeable once they have been fully installed, save for any surface piping. 

Water-source heat pumps 

A heat pump embedded in a water source from which it extracts the heat. Water heat pumps are often more reliable than other types as the temperature of it fluctuates less. 

Boiler replacement parts  

Even if your home has a heat pump, it’s still advisable to have a working boiler to ensure efficient heating. In fact, many modern homes will have a hybrid system that utilises a heat pump and a boiler working in tandem. However, this can only be effective when both systems are performing their intended function. National Boiler Spares has a range of over 20,000 repair products, including boiler spare parts. Contact us today to arrange next delivery.