Questions? FAQ’s
Are guarantees available for heat pump installations?
Yes, most manufacturers and fitters offer guarantees. A standard guarantee is generally two to five years for parts and labour. Certain manufacturers offer extended guarantees of up to 10 years.
Can external insulation be installed on an existing house (i.e. not a new build)?
Yes. It is commonly used to improve the energy efficiency of existing buildings without reducing the interior square footage. However, it is important to ensure that you get the right advice, especially when it comes to applying for planning permission, choosing the right materials, thickness of the insulation, etc.
Does external insulation reduce noise pollution?
As well as improving the energy efficiency of buildings, external insulation improves soundproofing by creating an additional barrier between the inside and the outside. However, the effectiveness of sound insulation will depend on a number of factors, including the type of material used, the thickness of the insulation, and the quality of the installation.
Does external insulation require any special maintenance?
Although external insulation generally requires minimal maintenance, regular attention and preventive care can significantly extend its lifespan and help preserve its thermal and acoustic performance. It is important to schedule regular inspections, cleaning, anti-foaming treatments and seal maintenance.
How are heat pump systems maintained?
Maintenance is generally straightforward and consists of an annual inspection by an ECOSPHERE HOME technician to ensure that the system operates at optimal efficiency. The check-up may include cleaning filters, checking coolant levels, and inspecting mechanical components.
How do I know if my home needs better insulation?
Here are some signs that your home might need improved insulation:
– High energy bills: Above-average heating and cooling costs may indicate that your home is losing heat in winter and absorbing it in summer.
- Different temperatures: Significant variations in temperature in different rooms or areas of your home may indicate poor insulation.
- Draughts: Feeling cold draughts near windows, doors or outside walls, even when everything is closed, is a clear sign of air leaks due to poor insulation.
- Cold walls, floors and ceilings: Indoor surfaces that are cold to the touch in winter or hot in summer indicate poor insulation.
- Condensation and mould: Condensation on windows or walls can be caused by temperature differences triggered by poor insulation. Condensation can also lead to the growth of mould, which can pose a health problem.
- Noise pollution: Poor insulation can allow noise to enter your home easily. If you're hearing a lot of outside noise, improved insulation can help reduce it.
What are the main benefits of installing a heat pump and solar panels?
Installing a heat pump and solar panels provides a number of benefits.
- Lower energy bills: heat pumps capture energy from the air, water and ground to heat or cool your home thus requiring much less energy than traditional systems. When coupled with solar panels, which generate electricity from the sun, this can considerably reduce your energy bills.
- Eco-friendly: these systems use renewable energy and reduce CO2 emissions thus helping to combat climate change.
- Energy self-sufficiency: by generating your own electricity and using a heat pump, you are less dependent on energy suppliers and are not subject to price fluctuations.
- Increases the value of your property: homes equipped with eco-friendly heating and electricity-generation systems often have a higher value.
Can these systems work together to maximise energy efficiency?
Yes, heat pumps and solar panels work together very efficiently. Solar panels generate electricity that can be used to power the heat pump. This allows the generated energy to be utilised directly for heating, cooling, and domestic hot water, thereby maximising the energy efficiency of your system. Not only does this reduce costs, it also reduces your home's carbon footprint.
What are the initial costs of installing a heat pump and solar panels?
Initial costs vary depending on a number of factors, such as the size of your home, the type of heat pump you require, the number of solar panels needed, and the specific characteristics of your installation. On average:
- Heat pump: the cost of a heat pump is between €20,000 and €35,000 (including installation).
- Solar panels: the cost of a standard installation is between €10,000 and €35,000 for an output of 3 kW to 20 kW.
These costs can be reduced thanks to various financial aids, subsidies and tax incentives, depending on where you live.