17 October 2008
While ground source heat pumps may not be the most suitable option for existing properties, they work "very well" with new builds, it has been claimed. According to the author of the Housebuilder's Bible, the technology - which generates three units of heat for every unit of power put in - is best installed when properties are being constructed. For homeowners who want to use microgeneration technology to heat their existing homes, air source heat pumps are a better option, Mark Brinkley told the Grand Designs Live show in Birmingham. "We're seeing very cheap ones coming in from China now and people are using them to heat their hot water," he remarked. He likened the systems to air conditioning units which take heat from the air. Research carried out by the Freedonia Group in February shows that by 2011, heat pumps are expected to account for 47% of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning market in the United States.