Choosing The Right Heat Pump Solution: High Temperature vs. Low Temperature
The largest energy use for your home is heating and hot water. On average, space heating alone can represent about 42% of a household's energy consumption, while water heating can account for around 18%
In a typical office building, space heating alone can represent about 32% of the total energy consumption.
As homeowners and small businesses look for sustainable and energy-efficient heating solutions, heat pumps have emerged as a popular choice. However, not all heat pumps are created equal. One of the key distinctions is whether a system is high temperature or low temperature. Understanding the difference is crucial when deciding which option is best for your home or office, particularly in terms of cost, efficiency, and suitability.
In this article we will break down the key differences between high and low temperature domestic and light commercial scale heat pumps, helping you make a more informed decision.
But, as prices vary from project to project, we recommend that you get an expert assessment of your premises to help you choose the most cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for your specific situation.
What’s the Difference?
High Temperature Heat Pumps
Designed to deliver hot water at 60°C to 80°C.
Typically used to replace traditional gas, oil, or boiler systems without requiring changes to existing radiators or pipework.
Best suited for older homes where modifying the heating system is difficult or costly.
Low Temperature Heat Pumps
Operate at water temperatures between 30°C to 55°C.
Optimized for underfloor heating or modern, larger radiators designed for lower-temperature operation.
Most efficient in well-insulated homes or new builds.
Cost Comparison
Upfront Installation Costs
High temperature heat pumps tend to cost more upfront because the technology needed to produce higher water temperatures is more complex.
Low temperature heat pumps may require additional investment in upgraded radiators or underfloor heating, particularly in older homes.
Running Costs
High temperature systems generally have higher running costs due to their lower efficiency (they consume more electricity to maintain higher water temperatures).
Low temperature systems are significantly cheaper to run because they operate more efficiently, especially in a well-insulated home.
Efficiency Comparison
Coefficient of Performance (COP)
The efficiency of heat pumps is typically measured by their Coefficient of Performance (COP) — the ratio of heat output to electrical input.
The lower the heat pump output water temperature, the more efficiently the heat pump can operate.
Why Efficiency Matters
Higher efficiency means:
Lower electricity consumption.
Reduced carbon footprint.
Lower long-term operating costs.
Which One is Right for You?
Both high and low temperature heat pumps can be excellent choices depending on your home’s structure, existing heating system, and your budget.
High Temperature Heat Pumps offer flexibility for older homes but are less efficient and cost more to run.
Low Temperature Heat Pumps provide greater efficiency and long-term savings, but may require additional home upgrades to achieve optimal performance.
When to Choose a High Temperature Heat Pump:
You want to retain your existing radiators.
You have limited insulation and can’t make upgrades.
You need a quick replacement for a traditional boiler.
When to Choose a Low Temperature Heat Pump:
You can upgrade your radiators or install underfloor heating.
Your home is well-insulated or you plan to improve it.
You want maximum efficiency and lower running costs.
Get an Expert Assessment
Before deciding, it’s strongly recommended to have a professional energy assessment to understand your business or home heating needs and the potential for insulation improvements. This will help you choose the most cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for your specific situation.