With the UK currently shifting its attention towards eco-friendly energy solutions, the emphasis on heat pumps in the government’s reports has risen dramatically in recent years.
With a target of 3 million households being powered by heat pumps by 2030 – a 12-fold increase compared to the previous five years – heat pumps are being pushed on the public with the offer of grants to help with the switch from gas boilers.
But why is there such a big focus on heat pumps specifically, and why are copper pipes so important for maximising their benefits?
Heat pumps and the switch to clean, affordable energy
The UK government is keen to reach net-neutrality, and to achieve this ambition, heat pump grants have been increased dramatically to encourage more homes to make the switch from gas.
But one of the shortcomings of their campaign has been the lack of education and awareness of heat pumps, and why people should invest their time and money in making the switch.
Heat pumps essentially use the heat from the surrounding air, ground, or water, and repurpose it to provide heat for homes. Numbers-wise, heat pumps are around 300% efficient, compared to an average of 85% efficiency for standard boilers.
The copper pipe: why use it?
In general, copper pipes provide numerous benefits: durability, excellent thermal conduction, and biostatic properties – put simply, they are unsupportive of bacterial growth.
Heat pumps typically possess a far longer lifespan than traditional gas boilers, and copper pipes are equally tenacious, able to withstand decades of use and fluctuating temperatures – more than their plastic counterparts, typically.
Heat pumps are also easily implemented into existing piping systems, many of which will be made of copper, allowing for a seamless fitting process. You can find copper pipe fittings online, such as at Watkins and Powis.
Most importantly, copper piping is especially helpful in maintaining the efficient transfer of heat, especially for water. Combine this with its infinitely recyclable nature, and it’s clear to see why the copper pipe is a perfect fit for the eco-friendly heat pumps.
