What you need to know before installing a water source heat pump in you older property
Water source heat pumps are an excellent investment. They are efficient, cost-effective, sustainable and work well to heat any property size as the system is scaled to fit each installation. If you’re looking to invest in heat pump technology but aren’t sure where to start, get in touch and talk to our heat pump experts today.
There are several things to consider when deciding if a water source heat pump is suitable for your property. Understanding your current usage, costs and possible water sources is important, as is the space of your property and the insulation quality. While this does sound like a lot to consider, we have a team of experts ready to help you calculate the best options. To learn more about water source heat pumps, you can read through our full guide here: What is a water source heat pump?
Some things to consider when looking at water source heat pumps are:
Radiators or underfloor heating with your heat pump?
It may be a good idea to install underfloor heating in your home with your heat pump as this will ensure you get the best possible performance out of your renewable energy system, and reduce the potential need for extra or larger radiators to be installed.
Open or closed-loop system?
For an open loop water source heat pump, you must keep in mind that the heat exchangers will need protection from any debris, and they will require cleaning and inspecting regularly to assure the system continues to run to the best of its ability. However, this is something a homeowner can carry out to keep your water source heat pump running smoothly.
Is a water source heat pump the best option for you?
There are three types of heat pumps, water source, air source and ground source. While looking at water source heat pumps, you may wish to consider the alternative residential heat pump solutions if they could be a better fit for your needs.
If you still have questions please get in touch and speak to one of our heat pump experts.
How to get a water source heat pump installed
Our expert team will do a full, detailed assessment of your home and source of water to make sure your heating and hot water needs will be met and you will be more than satisfied with your new renewable energy solution. They will be looking to ensure you have enough space to have underground pipes laid between the source of water and your home or business, and the space inside for the heat pump and a hot water cylinder.
We’ll take the time to talk to you about our findings and support you in making your decision with expert advice on your individual property and circumstances. We understand that a water source heat pump is an investment, and you might have a lot of questions.
Our team will be available to support you throughout the installation process and afterwards. If you’re unsure or want to read more about water source heat pumps, you can give us a call or visit our case studies to see other recent installations.
DO I NEED PLANNING PERMISSION?
Usually no, but it’s worth checking the guidance for your water type and property. You can find a guide here on the Gov.uk website.
It can also depend on how much water your system is likely to require per day – which we can help you with.
You can contact our heat pump experts, who will be happy to answer any questions you have in this area.
IS A WATER SOURCE HEAT PUMP THE MOST EFFICIENT HEAT PUMP?
Water source heat pumps are very efficient, especially compared with traditional gas or oil heating systems.
Between water, ground and air source heat pumps, water source are the top of the list in terms of efficiency, with operating efficiencies up to 450%.
You can read more about heat pumps in our guide to eco-friendly heating systems, or our residential heat pump overview.
HOW DOES A WATER SOURCE HEAT PUMP WORK?
Water source heat pumps work by using heat from the water they’re installed in to convert to high pressure heat inside the system. This hot, high pressured liquid is then used to heat the liquid in your heating system.
Similar to a gas boiler on the inside, but with a very different method of heating the system before you’re heating is used.
You can read more about how water source heat pumps work, especially in older properties, with our guide, Water source heat pumps for older properties.
Considering Heat Pumps?
If you think water source heat pumps are the right option for you, or your just not sure whether they would work in your home, get in touch with our heat pump experts and have a chat.
Heat pumps reduce carbon emissions whilst providing permanent heat that can be used for radiators, underfloor heating or warm air heating systems and hot water. They are ideal for well insulated properties, regardless of the age of your home and our engineers will design a solution specifically to maximise the efficiencies for your particular property. Through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you could also be entitled to a grant of up to £7,500 to cover part of the costs of replacing your existing fossil fuel heating system with a heat pump.
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Heat Pumps Key Information
- Investment returned in around 12 years
- Permanent heat and hot water
- Bespoke solution designed for your home
- Heat pumps available with thermal outputs from 4kw – 87kw
- Air source, water source and ground source options
- Lifespan of 25 – 30 years
- We only use natural refrigerants which are non-toxic with zero ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential) and very low GWP (Global Warming Potential).
- Typical commercial boilers operate at 80-85% efficiencies compared to 320% for air source, 400% for ground source and 450% for water source heat pumps
- Can be integrated with residential solar PV to provide maximum efficiency
Questions? Get in touch today and talk to one of our heat pump experts!




We Are Here for You
At Pure Renewables, our dedication revolves around delivering state-of-the-art renewable energy systems to our customers. We harness the most recent innovations in heat pump technology to help empower you in producing hot water without a gas burning boiler, paving the way for numerous benefits and saving you money on your energy bills!
Be assured that our methodology revolves around a no-obligation quote policy, granting you the freedom from any undue pressure. Furthermore, our friendly team of experts based at our office in Hull are readily available to provide you with invaluable advice and answer any questions you may have.
Case Studies
Check out some of our recent renewable energy solutions case studies.