Heat pumps: efficient heating from ambient heat
A heat pump runs on electricity and takes most of its heat for free from the air or the ground. It can also cool your home in summer. We help you choose between an air-to-water, ground source and hybrid heat pump.
- Air-to-water and ground source
- Hybrid with your existing boiler
- Installation and repair
- Outside air: even in cold weather it still holds usable heat.
- Outdoor unit: a fan and compressor capture that heat and raise it to a higher temperature.
- Indoor unit with cylinder: passes the heat to the heating water and the hot tap water.
- Underfloor heating: runs on lukewarm water, which makes it the best match for a heat pump.
- Radiators also work if they are large enough for a lower water temperature.
How does a heat pump work?
A heat pump works like a fridge in reverse. A refrigerant absorbs heat from the outside air, the ground or groundwater, a compressor raises it to a higher temperature and a heat exchanger passes it to your heating and tap water.
For every kilowatt-hour of electricity, a heat pump delivers several kilowatt-hours of heat. The lower the heating water temperature, the more efficient it is. That is why good insulation and underfloor heating or generous radiators matter so much.
Which types are there?
Air-to-water
Takes heat from the outside air with an outdoor unit. No drilling needed, so the most common choice for new builds and renovations alike. Mind where the outdoor unit goes (noise, distance to neighbours).
Ground source (geothermal)
Takes heat from the ground through a borehole or collectors in the garden. The ground stays at a fairly constant temperature all year, so efficiency is high and stable. Needs a larger investment and more preparation.
Hybrid
A heat pump paired with a gas or oil boiler. The heat pump does most of the work, the boiler helps on cold days. Performs best together with an existing central heating system.
Air-to-air
Heats and cools the air in a room directly, like an air conditioner. Handy for a single room or as a supplement, less so as the main heating for a whole home.
Does a heat pump suit my home?
A heat pump is the most environmentally friendly solution for new builds and renovations, but it has to be sized correctly. We look at the heat loss of your home, how you heat (underfloor or radiators), your hot water needs and where the units can go.
- Good insulation and airtightness
- Underfloor heating, or radiators large enough for a low water temperature
- Space for the outdoor unit and the indoor unit with cylinder
- Solar panels are a logical addition: you use your own electricity
How we go about it
- 1
Visit and advice
We look at your home, the existing installation and your wishes.
- 2
Calculation and quote
You receive a detailed quote with the right capacity and options.
- 3
Installation
We install and connect everything and set up the controls properly.
- 4
Follow-up
After installation we remain available for check-ups and repairs.
Frequently asked questions
Does a heat pump work when it freezes?
Yes. Even in freezing weather the outside air contains heat. Efficiency does drop as it gets colder, which is why correct sizing matters. With a ground source heat pump this plays a much smaller role.
Can I keep my radiators?
Sometimes. If the radiators are large enough to heat the home with cooler water, or if a few are replaced. Otherwise a hybrid heat pump is a good intermediate step.
Can a heat pump also cool?
Many heat pumps can cool in summer, for example through the underfloor heating. That is gentle cooling, not full air conditioning. If you really want to cool, see our air conditioning page.
Are there grants for a heat pump?
In Flanders, a heat pump may qualify for Mijn VerbouwPremie. Conditions and amounts change regularly, so always check the official website. More on our grants page.
Request a free quote
Dirk and Pieter-Jan will gladly send you a detailed quote. Free and without obligation.
