If you’re like most Irish homeowners, you’ve probably heard about heat pumps, but you might still be wondering what they actually do, how much they cost to run, and whether they’re worth the investment.
At HeatGen, we believe that smart heating should be energy-efficient, affordable, and better for the environment. That’s exactly what a heat pump offers.
Whether you’re planning a retrofit or building a new home, this guide will help you understand why more people in Ireland are choosing heat pumps, and why now is the perfect time to make the switch.
1. Incredible Energy Efficiency
Let’s start with the basics: heat pumps don’t generate heat the same way gas or oil boilers do. Instead, they extract heat from the air outside your home, even in winter, and transfer it indoors.
This process uses a small amount of electricity to move a large amount of heat, which is what makes them so efficient.
How efficient are we talking?
Heat pumps can be up to 400% efficient. That means:
- For every 1 kilowatt of electricity used, they can produce up to 4 kilowatts of heat.
- By comparison, most gas or oil boilers are only 80–90% efficient.
In other words, heat pumps give you more heat for less energy, which leads directly to lower running costs.
2. Lower Heating Costs Over Time
Let’s look at the long-term numbers:
Heat Pump
- Average running cost per year: approx. €800
- 10-year total: €8,000
Gas or Oil Boiler
- Annual cost: €1,200 – €2,500 (depending on fuel prices and usage)
- 10-year total: €12,000 – €25,000
That’s a potential saving of up to €17,000 over 10 years, before grants or other upgrades are factored in.
With energy costs continuing to rise and fossil fuels becoming less stable, switching to a heat pump is a financially smart decision for any homeowner.
3. Healthier, More Comfortable Living
Heat pumps don’t just save money, they also create a healthier indoor environment.
Here’s how:
- No Combustion = No Indoor Pollution
Unlike gas or oil boilers, heat pumps don’t burn fuel. That means they don’t produce harmful gases like carbon monoxide or nitrogen dioxide, which can be dangerous in enclosed spaces. - Cleaner Air, Fewer Allergens
Heat pumps help regulate humidity and often include filtration systems. This helps reduce the presence of mould, dust mites, and airborne allergens, ideal for families with young children, elderly relatives, or anyone with respiratory sensitivities. - Consistent, Gentle Heat
Heat pumps provide a steady and even level of warmth throughout the home. No more hot-and-cold rooms, and no noisy radiators or sudden blasts of heat, just clean, comfortable air.
4. Lower Carbon Footprint
Heating accounts for a large portion of a household’s carbon emissions, especially when powered by fossil fuels.
Heat pumps, on the other hand, use electricity, and as Ireland’s national grid becomes greener, so do the homes that rely on it.
By installing a heat pump, you’re:
- Drastically reducing your greenhouse gas emissions
- Supporting Ireland’s transition to renewable energy
- Contributing to a more sustainable future
This isn’t just good for the planet, it’s also good for your conscience.
5. Quiet, Clean, and Low Maintenance
Many people are surprised by how quiet a heat pump is. Modern systems run at lower noise levels than traditional boilers, especially when installed by experienced professionals.
And when it comes to upkeep?
- Heat pumps require less frequent servicing
- There’s no risk of leaks or soot build-up
- Lifespan is typically 15–20 years with regular maintenance
It’s a smart, long-term investment in your home and your peace of mind.
6. The Future of Home Heating in Ireland
The Irish government has made it clear: the future of heating is renewable.
As part of the Climate Action Plan, the government has already:
- Banned fossil fuel boilers in all new builds since 2022
- Committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050
- Launched financial incentives to help homeowners transition
Right now, you can receive a grant of up to €6,500 through the SEAI to cover the cost of installing a heat pump.
The sooner you act, the more you save, and the better prepared you’ll be for future regulations and energy prices.
What HeatGen Can Do for You
We understand that making changes to your home heating system is a big decision. That’s why we’ve made the process as simple and stress-free as possible.
✅ Free Heat Pump Consultation
- A full technical home survey
- Detailed heat loss calculations
- Review of your BER rating and grant eligibility
- A clear, customised quote, no surprises
✅ No-Obligation, Friendly Advice
We’ll walk you through your options and explain everything in plain English, no jargon, no pressure.
Whether your home is heat pump-ready or requires improvements, we’ll guide you step-by-step to ensure you get the most out of your upgrade.
Interested in Learning More?
Click the link below to enter your details, and a member of our team will contact you to schedule your free assessment:
Heat Pumps Are the Future of Heating
Efficient. Clean. Affordable. Better for your family – and better for the planet.
Let’s heat your home the smart way.
The HeatGen way.
