There is a common misconception that heat pumps, particularly air-sourced heat pumps, are unable to warm your home in winter. However, looking at the heat pump adoption across Europe tells a different story. The highest installation rates of heat pumps are found in countries with colder climates, particularly in the Nordic countries, where heat pumps have been used for decades as a cost-effective and efficient way to heat homes.

It is true that heat pumps may need to work harder in extremely low temperatures, but they do not stop working. According to a study by the Regulatory Assistance Project (RAP), heat pumps operating in temperatures between 10°C and 5°C are on average more than twice as efficient as gas boilers. Even in extreme cold climates (below -10°C), most heat pumps remain more efficient than gas boilers. 

As a reminder, heat pumps are 300%-400% more efficient than gas boilers. In other words, they can deliver three to four times the amount of heat they consume. In contrast, gas boilers typically operate at around 90% efficiency, meaning they convert only 90% of the gas they consume into heat for your home.

This makes heat pumps the most efficient heating and cooling solution in all climates - also when the winter is freezing cold. 

Of course, not all heat pumps are the same. Choosing the appropriate type and size of a heat pump for your home and needs is crucial. Not all houses require extensive renovations before installing a heat pump, but proper planning and installation are key to maximising efficiency and comfort. 

To support consumers in this transition, the CLEAR-HP project aims to simplify consumers’ access to heat pumps by guiding them throughout the whole purchasing journey.  At its core, the project runs collective purchase campaigns based on ‘purchase and install’ packages, ensuring a smooth adoption of sustainable heating systems.