Reducing energy costs is a concern for many households. Indeed, whether in terms of insulation or domestic heating methods, it is possible to make very significant budget savings with the right equipment. Here are the best heating solutions for anyone who wants to change their old boiler or replace their electric heating system.
The heat pump: the most economical solution?
We often put the condensing boiler and the heat pump in competition with each other. The former is more efficient and offers better results than a traditional boiler. On the other hand, it is much more expensive and difficult to install than a heat pump, whether geothermal or aero-thermal. Moreover, the pump offers more advantages, including:
- less impact on the environment
- the possibility to freshen up your home in the summer
- a high coefficient of production (COP)
If you want a device that is easy to install and environmentally friendly; then the pump is the one to bet on.
Geothermal or aero-thermal
If these two modes of consumption require a heat pump, their source of energy is different. Geothermal energy uses the heat present in the earth; aero-thermal energy uses the heat present in the air. There are two equivalent methods to be preferred depending on your situation and that of your property. The installation of a geothermal heat pump offers the best performance results. Its coefficient of performance is between three and five when that of the aero-thermal system is between two and three. On the other hand, it is much more expensive to install, despite the many grants available for the work. Finally, geothermal energy is subject to the geology of the property concerned. If the soil is too hard or too clayey, it will be more judicious to opt for the aero-thermal heating solution. It is a compromise to be made between efficiency, economy and housing conditions.
Solar panels: another way to produce energy
Solar panels can also be an interesting solution for those who wish to reduce their heating costs. But what is to choose between thermal solar panels and photovoltaic panels? In the first case, the solar energy is converted into heat directly and sent to a storage tank. In terms of consumption, priority is given to this source of energy and when it is insufficient; your traditional method of heat production takes over. It is therefore above all an auxiliary heating solution, ideal if you have already installed a heat pump. Photovoltaic panels, on the other hand, work in a different way. Composed of silicon (a conductive material), their cells create electricity when illuminated. Today, a small photovoltaic park of 25 m2 can provide enough electricity for a family of four throughout the year. There are two ways of thinking about energy consumption, each of which must be part of a coherent and eco-responsible energy project. Insulation, heat pumps, solar panels... A successful energy transition must take into account all aspects of consumption.
