"Problems with Heat Pumps: What You Need to Know Before Installing One in Your Home"

2023-04-27 09:26:55

Enedis Heat pumps, good for the ecology?

Enedis

Some owners have noticed an increase in their power consumption

CONSO – They are cold despite their heat pump. This Thursday, April 27, the monthly 60 million consumers published a study that exposes installation and operating problems when installing heat pumps.

Presented as a clean and renewable energy option, the heat pump is concerned by the aid for the energy renovation of MaPrimeRénov’ housing.

More 60 million consumers details in a ten-page dossier the “testimonials from dissatisfied consumers” who fail to collect the aid announced and “find themselves paying much more for their installation than expected”, relate l’AFP. To carry out this dossier, the media relied on a study of owners wishing to equip themselves with a new heating system.

Six heat pump installers were contacted, “but the proposals they (the owners, editor’s note) have received are not satisfactory. Only one installer did a serious job”underlines the article that opens the file.

“Some find that their electricity consumption is increasing and that the announced savings are not there”, while heat pumps are recognized for their low energy consumption. “Others are cold during their first or second winter with their heat pump”reports the media.

Heat pumps costing between 5,000 and 8,000 euros

To avoid these malfunctions, 60 million consumers reminds that “the selected installers must have the Recognized Guarantor of the Environment (RGE) designation for the installation of a heat pump”otherwise the financial aid offered by the State is not accessible.

Additionally, the magazine recommends not to sign an estimate before an on-site visit. If a maintenance contract is offered, it is ” good sign “ et “The professional must go through all the rooms, check their insulation” and not make “expedited visits”.

A heat pump costs on average between 5,000 and 8,000 euros. A growing market but subject to increasing scams. Dozens of cases have been reported to the Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Prevention (DGCCRF).

Since January 1, 2022, regulations prohibit gas-only heating solutions in new homes. The ban will be imposed on collective housing in 2025, when only hybrid solutions will be authorized, integrating an electric heat pump or a thermodynamic water heater.

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