Ireland’s heat pump journey is well underway. Earlier this year, SEAI revealed that there has been a massive increase in the number of home energy upgrades taking place, with a total of 781 heat pumps installed in Irish homes.
There are many good reasons why Irish homeowners are investing in heat pumps. They are one of the most energy-efficient ways of heating (or cooling) a house, using far less electricity and costing less to run than traditional heating systems like oil or gas boilers.
Heat pumps provide reliable, consistent heat and hot water all year round – no turning the boiler on and off or the immersion - while installing one will improve the energy rating, and therefore the value, of your home.
Finally and most importantly, because heat pumps run on mostly renewable energy (i.e. air), they are environmentally friendly – less carbon emissions, more sustainable living.
Start with your local installer
If you are thinking about investing in a heat pump, you’ll likely have discovered these benefits already. But did you know that most heat pump journeys begin with a visit to your local installer/contractor? You’ll find our list of Daikin-approved installers here.
Think of your local installer as a Sherpa – they are there to explain and help you choose the right heat pump for your home; guide you through the process from first visit to handover; some can shoulder the burden of any grant applications and administration; and they’ll be there in case you need help afterwards.
We asked three of our partner heat pump installers for their top tips focussing on the three main stages of the customer journey:
- Initial assessment
- Preparing for install
- Post-installation
Over to the experts!
NRG Panel
Starting out
“Choose an installer who can manage your retrofit journey from start to finish, including the BER and technical assessments to get the ball rolling. Choose an installer who can apply for the SEAI grant on your behalf and always ask your installer for a timeline at the outset so you know exactly what’s involved.”
Preparing for installation
“An engineer will conduct a site survey before installation and they will let you know about any preparations you need to make. These include cleaning key areas, keeping a parking space free in front of your property, and letting neighbours know when to expect some noise. Planning is key, so do it well in advance – we typically work with a 2-week notice period.”
Once heat pump has been installed
“Always ask your installer for a demo of the heat pump. Our customers get a full run-through plus a handover pack that includes instructions on how to set up the Daikin Onecta App for remote heating control. We also make sure you register your heat pump serial number with the Daikin Stand By Me App to activate your warranty.”
RTS Heating & Cooling Services
Based in: Dungarvan, Co. Waterford
Covering: Dublin to Cork and all points in between
Starting out
“You’ll need the following information to hand when you first contact an installer: Eircode, floor area, new build or existing building, current BER, contact details. You’ll then need to contact a technical assessor to assess your eligibility for a grant, this applies to existing homes only. Bear in mind that our team works to a 2-3 week turnaround for full renovation upgrades including heat pumps.”
Preparing for installation
“Plan ahead for a seamless, successful renovation! For example, make sure pets are kept safely away from work areas, clear out hot presses if that’s where the heat pump is going, have a plan if you have small kids, let your neighbours know what’s going on. With us, you’ll have a project manager to guide you through every stage.”
Once heat pump has been installed
“Ask questions! Your installer can help you to download the Onecta App and also register your heat pump on the Stand By Me App. Once you’re up and running, there’s very little you have to do – the heat pump will work away on its own – but if you have any questions, your installer is your first port of call.”
Energywise Ireland
Starting out
“This critical first step sets the foundation for the entire project. Typically, the customer will fill in an inquiry form and this information allows us to develop a roadmap that outlines the most suitable type of heat pump, potential costs, and timeline. This is the time for the homeowner to ask questions, understand the process and make informed decisions about their installation. Our goal is to set the project up for success.”
Preparing for installation
“We appoint a project coordinator who agrees the install dates and location of all equipment. We encourage customers to clear the hot press, utility room, areas around radiators (if they are being changed). It may also be necessary to clear outside for the outdoor unit. It may take 3-4 days for the install to be completed so the more preparation, the smoother it will be.”
Once heat pump has been installed
“Once your heat pump has been installed, we’ll send you the commissioning certificate and unique code; we also provide a step-by-step guide on how to register the unit with the Stand By Me App so you can benefit from our free extended warranty. You’ll also get annual maintenance reminders so you’ll never miss a service – thus ensuring your warranty remains valid for the full 7 years. Any problems? We’re always here!”
Start your heat pump journey
Thinking about installing a heat pump and availing of the many benefits of this renewable energy technology? Find out who your local supplier/installer is today and ask them about Daikin heating and cooling solutions. They’re here to help!