Energy use
An element converts electricity directly to heat at roughly a one-to-one ratio. A heat pump moves ambient heat and therefore delivers more heat per unit of electricity. The actual difference on your bill depends on demand, ambient temperature, set-point and system condition, so we quote systems rather than promise a percentage.
Recovery behaviour
Elements heat quickly and aggressively. Heat pumps heat more gradually, which is why scheduling matters: recovery should be programmed to finish before your peak usage rather than during it.
Cost and lifespan
A heat pump costs considerably more to install than an element and has moving parts requiring servicing. In exchange it uses less electricity per litre heated. Retaining the element as backup gives you cover for unusual demand and for any period the heat pump is out of service.
Which suits which property
High, regular hot water demand favours a heat pump. Very low or highly intermittent demand — an occasionally used holiday flat, for example — may not justify the capital cost.
If you want this assessed on your own property, call 069 268 0988. We inspect, explain what we find, and quote in writing.