The Efficiency Curve Nobody Talks About
Your heat pump installer probably told you it's "much more efficient than gas." What they didn't mention is that this is only true when it's running continuously. Turn it on and off like a traditional boiler, and that efficiency plummets.
The Cold Start Problem
Every time your heat pump starts from cold, it goes through an energy-intensive startup sequence:
- Defrost cycles - Clearing any ice from the outdoor unit
- Compressor ramp-up - Building pressure from zero
- Oil circulation - Getting lubricants flowing again
- Temperature overshoot - Running at maximum to reach setpoint quickly
This startup consumes significantly more energy per kWh of heat delivered compared to steady-state operation. If your system cycles on/off multiple times per day, you're burning money.
The COP Cliff
Coefficient of Performance (COP) - the measure of heat pump efficiency - varies dramatically with operating conditions. Continuous operation at lower flow temperatures delivers much higher efficiency than cycling operation at higher temperatures. The difference can be dramatic - potentially doubling your running costs.
Why Traditional Controls Get It Wrong
Conventional thermostats were designed for boilers that can reach high temperatures quickly. They use simple on/off logic: - Too cold? Fire up the boiler - Warm enough? Shut it down
Heat pumps can't work this way. They deliver heat slowly and steadily, matching your home's heat loss. Force them into on/off patterns and you destroy their fundamental advantage.
The Weather Compensation Trap
Many installers recommend weather compensation as the solution. While better than on/off control, it still misses the mark:
- Can't account for solar gain
- Ignores internal heat sources
- No learning or adaptation
- Still allows cycling in mild weather
The Continuous Operation Advantage
When heat pumps run continuously at low output:
Lower Flow Temperatures
Running constantly means you can use lower flow temperatures. Every degree lower improves efficiency significantly.
No Thermal Shock
Consistent temperatures reduce expansion/contraction stress on pipes, radiators, and the heat pump itself. Your system lasts longer.
Better Comfort
No more cold mornings or overheated afternoons. Your home maintains a rock-steady temperature 24/7.
Reduced Noise
Heat pumps are quietest at part load. No more full-power startups disturbing the neighbors.
The Building Science Bonus
Continuous heating does more than save energy:
- Moisture control - Consistent temperatures prevent condensation
- Fabric protection - Walls stay warm and dry
- Mold prevention - No cold spots for spores to thrive
- Structural stability - Even temperatures reduce movement
The Potential Impact
Homes switching from scheduled on/off to intelligent continuous operation can see:
- Significant reduction in energy use
- Notably lower running costs
- Improved temperature stability
- Fewer comfort complaints
The Warm Energy Difference
Traditional controls force your heat pump to work like a boiler. Our system lets it work like a heat pump:
- Predictive operation - We know when to add heat before you feel cold
- Load matching - Output perfectly balanced with heat loss
- Multi-source coordination - Seamlessly blend heat pump, solar, and other sources
- Continuous optimization - Always finding the sweet spot of efficiency
Making the Switch
Converting from on/off to continuous operation isn't just flipping a switch. It requires:
- Proper flow rates - Ensuring your system can deliver heat at low temperatures
- Radiator sizing - Confirming emitters can work at lower temperatures
- Intelligent control - Software that understands building physics
- Time to adapt - Your home needs time to reach thermal equilibrium
The Bottom Line
Your heat pump is a marathon runner, not a sprinter. Force it to sprint and it burns out quickly. Let it run steadily and it delivers exceptional efficiency.
Stop treating your heat pump like a boiler. Start treating it like the sophisticated piece of engineering it is. Your wallet - and your comfort - will thank you.
Ready to unlock your heat pump's true potential? Join our early access program and discover what continuous operation can do for your home.