Heat pumps use a lot of electricity. So having one makes your choice of electricity supplier extra important. Here’s what you should know about electricity plans for heat pumps, plus a live ranking electricity plans for heat pumps in Ireland.
⚡️ How heat pumps impact your electricity usage
Most heat pump installers advise keeping your heat pump switched on 24/7. This is because heat pumps generally perform best as a source of gentle, steady heat (not bursts like an oil or gas boiler).
The result is elevated electricity usage at all times of the day and night. But especially at night, when temperatures tend to be lower. See the image below for an example consumption profile from an air-source heat pump.
Heat Pump Example Consumption Profile
✅ What makes a good electricity tariff for a heat pump?
Given that most heat pumps operate round-the-clock, average unit price is the most important factor to look for. However, a low-cost EV band can also make a big difference when it comes to heating your water cylinder cheaply.
Time-of-use electricity tariffs are usually the best for heat pumps. This is because they tend to have excellent night rates and reasonable day rates. EV tariffs can also work well, especially if you use a lot of hot water for showers.
🏅 Live Rankings of tariffs for heat pumps in Ireland
Note: Results include Urban tariffs for all meter types. Customise your price comparison.
⚠️ One size does NOT fit all
Every household has a unique electricity use profile. And with smart meters and heat pumps, the exact usage profile makes a huge difference. So run a 60-second Custom Electricity Price Comparison to find the best tariff for you and save €300-€600 extra per year.
Warning: DON’T do this if you like overpaying for electricity!
💸 More ways to save on electricity with heat pumps
Schedule water heating for an EV band. EV bands typically have the very lowest energy cost (~7c per kWh)
Use a setback temperature during peak hours (5pm-7pm). If your home holds heat well, this could mean your heat pump doesn’t need to run at all while electricity is most expensive
Make sure your heat pump flow temperature is not set too high. Experiment to find the lowest flow temperature that’s still enough to heat your home adequately. A lower flow temperature means lower electricity usage
Beware of closing radiator valves. This can reduce the flow rate from the heat pump, impairing efficiency
📰 Articles in This Series
Best electricity tariffs for heat pumps
Best electricity tariffs for home batteries
Best electricity tariffs for storage heaters
Best electricity tariffs for EVs
Best electricity tariffs for solar panels