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Massive Electricity Cost for Running My Air Source Heat Pump

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Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs)

Last Post by Transparent 3 months ago

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Transparent

(@transparent)

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26/11/2024 11:36 am

I don't think the insulation around those four external pipe runs is adequate.

Although I can't see how they arrange themselves to pass through a 100-125mm outer sleeve, the pipe clips have already compromised the wall thickness before the flow even gets there.

I also wonder if the installer has used Split-Insulation.
If so, then the split will be gaping open on the side which faces into the wall.

The approved method is to use adhesive to join the splits,
and for all bevel-cut ends around pipe elbows.

This then gets an outer layer of 'tape' to further cover the joins.

Armaflex and Kaiflex both manufacture UV-resistant external insulation.
It's usually sold as "solar insulation" because it gets used on roof-mounted solar-thermal collectors.

This post was modified 3 months ago 2 times by Transparent

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Transparent

(@transparent)

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26/11/2024 11:41 am

As for the steel shed, I would expect to see around 100mm thick insulation sheet for the roof,
and around 75mm for the walls and door.

It must be draft-proof,
which may require neoprene rubber gaskets to be cut and glued around the pipe-exit holes.

I can provide further construction details if required.

The adhesive will be a 'contact' type such as this from Screwfix

Pipe insulation is usually best undertaken as a DIY task...
... preferably by someone with OCD!

This post was modified 3 months ago by Transparent

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Econonsense

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26/11/2024 12:13 pm

@transparent Hi, I spend most of my time on international travel through work.

However, I have taken some time to check what you guys are saying and you're entirely correct.

See pics!

My first avenue was simply to get it all corrected, however I see now I will have to find the time to do most of it myself if I want it done well.

If I posted pictures of the horrific work they did in my house I think you guys would turn up with pitch forks outside their office!

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Transparent

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26/11/2024 12:39 pm

If you're going to take a DIY route to fixing the pipe insulation, then you should be asking for a rebate from the installer.

To calculate this, first ask them how long it will take them to remove what's there and do it again properly.
Then use £45/hour per person and add in the cost of buying the insulation yourself.
That should provide you with a good starting point.

They'll be super busy and wanting to get on with their next job rather than fix yours.
So the option of repaying you in cash will be tempting for them.

One possibility for you to consider is to make a rectangular box around those external pipes and seal them in...
... at least for the main vertical run.

There are PVC parts used by window-fitters and firms who clad facia boards, which could be fashioned into suitable boxing.

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Econonsense

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26/11/2024 12:55 pm

@transparent I couldn't agree more, my first idea when looking at it was to box it in.

There isn't enough clearance between the pipes and wall to insulate it much better.

My sons arm was recently injured quite badly, but as soon as he is fit I will lob him up in the loft to check the pipe insulation in there. I wouldn't be at all surprised if it is just the rockwool!

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Transparent

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26/11/2024 1:15 pm

Absolutely!
Child labour is well suited to the task of pipe insulation in confined spaces.

To seal where pipes enter the steel shed, I'd be using offcuts of EPDM rubber roofing material.
It's excellent for shaping around joins, and easy to cut.