Many governments are encouraging homeowners to switch from old, fossil-fuel heating systems to more environmentally friendly options like heat pumps. They do this by offering financial incentives like grants and rebates. However, these programs have specific rules, deadlines, and eligibility requirements. In this lesson, you'll learn how to understand these rules for a UK-based program and persuade a homeowner to make the switch.
What is a Heat Pump?
A simple explanation of how heat pumps work.
Video Transcript
Hey, it's me, Dave, and this is a heat pump. It's an energy-efficient heating and cooling system you can install at home. How does it work? Here, let me show you. Your typical air source heat pump, like this mini-split system, has two main components: an indoor and an outdoor unit, which are connected by a refrigerant line. [ 00:00:21 ]
To heat your home in the winter, the outdoor unit pulls heat from the air outside your home. Yes, believe it or not, even when it's cold outside, air still contains a certain amount of heat. The warm air then goes through a refrigerant coolant that is compressed to increase the temperature even more. This warm air is then pushed through to the home. [ 00:00:43 ]
In the summer, to cool your home, the process is reversed. The heat pump absorbs the warm air in your home and transfers it outside. The compressor circulates refrigerant to the indoor evaporator coil, and the refrigerant absorbs heat as it passes over the indoor air. The resulting cool and dehumidified air then gets blown back into the home. [ 01:03 ]
And that's how a heat pump works. The key here is that heat pumps don't generate heat, but instead, they move it from one place to another, which is why heat pumps are so energy efficient. In fact, a heat pump can be up to 300% more efficient than electric baseboards. So if you already have electric heat, a heat pump can help you save on your energy bill. Less energy and more savings. [ 01:30 ]
If you're switching from a fossil fuel-based heating source, like a natural gas furnace, you'll be reducing your carbon footprint. It's kind of like going from a size 18 down to a size two. You get the idea. It's an environmentally friendly option, especially here in BC where we're powered by water. Plus, with rebates from CleanBC and BC Hydro, there's more to save. [ 01:57 ]
Decode the Rules (15 mins)
Work in small groups. Read the information below about the UK's Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Your task is to turn these rules into a simple "decision tree" to help a homeowner quickly see if they are eligible. A decision tree asks simple yes/no questions to guide a person to a conclusion. For example: Do you own your own home? (Yes/No). Is your property in England or Wales? (Yes/No).
Create your decision tree on a piece of paper. You will use it to prepare your pitch in the next step.
Example of a Decision Tree
Your tree should help someone follow a path to find out if they should accept a new job offer.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) - Government Guidance
You could get a grant to cover part of the cost of replacing fossil fuel heating systems with a heat pump.
Grant Amount:
- £7,500 towards an air source heat pump or ground source heat pump.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Property Ownership: You must own the property. This includes homeowners, small landlords, and private landlords. Tenants who rent cannot apply.
- Location: The property must be located in England or Wales.
- Valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Your property must have a valid EPC issued in the last 10 years. An EPC shows the energy efficiency of your home. The certificate must not have any outstanding recommendations for loft or cavity wall insulation. If it does, you must install this insulation before you can get the grant.
- New System Only: The grant is only for replacing an existing fossil fuel system (like gas, oil, or electric). It cannot be used for new-build properties that have not been occupied. You cannot get a grant for a system you have already installed.
- Commissioning Date: The heating system must be commissioned (officially installed and certified) on or after April 1, 2022.
How to Apply: You do not apply. Your installer will apply for the grant on your behalf. The value of the grant will be taken off the price you pay.
Language Focus: Recommendations & Conditions
When making a strong recommendation, especially about financial decisions, we use specific language. We also use words to explain conditions and limits, like deadlines and maximum amounts.
Giving Recommendations
Using modals like should is a direct way to give advice. Phrases like it would be wise to or you might want to consider are slightly more formal and polite.
You should replace your old boiler to save money on your energy bills.
It would be wise to check your home's insulation before applying.
You might want to consider a heat pump because of the government grant.
Describing Numbers and Conditions
Prepositions and specific adverbs are used to set limits on numbers, dates, and requirements.
| Term | Meaning & Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| up to | Indicates the maximum possible amount; the actual amount could be less. | The grant provides up to £7,500 for a new heat pump. |
| by / before | Indicates a deadline. Something must happen on or before this time/date. | You need to have the work completed by the end of the year. |
| at least | Indicates the minimum required amount. | You must have lived in the property for at least one year. |
| on or after | Indicates the starting point for eligibility. | The system must be installed on or after April 1, 2022. |
Pitch Your Proposal (25 mins)
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