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First-time buyer guide to sustainable heating options

Discover the best sustainable heating options for first-time buyers, including heat pumps, hybrid systems, and smart controls.
Man holding two cardboard boxes
Man holding two cardboard boxes

More and more first-time buyers are becoming aware of their environmental responsibility, so they are considering a more sustainable type of home that is more efficient. For these buyers, choosing low carbon heating isn’t just an option; it’s a commitment to the future.

At Vaillant, we’re here to simplify your search for a sustainable heating solution. From heat pumps to hybrid systems and smart controls, we offer innovative solutions that make managing your heating easier.

Why first-time buyers should consider sustainable heating

Buying a home is a significant milestone, and choosing sustainable heating options has many advantages. Not only do they reduce environmental impact, but they can also help to keep your running costs down and reduce your carbon footprint.

As part of the UK Government’s targets to lower carbon emissions, they are promoting heat pumps due to their energy efficiency compared with traditional heating systems. If you move into a new home and the heating system needs an update, or you are carrying out a large renovation project, it can be easier to install heat pumps during this process, as you can size up the radiators to suit the system or even install underfloor heating.

If you’re moving into a new build, likely, you may already have a heat pump installed. New-build developers are installing these in new homes to help meet Net Zero targets.

aroTHERM plys heat pump unit in front of a bush.

Your sustainable heating options

1. Heat Pumps: The Future of Home Heating

Heat pumps are a revolutionary choice for energy-efficient heating. These systems use electricity rather than fossil fuels and transfer heat from the air, ground, or a local water source to warm your home, using far less energy than traditional methods. Vaillant’s range of heat pumps offers top-notch efficiency and reliability.

If you’re moving into a new build, you may have a heat pump system already installed. It’s important to familiarise yourself with the system's operation and maintenance requirements. The developers would have left the relevant paperwork with the heat pump.

You should also check the heating control to ensure it has been set up to suit your needs to maximise comfort and efficiency.

If you’re unsure how to use your new heat pump, we have lots of advice about looking after your heat pump or get in touch with us to discuss your new Vaillant heat pump system.

You should also check the heating control to ensure it has been set up to suit your needs to maximise comfort and efficiency.

If you’re unsure how to use your new heat pump, we have lots of advice about looking after your heat pump or get in touch with us to discuss your new Vaillant heat pump system.

Check that the system is correctly set up and ensure all components are working seamlessly together. It's wise to schedule a professional inspection to confirm everything is functioning optimally. Familiarise yourself with the controls and settings to maximise comfort and efficiency. Regular maintenance will keep your system running smoothly, providing you with reliable warmth and peace of mind. Enjoy the benefits of a modern heating solution that’s good for you and the environment.

The UK Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) provides financial incentives for homeowners installing heat pumps. The scheme provides a grant of up to £7,500 to reduce the upfront cost of installation for all eligible domestic property owners in England and Wales who are looking to install a low-carbon heating system to replace traditional fossil fuel systems. Learn more about this programme and how it can benefit you here.

For those living in Scotland, there’s a different type of funding available through the Home Energy Scotland (HES) grant. There may be alternative funding available in Northern Ireland.

What is a green mortgage ?

Green mortgages are designed to help homeowners improve their homes' energy efficiency. The aim is to reduce a home’s overall carbon footprint and save on energy bills, making investments worthwhile.

If your home has a good EPC rating, it can boost the property’s value, signalling lower running costs. You can read more about green mortgages on the Energy Saving Trust website.

2. Hybrid heating: Combining the best of both worlds

Hybrid heating systems are a great first step towards decarbonising your home. They operate by blending traditional boilers with renewable technologies like heat pumps. This combination ensures consistent performance, even during peak demand. Vaillant’s hybrid systems are designed for maximum efficiency, seamlessly switching between energy sources as needed.

A hybrid system will usually use a gas or oil-fired boiler alongside a heat pump, combining the speed and high-power heating capability of a boiler with the energy efficiency of a heat pump. By switching between the boiler and heat pump as required, the system is able to deliver heat efficiently and on demand.

It is important to note that there is no government funding available for hybrid heating systems.

Find out how hybrid systems can work for your home on our Hybrid heating systems page.

person holding a Vaillant heating control in their hands

3. Smart heating controls: Optimising comfort and efficiency

Smart heating controls provide greater management of your home’s temperature, minimising energy waste. Vaillant’s smart thermostats integrate perfectly with our heating systems, offering features like remote access, energy saving tips and customisable schedules to maximise comfort and energy savings. You can control your heating via an app like myVAILLANT or voice command when paired with Amazon Alexa or Apple HomeKit.

Learn more about our smart controls on the Smart heating controls page.

Why choose Vaillant?

For 150 years, Vaillant has led the way in heating innovation. Our products combine advanced technology with a commitment to sustainability, helping first-time buyers make informed, sustainable choices.

Key Benefits of Choosing Vaillant:

Are you buying your first home or planning for the future? Vaillant is here to guide you. By choosing sustainable heating solutions, you’re investing in a brighter future for yourself and the planet.

Contact us to learn how Vaillant can help you find the perfect heating system for your new home.

Learn more about Vaillant heat pumps