Heat pumps & grants · Homeowner answer
Can a heat pump work with my existing radiators?
Often, yes. A heat pump runs at a lower water temperature than a boiler, so each radiator gives out less heat. Rooms where the radiator is generously sized usually keep theirs; smaller radiators in colder rooms may need to be swapped for larger ones. SEAI grant support covers up to €2,000 of central heating upgrades like this.
A boiler typically heats radiators to around 70°C. A heat pump is most efficient at around 35–50°C. At that lower temperature a radiator gives out less heat, so the question is whether each radiator is still big enough for its room.
In practice, many Cork houses keep most of their radiators and upgrade a few — usually in the living room, a cold bedroom on a gable wall, or an extension. Underfloor heating suits heat pumps very well because it covers a large area at low temperature.
What changes the answer
- how well the house is insulated
- the size and type of each radiator
- the pipe sizes feeding them
- how warm you like each room
What you can check yourself
- measure each radiator (height, width, single or double panel)
- note which rooms are hardest to heat now
What to do next
Ask for a room-by-room heat loss calculation. It tells you exactly which radiators stay and which change.
This page gives general information only. Christy needs to see your system — in person or from your photos — before he can give you firm advice or a price.