In a direct comparison, the iHelios Smart Heating System, when paired with solar panels, reduced annual heating energy costs to £0, compared to £960 for a heat pump and £936 for a gas system. Despite a similar initial investment to a subsidized heat pump, the iHelios system’s superior efficiency and solar integration deliver complete energy self-sufficiency and significant long-term savings.
This case study breaks down the real-world energy usage and costs of an iHelios Smart Heating system versus a heat pump and a gas boiler. We analyze the initial investment, annual running costs, and the impact of solar panels. The data clearly shows how the iHelios system not only competes on upfront cost but eliminates annual energy bills entirely, proving its superior value and efficiency.
In this case study, we will compare the real-world energy usage and cost-effectiveness of three different home heating systems: the iHelios Smart Heating System, a standard Air Source Heat Pump, and a modern Gas Boiler system.
System Overview & Initial Costs
Here’s a look at the initial investment for each system, based on real-world data from energy supplier websites.
1. iHelios Smart Infrared Heating System
- System Cost: £5,500
- Solar Panels (4.4 kW): £5,800
- Total Initial Cost: £11,300
- Heating Method: Eco-invisible infrared smart heating with multi-zone control.
2. Air Source Heat Pump System
- System Cost: £18,000
- Government Grant: -£7,500
- Total Initial Cost: £10,500
- Heating Method: Conventional air-source heat pump connected to a radiator system.
3. Gas Boiler System
- System Cost: £6,000
- Heating Method: Standard condensing gas boiler with radiators.
Annual Energy Usage Comparison
The following data shows the actual energy consumed by a home over one year for each system.
|
Heating System |
Annual kWh Usage |
Efficiency Factor |
Energy Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
|
iHelios Smart Heating |
6,800 kWh |
99% |
3,100 kWh |
|
Heat Pump System |
9,600 kWh |
300% |
3,200 kWh |
|
Gas Boiler System |
9,600 kWh |
82.5% |
11,700 kWh |
Annual Running Costs
Assuming an electricity cost of £0.30 per kWh and a gas cost of £0.08 per kWh:
- iHelios Smart Heating System: 3,100 kWh x £0.30 = £930
- Heat Pump System: 3,200 kWh x £0.30 = £960
- Gas Heating System: 11,700 kWh x £0.08 = £936
The Impact of Solar Panels
The iHelios system was installed with a 4.4 kW solar panel array, fundamentally changing its running cost profile.
- Annual Solar Energy Production: 4,000 kWh
- Energy Required by iHelios System: 3,100 kWh
- Net Result: The solar panels produced 900 kWh more energy than the heating system required.
Net Energy Costs after Solar Contribution
- iHelios Smart Heating System: £0
- Heat Pump System: £960
- Gas Heating System: £936
The surplus energy from the solar panels can be stored in a battery, used to heat water, or sold back to the grid, creating additional savings or even income.
Long-Term Savings & Environmental Impact
Over the course of a year, the iHelios Smart Heating System results in significant cost savings compared to both the heat pump and gas boiler systems. This is driven by its high efficiency and seamless integration with solar power.
Further savings are realized when considering maintenance:
- iHelios: £0 annual maintenance.
- Heat Pump & Gas Boiler: Annual servicing costs (£100-£300).
The lifespan of the iHelios film is also approximately double that of a heat pump or boiler, avoiding a major replacement cost in years 10-15. This commitment to longevity is part of our climate commitment.
From an environmental perspective, the iHelios system offers a substantial benefit. By using less electricity and leveraging solar energy, it helps reduce carbon emissions, contributing to a more sustainable home.
Conclusion
The iHelios Smart Heating System, combined with solar panels, proves to be the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice. While the initial investment is similar to a subsidized heat pump, its ability to run with a net energy cost of £0 provides a substantial and immediate return on investment.
This case study demonstrates that investing in advanced smart home solutions like iHelios not only leads to dramatic energy and cost savings but also contributes positively to the environment. Ready to learn more? Contact now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is the total cost of the iHelios system with solar panels similar to a heat pump?
While the heat pump itself is very expensive (£18,000), a large government grant reduces the customer’s cost to £10,500. The iHelios system plus a full solar panel installation comes to a similar total of £11,300, but delivers far greater long-term value by eliminating running costs.
Is iHelios really free to run?
When paired with a properly sized solar panel system, iHelios can be free to run. As shown in the case study, the solar panels generated more electricity over the year than the heating system consumed, resulting in a net running cost of £0 for heating.
Does a heat pump not work with solar panels?
A heat pump can be powered by solar panels. However, because it is slightly less efficient in real-world use than the iHelios system (3,200 kWh vs 3,100 kWh needed), it would still result in a net cost, and it doesn’t offer the other benefits of infrared, like preventing damp. See a customer’s infrared heating review.
What happens if I don’t get solar panels with iHelios?
Without solar panels, the iHelios system’s running cost is almost identical to a gas boiler or a heat pump (£930 per year in this study). However, it still offers benefits like zero maintenance, a longer lifespan, improved comfort, and better air quality.
Can iHelios be installed anywhere?
Yes, iHelios is incredibly versatile. It’s an invisible system that can be installed in ceilings, walls, or under floors. It’s particularly effective under tiled floors, as explained in our guide to installing infrared heating film under tiles.