How Many Watts Does a Central Heating Pump Use?
Central heating pumps are used to pump hot water out of your boiler and into your taps, radiators, and showerheads. Without them, your central heating system simply wouldn't function.
But exactly how much power does a central heating pump use?
In this guide, we'll take a close look at how many watts of energy a central heating pump uses and give you some tips about choosing the right one for your home.
What is the average power consumption of different central heating pumps?
On average, a domestic central heating pump uses about 50 watts of power and runs on 240 volts. To put this into perspective, that is less power than it takes to boil a kettle.
The majority of central heating pumps sold in the UK vary in speed. The speed setting of your central heating pump determines how much power it uses. It also varies depending on the type of central heating pump you have in your central heating system.
Power consumption of different central heating pumps
- Two-speed pump: Around 50 to 150 watts
- Three-speed pump: Around 60 to 200 watts
- Modern high-efficiency pumps: 5 to 100 watts (some use as little as 2 to 3 watts)
Factors that affect power consumption of heat pumps
The main factors that affect the power consumption of a central heating pump are its model, size, and speed. The load requirements of your central heating system will also impact how much power your central heating pump uses.
The speed setting of the pump makes the central heating pump work harder, which results in higher levels of power consumption.
So, the speed tends to be the biggest factor that affects the consumption of power.
Energy-efficient options for central heating pumps
- Grundfos Alpha1 15-50N B Hot Water Service Circulating Pump
The Grundfos Alpha1 is designed to help keep your hot water pumping. Not only is it highly efficient, but you’ll also be saving a lot more energy in comparison to older models.
Features include:
- One pump can cover 5 or 6m
- Higher efficiency (EEI 0.17 htg and 0.20 hws)
- 3 constant and 3 proportional pressure modes
- Improved hydraulics
- Automatic de-blocking
- Maintenance-free and low noise
- Compact design
This pump also has speed modulations to help the pump match the system. This is so that the pressure level can be even and prevent any faults.
- Wilo Yonos Maxo 40/05-12 PN6/10 Pump
This next pump uses high-quality technology to help control your heating, ventilation and air-conditioning applications. With a synchronous motor and integrated power controls that can help monitor your pressure levels, the Wilo Yonos Maxo pump is a highly efficient pump.
Features include:
- LED display
- Simple adjustment of speed
- Wilo plug
- Collective fault signal
- Compact design
- Ease of use
- Grundfos Alpha3 15-50/60 B Domestic Circulating Pump
One of the major perks of the Grundfos Alpha3 Domestic Circulating Pump is that you can operate it via an app on your smartphone. You can decide how you want your pump to work by changing settings and scheduling times for it to operate.
Features include:
- High efficiency
- Low energy use
- No blockages
- The pump protects itself from dry run damage
- Easy to adjust
Other factors to consider when choosing a central heating pump
Noise levels
As with most of the components in a central heating system, a central heating pump does make some noise. However, when it's running smoothly, your central heating pump should only make a slight whirring noise. This is the noise that's generated as pressurised hot water exits the boiler.
Some pumps are louder than others, but whichever one you choose shouldn't be too noisy. If your pump is making a lot of noise, then it most likely has an issue.
It may be airlocked, incorrectly installed, clogged with debris, or set to the wrong water flow rate setting. If any of these issues are present, then you may hear a loud vibrating or banging noise.
To remove airlocks, use the pump bleed screw. Airlocks are one of the most common issues in central heating pumps and are easy to fix.
Durability and maintenance
Central heating pumps are a vital part of your central heating system. Therefore, you want to be sure that you choose one that will last for as long as possible and that requires little maintenance.
Most pumps last for around ten years without needing to be repaired or replaced. When choosing a central heating pump, make sure the manufacturer provides you with a warranty. This way, you'll be covered if anything goes wrong with the pump within the warranty period.
Cost and budget considerations
The cost of a central heating pump varies widely. Some of the more expensive models cost over £1,000, while some of the more affordable options cost around £200. The model you choose ultimately depends on how big your budget is.
Remember, you must also factor in how much it costs to install a central heating pump. This also varies significantly and can cost anywhere between £160 to £350.
To save on installation costs, you can install the pump yourself. This is relatively straightforward but if you don't feel confident doing it, then we recommend hiring a Gas Safe-registered professional to do it for you.
FAQs
How do I find the central heating pump on my boiler?
If you have a combi boiler, then you won't have a central heating pump as it's not necessary. If you have a system boiler or a regular boiler, the pump should be next to the boiler. Or, it might be in a separate airing cupboard.
How do I get rid of a blockage in my central heating pump?
The best way to eliminate blockage in your pump is to flush the system. You should then fit a magnetic system filter to prevent this from happening again.