As the colder season approaches in Europe, building owners, facility managers, and operations managers are faced with the critical decision of how to efficiently heat their spaces. While traditional fossil-fueled boilers have long been the go-to solution, the growing emphasis on energy efficiency is prompting many to explore alternative heating options.

One option that is gaining traction is renting a heat pump. In this blog, we will delve into the benefits of heating as a service, and what managers should consider when making the transition.

The Business Case for Heating as a Service
1. Cost-Effectiveness
Renting a heat pump can be significantly more cost-effective than purchasing a new system outright or oversizing it to meet demands all year round. For businesses that may not have the capital to invest in a new heating system, renting provides a flexible and affordable alternative. It also avoids high operating costs from running oversized systems. Finally, Trane rental solutions include maintenance and service, reducing the burden of unexpected repair costs.

2. Flexibility and Scalability
One of the primary advantages of renting is the flexibility it offers. Whether you need temporary heating or a longer-term arrangement, rental companies can tailor their offerings to meet your specific needs. This is particularly beneficial for businesses with fluctuating heating demands or those undergoing renovations.

3. Energy Efficiency
For those who highly value energy-efficient solutions, renting a heat pump can be an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint. Heat pumps are known for their high energy efficiency and ability to provide both heating and cooling, making them a versatile and eco-friendly option. By opting for heating as a service, you can experience the latest technology first-hand and save energy immediately without committing to a permanent installation.

4. Circular economy
Opting for a rental solution is a responsible choice, as it promotes circularity. In a circular economy, products and materials are kept in circulation, which slows down resource extraction and increases business resilience. In fact, in a 2024 survey by the World Economic Forum, 75 percent of top executive respondents indicated that engaging in circularity is already an important or extremely important part of their business model.

Real-life scenarios
Let’s consider typical scenarios where renting a heat pump can make perfect sense for your business case.

Scenario 1: Try before you commit
Consider a sustainability manager whose target is to reduce a site’s carbon footprint. As part of their strategy, they are contemplating a low-carbon alternative to their fossil fuel heating system. To test the technology and prove the benefits, they are considering turning off their boiler and renting a heat pump during winter to evaluate how it performs and the impact on operating costs.

By opting for a heat pump rental, they can:
• Test the Waters: assess the performance and efficiency of the heat pump without a long-term commitment.
• Reduce Carbon Emissions: Heat pumps use electricity, which can be sourced from renewable energy, significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to fossil-fueled boilers.
• Monitor Energy Savings: They can track energy consumption and savings throughout the winter, providing valuable data to inform future decisions.

Scenario 2: Managing costs during renovations
A facility manager has determined that their aging HVAC system, comprised of a chiller and a boiler, need to be replaced. They are torn between purchasing a new boiler and chiller or investing in a heat pump.

In this case, renting a heat pump offers several advantages:
• Integrated Solution: Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, eliminating the need for separate systems and simplifying maintenance.
• Energy Efficiency: Heat pumps are 3 to 4 times more efficient than traditional boilers.
• Trial Period: Renting allows the company to evaluate the heat pump's performance and efficiency before making a significant investment.

Why Now is the Time to Act
As we prepare for the cold season, the demand for heating solutions will increase. Securing a rental heat pump now ensures that you are prepared for the winter season. Additionally, rental companies often have limited inventory, so acting promptly can guarantee availability and avoid potential delays.

Don't wait until the cold sets in!

Contact your local rental team today