Heat pumps
Low-carbon heat, designed properly.
An air source heat pump replaces a gas or oil boiler with efficient electric heating and hot water. Design quality makes or breaks the result, which is why we only approve installers who hold the right certifications.
How a heat pump works
A heat pump extracts heat from outside air, even in winter, and upgrades it to heat your home and hot water. For every unit of electricity it uses, it typically delivers around three units of heat.
Design matters more than brand
A heat pump runs at lower temperatures than a boiler, so radiator sizing, pipework and insulation need checking. A room-by-room heat loss calculation is the foundation of a good installation. Expect every approved installer to do one.
Support schemes
Government schemes in Great Britain can contribute towards the cost of replacing a fossil fuel boiler with a heat pump installed by a certified installer. Scheme rules and amounts change, so ask installers to confirm current eligibility.
Costs
What affects the price
We don't publish a single price because there isn't one. These are the things that move your quotes up or down.
- 01
Heat loss and unit size
The larger the heat demand, the bigger (and costlier) the heat pump.
- 02
Radiator and pipework changes
Some radiators may need upsizing for low-temperature running.
- 03
Hot water cylinder
Most installs need a cylinder; space and plumbing affect cost.
- 04
Insulation improvements
Loft or cavity wall insulation can reduce the system size needed.
- 05
Electrical supply
Supply capacity and a dedicated circuit are required.
- 06
Grants
Eligible installations may attract a grant that reduces the upfront price.
At the survey
What a good installer will check
Every approved installer surveys before quoting. Expect them to look at these.
- Room-by-room heat loss calculation
- Insulation levels and fabric improvements
- Radiator sizes and flow temperatures
- Space for the outdoor unit and noise considerations
- Hot water cylinder location
- Electrical supply capacity
- Planning or permitted development conditions
- Scheme eligibility and paperwork
Questions
Common questions
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