Information Notice
This guide compiles information from official government publications, industry bodies, and public sources. We are not heat pump specialists or energy efficiency professionals. Always consult MCS-certified installers for technical advice specific to your property.
What are Heat Pumps?
According to the Energy Saving Trust, heat pumps are renewable energy systems that extract heat from the air, ground, or water outside your home and use it to provide heating and hot water.
Heat pumps work by using electricity to move heat from a cool space to a warm space, making the cool space cooler and the warm space warmer. This process is much more efficient than generating heat directly.
Key Benefits of Heat Pumps
Highly Efficient
According to manufacturers, heat pumps can be 300-400% efficient
Lower Emissions
Significantly lower carbon footprint than fossil fuel systems
Government Grants
Up to £7,500 available through various government schemes
Types of Heat Pumps
Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP)
According to the Heat Pump Association, ASHPs extract heat from the outside air and are suitable for most UK properties.
Typical Characteristics:
- Lower installation cost (£8,000-£15,000 typical)
- Suitable for most property types
- Requires outdoor unit placement
- Efficiency decreases in very cold weather
Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP)
According to industry sources, GSHPs use heat from the ground through buried pipes and offer higher efficiency than air source systems.
Typical Characteristics:
- Higher efficiency (COP 4-5 typical)
- Consistent performance year-round
- Higher installation cost (£15,000-£25,000 typical)
- Requires suitable garden space
Heat Pump Costs & Grants
Typical Installation Costs (Before Grants)
Costs vary significantly based on property size, system type, and installation complexity. These figures are compiled from industry surveys and installer websites:
Air Source Heat Pump
Including installation and VAT. Lower end for smaller properties.
Ground Source Heat Pump
Higher cost due to ground works and pipe installation.
Additional Costs
Upgrades to radiators, insulation, or distribution system.
Available Government Grants
Boiler Upgrade Scheme
For heat pumps in England and Wales
- • No income restrictions
- • MCS installer applies for you
- • Deducted from installation cost
ECO4 Scheme
For eligible households across GB
- • Income or benefit requirements
- • Can cover full installation cost
- • Available in Scotland too
💡 Many households qualify for both schemes, potentially covering most or all installation costs.
Get Heat Pump Quotes & Grant Applications
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Heat Pump Installation Process
Property Assessment
MCS installer surveys your property and recommends suitable system type and size.
Grant Applications
Installer applies for available grants (BUS, ECO4) before installation begins.
Installation
Professional installation typically takes 2-3 days for air source, longer for ground source.
Commissioning
System testing, handover training, and warranty registration completion.
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