In the UK’s journey to carbon net-zero by 2050, heat pumps are an increasingly attractive technology for heating and cooling. Here we look at heat pumps, their benefits, and why they are becoming a popular choice for homeowners.
What is a heat pump?
A heat pump is a device that transfers heat from one place to another, using a small amount of energy. Unlike conventional heating and cooling systems that generate heat or cold air, heat pumps move heat from a cool space to a warm space, making the cool space cooler and the warm space warmer. This process is highly efficient because it merely transfers heat rather than generating it.
How do heat pumps work?
Heat pumps operate based on the principles of refrigeration, using a refrigerant to absorb and release heat. The heat pump has two cycles of heating and cooling. During the heating cycle, the evaporator extracts heat from the outside air (even in cold weather), the ground, or water sources. The heat is then compressed, increasing its temperature before being released into the indoor space via the condenser. During the cooling cycle, the process is reversed, with the evaporator absorbing heat from the indoor air and the condenser releasing it outside, cooling the indoor space.
Benefits of heat pumps
Energy efficiency
Heat pumps can be up to 300-400% efficient, meaning they produce three to four times more energy than they consume. This is significantly higher than traditional heating systems, resulting in potential savings on heating bills.
Environmental impact
By using renewable heat sources (air, ground, or water), heat pumps reduce reliance on fossil fuels, cutting greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability. The government has enforced a ban on gas boilers in new builds from 2025, and a complete installation ban by 2035, making heat pumps an increasingly popular low-carbon solution for heating your home.
Cost savings
Despite higher upfront costs, heat pumps can lead to significant savings on energy bills due to their high efficiency and lower operating costs. Versatility Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, making them a year-round solution for climate control. Comfort They offer consistent and even heating or cooling, enhancing indoor comfort levels.
UK Government grants for heat pumps
To support the adoption of renewable heating systems, the UK government offers grants to help cover the costs of installing heat pumps.
Under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Homeowners can receive one grant per property, with the current grants available as follows:
- £7,500 towards an air source heat pump
- £7,500 towards a ground source heat pump (including water source heat pumps and those on shared ground loops)
- £5,000 towards a biomass boiler
It is important to note that hybrid heat pump systems, such as a combination of a gas boiler and an air source heat pump, are not eligible for these grants.
Additionally, the systems installed must meet certain standards, including minimum efficiency levels, which your installer can advise on. The maximum capacity for individual systems is 45kWth, while shared ground loops can have a maximum capacity of 300kWth.
Is my home suitable for a heat pump?
Thousands of homes in the UK are already reaping the benefits of heat pumps, and yours could be next. However, for a heat pump to operate efficiently and at its full potential, your home must meet certain criteria.
While technically possible to install a heat pump in most UK homes, its efficiency depends on several key factors.
To maximise the benefits of your heat pump, your property should have:
- Proper insulation: According to the Ground Source Heat Pump Association, there’s no specific minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating required for heat pump installation. However, to qualify for the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) grant, homeowners must show Ofgem an EPC demonstrating that their property meets minimum standards for loft insulation and cavity wall insulation.
- Underfloor heating or large radiators: Generally, radiators need to be about two-and-a-half times larger than standard ones to provide the same heat output.
- Exterior space for the heat pump: Suitable locations include a garden, patio, or spacious balcony.
- Interior space for the hot water cylinder: A typical domestic household will need a cylinder with a capacity of 35 to 45 litres.
Final thoughts
The UK government’s grants and incentives, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, make adopting heat pumps even more accessible and attractive for homeowners. These grants help offset the initial installation costs, making the long-term savings and environmental benefits even more compelling.
For those considering heat pumps, it’s essential to ensure your home meets the necessary criteria to maximise their efficiency. Proper insulation, suitable heating systems, and adequate space for installation are key factors in harnessing the full potential of this technology.
As thousands of UK households have already discovered, heat pumps are not just a step towards a more comfortable living environment, but also a significant stride towards a sustainable and eco-friendly future.