Your guide to finding the most efficient time to buy and install heat pumps in the UK.
Thinking about making the switch to a heat pump but unsure when to take the leap? We hear you! Many UK homeowners are exploring this smart way to heat their homes, which has the potential to boost energy efficiency. But with so much to consider, from grants to installation timing, it's easy to feel a bit overwhelmed by choice. Luckily, we're here to help you navigate with this handy guide.
Moving past the gas boiler and looking to 2035.
The UK is on a journey towards a greener future, and heating our homes plays a big part. With the government setting ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions, there’s a clear move away from traditional fossil fuel boilers and over to more efficient systems, like heat pumps.
While there's no immediate ban, the UK government has announced a ban on the sale of new fossil fuel boilers for off-grid homes, starting from 2026. However, this ban extends to all homes by 2035, meaning that gas boilers will eventually be phased out.
So, choosing a heat pump now is a proactive step, putting you ahead of the race. Not only will you be future proofing your home, but you’ll be contributing to a cleaner environment.
The best season to install a heat pump.
Before you get started, it’s best to assess the best time to do it. So, let's talk about the best season to get your heat pump installed. After all, you’ll want to ensure a smooth process and maximum efficiency from day one.
Choose a spring or autumn heat pump installation window.
In the UK, think of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) as the optimum seasons for heat pump installation. This is because the weather is just right – not too hot and not too cold. Those mild temperatures mean that your heating system won’t be under high demand during the installation period and demand is generally lower. As a result, allowing for a quicker and all round smoother process. It also means that your new system will be prepped and ready for the chilly winter.
Why avoiding the winter rush is crucial.
If you leave your heat pump installation until the winter you could experience longer wait times and a bumpier ride. Naturally, when temperatures drop in the winter months, the demand for heating engineers soars, often due to breakdowns and emergency repairs. These factors can equal stretched lead times for installations and the potential for more stress, and no one wants that! So, make sure you plan ahead and aim for a spring or autumn installation.
How heat pumps give you year-round comfort.
One of the best things about air source heat pumps is their efficiency. They have the potential to keep your home at a comfy temperature throughout the year – and not just when it's chilly!
There are two main types of heat pump – air-to-water and air-to-air. Both options extract warmth from the air, but it’s how they deliver that heat that differs. We specialise in air-to-water systems, so let’s expand on how they work.
An air-to-water heat pump takes warm air and moves it to your home's wet central heating system. It basically heats the water that circulates through your radiators or underfloor heating. However, it can also provide hot water for your taps, bath, and shower. It serves a similar purpose to your traditional gas or oil boiler. The difference is, you'll need a water cylinder for your hot water, and you may need to upgrade your radiators to boost efficiency.
Overall, heat pumps can offer significant efficiency gains over gas boilers. Gas boilers convert fuel to heat with around 90% efficiency, while heat pumps can achieve efficiencies exceeding 300%. The results could mean lower energy bills and reduced carbon emissions.1
Navigating heat pump costs: grants and savings.
Investing in a heat pump can be a big decision, but happily, there's support available to help you with the costs. Let's take a look at the grants and schemes available to give you a helping hand.
Get a £7,500 grant with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) gives homeowners in England and Wales a significant helping hand. The scheme offers those eligible a grant of up to £7,500 towards the cost of installing an air source or ground source heat pump, helping make the switch to a low carbon heating system more affordable. This is one of the few grants also available for business heating.
To be eligible, you must own the property and replacement of a fossil fuel heating system is required. Existing installations made after 1 April 2022 may also be eligible for the scheme. Find out how to apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme or learn about other boiler grants.
Benefit from zero-rated VAT until March 2027.
Another way to reduce the overall cost of your new heat pump is by taking advantage of the government zero-rated VAT initiative on energy saving materials and heating equipment. This handy initiative includes the installation of air and ground source heat pumps as well as solar panels. It's set to continue until 31 March 2027 and goes up to 5% VAT on 1 April 2027.2
This initiative makes essential upgrades like heat pump installation more accessible and affordable, giving you an incentive to consider your installation sooner rather than later. Learn more about the government's zero-rated VAT initiative.
Discounted insulation with the Great British Insulation Scheme.
Having optimal insulation in your home can help to keep in heat, reducing the workload on your heat pump. This is where the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) comes in! It’s a government initiative helping homes across Britain boost their energy efficiency rating through potential access to free or discounted insulation. There are several types of insulation you can receive through the GBIS: cavity wall, loft, and room in roof.
The GBIS isn’t just for those on benefits or a low income – you could qualify simply from your council tax band and EPC rating. Learn more about the Great British Insulation Scheme, including the full eligibility criteria and how to apply.
Making the most of your heat pump ready home.
When you’ve ticked the installation of your to-do list, and your heat pump is up and running, you'll be well on your way to a warm and efficient home. But how do you get the most out of your new system? We’ll get into that now.
Set the right temperature.
Aim for a consistent temperature rather than constantly adjusting the thermostat. This helps maintain efficiency and comfort.
Use a timer.
Program your heat pump to turn on and off according to your schedule. This way, you’re not heating an empty home.
Regular maintenance.
Keep up with regular servicing to ensure your heat pump is operating at its best.
Insulate your home.
Good insulation helps retain heat, and reduces the workload on your heat pump.
Learn more about how to use your heat pump most efficiently.
Fact vs fiction: Solving those heat pump myths.
It’s only natural to have questions and even concerns, especially when it comes to new technology. So, next, we’ll address some common myths about heat pumps.
"Heat pumps don't work in cold UK weather."
Fiction! Heat pumps work in weather as cold as -25°C, but there are some important factors to consider. While heat pumps can extract heat from the air even in cold temperatures, their efficiency can decrease as outdoor temperatures drop. This means they might need to work harder and use more electricity to provide the same amount of heat as in milder weather.
"Heat pumps are noisy."
Mostly fiction. Today's heat pumps are surprisingly quiet. Noise levels have come down a lot in recent years, and most modern units only create a gentle hum, similar to an outdoor air conditioning unit. However, like any outdoor equipment, they do make some noise.
"Heat pumps aren't compatible with existing radiators."
Somewhat fiction. While heat pumps generally work best with larger radiators or underfloor heating, it's not always necessary to replace all your existing radiators. An MCS certified installer will assess your current system and advise on any necessary adjustments to ensure optimal performance.
We’re trusted: Our simple installation process.
When you choose us for your installation, we aim to give you peace of mind. We have many years of experience installing and optimising heat pumps, from the bespoke to the most complex installations. We'll guide you through every step, from initial assessment to the final checks.
Our renewable energy product installations are backed by HIES (The Home Insulation and Energy Systems Quality Assured Contractors Scheme) NICEIC, HEIS, MCS, Gas Safe, and the HPA (Heat Pump Association). So you can feel confident that our experts will design the most efficient system for your home.
Get your free heat pump quote today.
Whether you're still thinking things over or you're ready to go, we’re here to help. Answer a few quick questions today to request your free quote and consultation.