The UK is home to millions of older properties, from Victorian terraces to 1930s semis. As the country moves toward net-zero carbon targets, many homeowners, landlords, and commercial property owners are exploring renewable technologies like air source heat pumps (ASHPs). But one common question remains: Do air source heat pumps work in old houses?
If you own or manage an older property, this guide is for you. We’ll explore the feasibility of installing ASHPs in heritage homes, discuss performance factors, and offer actionable advice for optimising these systems in older buildings.
We’ll also highlight savings potential, compliance with EPC regulations, and how ASHPs can improve comfort and property value.
Are Older Homes Suitable for Air Source Heat Pumps?
Older homes present unique challenges when it comes to energy efficiency and modern heating systems. However, with the right upgrades and considerations, even heritage or pre-1980s homes can benefit from ASHP technology.
If you live in Newcastle or the North East and are looking for ASHP technology for your older home, you can get a free online air source heat pump installation quotation from Future Heat to upgrade your property.
What Makes Older Homes Challenging?
Older homes often lack modern insulation, have single-glazed windows, and feature high ceilings or solid brick walls. These factors can lead to heat loss, which challenges the performance of heat pumps that work best in well-insulated environments.
Can These Challenges Be Overcome?
Yes, with the right preparation:
1. Insulation Upgrades
Improving insulation is critical. Options include:
- Cavity wall insulation (if applicable)
- Loft insulation (270mm recommended)
- Draught-proofing doors and windows
- Secondary glazing
2. Upgrading Radiators or Switching to Underfloor Heating
ASHPs run at lower temperatures than gas boilers. Larger radiators or underfloor heating can help compensate and ensure rooms stay warm.
3. Smart Controls for Zoning
Using smart thermostats allows you to create heating zones and reduce waste.
What Are the Benefits of ASHPs in Older Properties?
Understanding the tangible advantages of ASHPs can help property owners make informed investment decisions. Let’s explore why heat pumps are a valuable upgrade, even for homes built before modern energy standards.
Lower Heating Bills
Especially when replacing electric or oil heating, ASHPs offer substantial savings.
Improved EPC Ratings
Essential for landlords looking to meet the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Helps homeowners and businesses meet sustainability targets and access government incentives.
Future-Proofing Against Gas Boiler Phase-Out
With new gas boilers set to be banned in new builds by 2025, retrofitting with ASHPs prepares older homes for the future.
Browse our selection of air source heat pumps to discover the ideal match for your home and take the first step toward cleaner, more affordable heating.
What Government Grants and Incentives Are Available for Air Source Heat Pumps?
The UK government supports the transition to low-carbon heating through a range of financial incentives. These grants can significantly reduce upfront costs for both homeowners and landlords.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
- Offers up to £7,500 towards the cost of an ASHP.
- Available to homeowners and landlords across England and Wales.
- The property must have a valid EPC with no outstanding loft or cavity wall insulation recommendations.
Find out more on GOV.UK
VAT Relief
ASHP installations benefit from 0% VAT on energy-saving materials until 2027.
Renewable Heat Incentive (Legacy Scheme)
Closed to new applicants, but existing participants still receive payments.
How Do ASHPs Affect Property Value and Lettings?
Energy efficiency is becoming a critical factor in property valuation, tenant attraction, and regulatory compliance. Here’s how ASHPs influence each of these elements.
Homeowners
Properties with renewable systems and better EPC ratings attract higher sale prices and energy-conscious buyers.
Landlords
Energy-efficient homes appeal to tenants and ensure compliance with MEES. From 2025, all rental properties may require a minimum EPC rating of C.
Commercial Properties
Businesses benefit from reduced energy bills and improved ESG credentials, which are increasingly important to investors and clients.
What Should You Consider Before Installing an ASHP?
Before committing to an ASHP system, evaluate your property’s current condition and heating needs. This ensures a smooth installation and optimal long-term performance.
You should also consider the cost of air source heat pumps, including any other expenses that are associated with older homes, as you can then determine if they are worth fitting in your home.
Is Your Property Insulated?
Assess and upgrade insulation before installation.
Do You Have Outdoor Space?
A small garden, driveway, or courtyard is usually sufficient for the external unit.
Can Your Current Radiators Cope?
Larger radiators or underfloor heating may be required.
Planning Permission
Generally not required, but listed buildings and conservation areas may have restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, but additional considerations apply. Listed buildings often require planning permission before external units are installed. You may also face limitations on changes to windows, walls, or insulation. A heritage consultant or local planning officer can advise on what’s allowed, and some retrofits can be achieved with minimal visual impact.
Air source heat pumps can still work in homes with single glazing, but they’ll be less efficient. Heat loss through older windows can increase energy usage and reduce performance. If full double glazing isn’t possible, such as in conservation areas, secondary glazing is a viable alternative to retain more heat.
Modern ASHP units are relatively quiet, typically ranging between 40–60 decibels, comparable to a fridge. However, older homes with thinner walls or single-glazed windows may transmit more noise from the heat pumps. Positioning the unit away from bedrooms and installing acoustic barriers can help.
Yes, this is called a hybrid system. Some older properties benefit from using a gas or oil boiler as backup during colder months. The heat pump handles the majority of heating, improving efficiency, while the boiler activates only when necessary. This setup can ease the transition for homes that aren’t fully upgraded for heat pump-only use.
Not always. While underfloor heating works well with heat pumps, older properties can achieve sufficient warmth with appropriately sized radiators. The key is to ensure heat emitters are compatible with the lower water temperatures produced by ASHPs.
Our Verdict
Air source heat pumps can be a highly effective heating solution for older homes when combined with the right energy efficiency upgrades. From improving insulation and upgrading radiators to accessing government grants, property owners have many ways to make these systems work efficiently in pre-modern buildings.
For homeowners, the benefits include lower energy bills, greater comfort, and higher property value. Landlords gain from improved EPC ratings and compliance with regulatory standards, while commercial property owners can significantly boost sustainability credentials.
Making the switch to renewable heating is not just a smart financial move—it’s a long-term investment in energy security and climate responsibility.
Myles Robinson is a seasoned expert in the boiler and home improvement industry, with over a decade of experience. He is deeply committed to environmental sustainability, actively promoting energy-efficient heating solutions to help households reduce their carbon footprint. By combining industry expertise with a dedication to environmental responsibility, Myles continues to lead efforts in transforming home heating practices towards a more sustainable future.
