With energy prices surging and the UK’s net-zero targets looming, more homeowners and landlords are asking: “Is my house suitable for a heat pump?” Heat pumps are being championed as a cornerstone of the UK’s green energy revolution, offering high efficiency, long-term cost savings, and access to government grants..
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to determine if your home is suitable for a heat pump. We’ll also answer key questions from a UK perspective, helping you make an informed, confident decision.
Is My House Suitable for a Heat Pump?
Determining if your house is suitable for a heat pump depends on several property-specific factors such as insulation, available outdoor space, and the current heating system.
While most UK homes can be adapted for heat pump installation, some may require upgrades to perform efficiently. A professional heat loss assessment can help confirm suitability and guide necessary improvements.
What Factors Determine If Your Home Is Suitable for a Heat Pump?
Not every property is immediately heat pump-ready. Here’s what matters:
1. Insulation Levels
Heat pumps work best in well-insulated buildings. Good insulation reduces heat loss, allowing the pump to operate efficiently at lower temperatures.
- Check EPC rating: Aim for EPC band C or above. Lower ratings mean more upgrades will be needed.
- Solid walls vs. cavity walls: Cavity wall homes are easier and cheaper to insulate.
2. Existing Heating System
- Wet central heating system in place? If your home already uses radiators or underfloor heating, retrofitting is more straightforward.
- High temperature vs. low temperature: Heat pumps operate at lower temperatures than gas boilers, so radiators may need to be upsized.
3. Available Outdoor Space
Air source units need outdoor wall space with good airflow. Ground source systems require land for trenching or boreholes. Outdoor air source units do generate some noise, which is important to consider for placement near windows or shared walls. Read our guide on how noisy air source heat pumps really are and what you can do to minimise disruption.
Many people often overlook a crucial factor: determining the right size of air source heat pump needed for their home. Choosing the right size is crucial for efficiency and comfort, yet it’s something most homeowners aren’t familiar with.
4. Electricity Supply
Older properties with outdated electrics may need an upgrade to support a heat pump’s power requirements.
Types of Heat Pumps for Homes in the UK
In the UK, the two most common types of domestic heat pumps are air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps. Each has unique advantages and installation requirements:
- Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs)
These are the most widely used in UK homes due to their relatively lower installation cost and ease of setup. They extract heat from the outside air, even in cold weather and use it to warm your home and hot water. ASHPs require outdoor space for a unit and work most efficiently in well-insulated properties.
Read our guide to the best air source heat pumps to help you choose the most reliable and efficient model for your needs.
- Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs)
GSHPs extract heat from the ground using buried pipes. They are more efficient than ASHPs in terms of long-term energy savings, but they require significant garden or land space for the pipework. Installation costs are higher, but grants under schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can offset this. - Hybrid Heat Pumps
These combine a heat pump with a traditional boiler and are ideal for homes that might not be fully optimized for a standalone system. They allow for flexibility and gradual transition to low-carbon heating.
Understanding which type of heat pump suits your home depends on space availability, budget, insulation levels, and long-term energy goals.
Not sure which system is right for your home? Future Heat is MCS certified and proudly serves Tyne and Wear, Newcastle, and the entire North East. Request your free heat pump installation quote today, and our experts will help you choose the best option for your property.
Is a Heat Pump Suitable for Older Or Period Homes?
Yes, but with caveats. Older properties may need significant insulation upgrades (e.g., loft, wall, and floor insulation). Air-tightness testing and heat loss calculations are essential.
If you’re unsure whether an air source heat pump would work in your older or period home, you’re not alone. Many homeowners aren’t aware of the specific considerations involved.
To learn more, check out our detailed blog post: do air source heat pumps work in old houses?. It breaks down everything you need to know.
Can Flats or Rental Properties Use Heat Pumps?
Yes, heat pumps can be installed in flats and rental properties, though installation can be more complex due to planning permissions, space limitations, and shared heating systems. However, with the right configuration and access to grant funding, landlords can make these properties more energy-efficient, improving EPC ratings and long-term tenant satisfaction.
What should landlords consider when installing heat pumps?
Landlords are under increasing pressure to improve EPC ratings and reduce carbon emissions. Heat pumps can help meet regulatory requirements and attract eco-conscious tenants.
Key Considerations:
- Shared heating systems: Ideal for HMOs or blocks of flats.
- Planning permissions: Required in some conservation areas or multi-dwelling units.
- Funding schemes: Landlords may qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme or ECO4.
Tip: Pair with smart thermostats to give tenants individual control over heating.
What Upgrades Might Be Needed Before Heat Pump Installation?
Before fitting a heat pump, some buildings may need improvements to maximise system performance and efficiency. Common upgrades include insulation enhancements, radiator replacements, hot water cylinder installations, and possibly electrical rewiring.
These modifications help ensure the heat pump operates cost-effectively and meets comfort expectations.
How do I make my home heat pump-ready?
Before installing a heat pump, a qualified installer will carry out a heat loss survey. Based on the results, they may recommend:
- Insulation upgrades: Roof, cavity walls, or floor insulation.
- Radiator replacements: Larger surface area radiators or underfloor heating.
- Hot water cylinder: Required for storing heated water in most systems.
- Electrical upgrades: Fuse board improvements or wiring for smart controls.
Are There Government Grants for Heat Pumps in the UK?
Yes, the UK Government offers several financial incentives to help with the upfront costs of heat pump installations. Schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and ECO4 are designed to encourage low-carbon heating adoption among homeowners and landlords, making the switch to heat pumps more accessible and financially viable.
Check out our full guide to air source heat pump costs. It covers everything from installation to maintenance and what you can expect to pay to run one.
What financial support is available?
The UK Government is incentivising heat pump adoption through several schemes:
- Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS): Up to £7,500 off the cost of installation for homeowners and landlords.
- ECO4 Scheme: For low-income or fuel-poor households.
- Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): Get paid for surplus electricity if your heat pump is paired with solar PV.
What Are the Long-Term Benefits of Installing a Heat Pump?
Installing a heat pump brings long-term advantages beyond just lower heating bills. From increasing your property’s value to future-proofing against rising fossil fuel costs and regulatory changes, the benefits extend to financial, environmental, and comfort-related gains, especially when combined with renewable electricity sources.
Each system comes with its own pros and cons, depending on your home’s setup and heating needs. Take a look at the pros and cons of air source heat pumps to decide if they’re the right fit for your home.
Are heat pumps worth it in the UK climate?
Absolutely. While upfront costs are higher, the long-term benefits are substantial:
- Lower energy bills: Heat pumps reduce electricity consumption by up to 60%.
- Carbon reduction: Zero on-site emissions when powered by renewable electricity.
- Future-proofing: Meet stricter EPC and MEES regulations ahead of deadlines.
- Increased property value: Especially important for rental and resale potential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A heat pump can work in a draughty house, but it won’t be efficient. You’ll likely need to improve insulation and seal gaps to maximise performance and lower running costs.
In most cases, no—air source heat pumps fall under permitted development. However, flats, listed buildings, and conservation areas may require planning approval.
Modern air source heat pumps are quiet, typically 40–60 dB, about the volume of a dishwasher. Proper installation and placement reduce noise impact.
No, but underfloor heating is very efficient with heat pumps. If you don’t have it, larger or more efficient radiators can still provide effective heating.
In most cases, yes, you will need a hot water tank (also known as a cylinder) when installing a heat pump, particularly with an air source or ground source heat pump. This is because heat pumps heat water more slowly than traditional boilers, so a tank is needed to store hot water for use when you need it. A well-insulated cylinder ensures you always have a supply of hot water for showers, baths, and household use. However, some compact systems, like hybrid or high temperature heat pumps, may work without a tank, depending on your property and hot water demand. A qualified installer can assess your needs and advise on the best setup.
Our Verdict
Upgrading to a heat pump is a smart investment for the future, whether you’re a homeowner looking to cut energy bills, a landlord aiming for better EPC ratings, or a commercial property owner pursuing sustainability targets.
While not every building is immediately ready for installation, most can become suitable with manageable upgrades like insulation improvements or radiator enhancements.
Heat pumps reduce electricity bills and help the UK meet its carbon targets. Whether you’re a homeowner cutting energy bills, a landlord improving EPC ratings, or a business aiming for sustainability, heat pumps are a future-ready solution.
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.
