Your essential guide to heat pumps

So, what exactly is a heat pump?

Imagine a heating system that doesn’t burn fuel but instead draws warmth from the air, ground, or even nearby water sources to cosy up your home! Heat pumps run on electricity and work efficiently even on cold days, down to temperatures as low as -20°C. Using advanced refrigerant and compressor technology, heat pumps amplify heat from the environment to a level that keeps your indoor space perfectly warm, regardless of outdoor temperatures.

There are two main types of heat pumps to consider:

• Air source heat pumps: These are the most popular, pulling warmth from the air outside to heat water for radiators, underfloor systems, and taps.

• Ground source heat pumps: Ideal for those with more outdoor space, they extract heat directly from the ground.

Why make the switch to a heat pump?

Heating with fossil fuels like gas and oil contributes to a staggering 17% of the UK’s total emissions, so making the switch to a heat pump one of the most impactful changes you can make for the environment. By converting your home heating to an electric-powered heat pump, you’re not only embracing renewable energy but also potentially slashing your heating carbon footprint by up to 70%.

Top reasons to install a heat pump

• Incredible energy efficiency

Heat pumps are 3-4 times more efficient than other heating systems, such as gas boilers, storage heaters or electric radiators. They require electricity to operate, but because they use a fraction of the energy to generate the same warmth, you can see energy savings.

• Lower your heating bills

Using less energy means spending less - especially if you’re currently relying on oil, LPG, or other types of electric heating systems. Even if you’re switching from a gas boiler, which currently benefits from cheaper gas prices, you can still save by exploring heat pump-friendly tariffs or combining your system with solar panels or battery storage.

• Easy access to grants

Now is a great time to consider installing a heat pump, thanks to government support. Homeowners in Wales can apply for a £7,500 grant through the UK Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme. The Welsh Government’s Optimised Retrofit Programme also supports social landlords and local authorities in making social housing energy-efficient through renewable energy systems. And with the Warm Homes Nest scheme, eligible households can get free energy advice and even a suite of home energy efficiency improvements.

• Better indoor air quality for a healthier home

Unlike combustion-based heating systems, heat pumps provide warmth without emitting indoor air pollutants like nitrogen oxides, which are common in gas boilers, wood stoves, and open fires. Choosing a heat pump creates a healthier indoor environment and reduces outdoor air pollution.

How efficient are heat pumps?

Heat pumps heat homes as effectively as traditional boilers. Scandinavia, with its much colder climate, relies heavily on heat pumps. Though radiators heated with heat pumps might feel a touch cooler than gas heating, it’s just as effective, keeping your home comfortable.

Heat pumps can be used on most types of homes. For older properties, adding a small amount of insulation can help optimise efficiency and savings.

Ready to learn more? See a heat pump in action

If you’re curious about how a heat pump feels in a real home, Nesta’s Heat Pump Visit service lets you connect with heat pump owners nearby. Book a visit, chat about their experience, and ask any questions you have - insights you won’t find online.

Heat pump owners: become a host

Already own a heat pump? Share the benefits with others. Become a host through the Heat Pump Visit service and help make a difference by giving others a firsthand look at green home heating. Sign up and be part of a greener, more sustainable future.

Ready to make the change?

Make sure you find a tradesperson who is skilled, trained and competent to carry out the work you need.

Still not sure?

Take a quiz to discover what heat pump options are likely to be best for homes like yours.