How much does an air source heat pump cost in the UK?
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Post a job — we'll find you an engineer →Heat pump installation must be carried out by an MCS-certified installer to qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant.
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An air source heat pump (ASHP) installation costs £8,000–£15,000 before any grant. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) offers a £7,500 grant, bringing the net cost to £500–£7,500 for most homes. The grant is applied by the MCS-certified installer — you do not claim it yourself.
System size depends on your home's heat loss. A well-insulated 3-bedroom semi typically needs a 7–9kW unit. A larger or poorly insulated home may need 12–15kW. Oversizing wastes money; undersizing results in the system struggling in cold weather.
Heat pumps work best with underfloor heating or large radiators that operate at lower flow temperatures (45–50°C rather than the 70–80°C of a traditional boiler). If you have standard radiators, they may need upsizing — add £500–£2,000 for radiator upgrades, depending on how many need changing.
A hot water cylinder is required with an ASHP — unlike a combi boiler, heat pumps cannot heat water on demand. A heat pump-compatible cylinder (with a large coil) costs £500–£1,200 fitted. If you don't already have a cylinder, factor this in.
Running costs: heat pumps are typically 2.5–4x more efficient than gas boilers (they produce 2.5–4 units of heat for every 1 unit of electricity consumed). However, electricity costs more per unit than gas — the economics depend heavily on your electricity and gas tariff. With the current price cap, most homes see modest savings versus a well-maintained gas boiler.
Is my home suitable? Heat pumps work in most UK homes, but perform best with good insulation (at least loft insulation and cavity wall fill) and enough outdoor space for the external unit. A poorly insulated home will work harder in cold weather, reducing efficiency.
Always get quotes from at least two MCS-certified installers. Check installer credentials at mcscertified.com.
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need planning permission for an air source heat pump?
In most cases, no — ASHP installation is permitted development in England, Scotland, and Wales, provided the unit meets certain size and noise requirements and is not on a listed building or in a conservation area. Always check with your installer and local planning authority if unsure.