Air source heat pumps in the UK: what you need to know
An air source heat pump is a low-carbon heating system that takes warmth from the outside air and uses it to heat your radiators, underfloor heating and hot water. It replaces a gas, oil or LPG boiler and, because it moves heat rather than burning fuel, it typically delivers three to four units of heat for every unit of electricity it uses.
How much does an air source heat pump cost?
Most UK homes pay £8,000 to £16,000 for a fully installed system before any grant. The government's Boiler Upgrade Scheme takes £7,500 off that, so a typical three-bedroom home pays roughly £2,500 to £5,500. Heat pumps are also zero-rated for VAT until March 2027. Our cost guide breaks prices down by house size, and our running costs guide shows what a heat pump costs to run per day.
Government grants for heat pumps
The £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme is available to homeowners, landlords and small businesses in England and Wales, with no income test. Scotland has its own Home Energy Scotland grant and loan. See every option in our guide to government grants for heat pumps.
Air source heat pump installation
Installation starts with a heat loss survey by an MCS-certified installer, who sizes the system for your home and plans any radiator or cylinder changes. Fitting usually takes 2 to 4 days. Read what to expect on installation day, or compare the best heat pump brands including Vaillant, Daikin, Mitsubishi and Samsung.
Are heat pumps right for my home?
Most UK houses, from terraces and semis to bungalows and detached homes, can run a heat pump well. You need outside space for the unit, room for a hot water cylinder and reasonable insulation. Homes on oil, LPG or electric storage heaters usually see the biggest savings. Check our suitability checklist or is a heat pump worth it?
Do heat pumps work in winter?
Yes. Modern air source heat pumps work down to around -20°C and are widely used across Scandinavia. A correctly sized system keeps a UK home warm all winter; learn more about heat pumps in cold weather.
Still have questions? Our heat pump FAQs answer the most common ones, the heat pump glossary explains terms like SCOP and MCS, and you can read how GetASHP works.