Air Source Heat Pumps for Old Properties

In order for any property to benefit fully from a heating system (of any variety, gas boiler or residential heat pump included), it should be as insulated as possible to ensure all heat is kept inside. Air source heat pumps are no different, and so insulation is something we would always consider when discussing installing a heat pump for you. Up until May 2024, in order to get the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant for a new air source heat pump, you were required to ensure your insulation met the requirements outlined in your properties EPC rating with no advisories to improve. This has been a blocker for some customers with older properties who are unable to improve their insulation and therefore couldn’t benefit from the grant.

As of 1st May 2024, this is no longer the case as the requirement is being lifted from the criteria. If you’ve previously been rejected for the grant, now is a great time to reapply, you could receive a grant of up to £7,500!

Air source heat pumps work by producing a steady flow of warmth through your radiators. This is the same as gas systems, though typically the heat from a gas system is hotter for shorter periods. Similar to comparing a hot oven to a slow cooker; both will produce the same cooked meal in the end. In some older houses, larger radiators may be required to ensure adequate heating and efficiency from your air source heat pump depending on the size and metal type of your current radiators, and the size of your rooms.

While assessing your property, we will be able to let you know if your radiators should be updated, though this isn’t a requirement and your new heat pump system will still work well until you’re able to make the switch. Many customers choose to wait a while before upgrading their radiators to reduce installation costs, and still benefit from their air source heat pump in the meantime. While thinking about your upgrade, if you decide to go ahead with it, consider aluminium radiators as they are always more efficient for any heating system.

As an alternative to larger radiators, air source heat pumps work really well with underfloor heating systems. Underfloor heating works like a huge radiator made from pipes under your flooring, producing heat at a lower temperature but covering your whole room.

They don’t require much maintenance at all, especially compared to a gas boiler that should be serviced once per year. They have long lifespans (25 years +) and will need services every few years.

You can read more about how air source heat pumps work in our guide, How do air source heat pumps work?

For homeowners looking to update a residential heating system, the Governments Boiler Upgrade Scheme can cover up to £7,500 of the cost. Air source heat pumps generally cost between £8,500 and £12,000 so the grant offers a significant discount. It is offered by the government and does not need to be repaid. You can find out more on the gov.uk website page.

Commercial or industrial heat pump installations can also benefit from support with the cost, though the process is different. Grants and loans are often at the discretion of local councils, though there are some useful nationwide schemes. You can find out more using this funding finder on the gov.uk website.