Best Heat Pumps in the UK & Why Brits Are Rushing to Get Them

A Guide to Heat Pumps in 2025 UK

Heat pumps have become a central part of renewable energy heating systems across the UK. They work by shifting heat from one place to another, rather than burning fuel to generate warmth. This makes them energy-efficient and a strong option for households looking to cut carbon output while keeping running costs under control.

Modern systems include both air source heat pumps (ASHPs) and ground source heat pumps (GSHPs). Air source units extract heat from the outside air, while ground source versions draw energy from the soil. Both types can provide heating and hot water, and can also be paired with underfloor heating or radiators.

Although heat pumps use electricity, they can deliver more heat energy than the power they consume. This efficiency is why many people in 2025 are asking which is the best heat pump for their property. Popular names such as Vaillant, Viessmann, and Mitsubishi are often highlighted among the best heat pumps in the UK.

Below is a simple comparison of key features:

Check Local Installation Costs

Before deciding which heat pump is the best for a home, it’s important to review installation costs. Prices vary depending on property size, insulation, and whether the system is replacing an old boiler. On average, an air source model can cost between £7,000 and £14,000 in 2025, according to UK heat pump cost guides.

Homeowners can request free quotes from trusted professionals in their area. Comparing multiple installers helps identify fair pricing and ensures the system is fitted to meet specific heating needs. Many companies now offer quick online tools where users enter a postcode to view tailored options.

This approach allows households to balance budget, efficiency, and comfort when choosing the best heat pump UK suppliers can provide.

What types of heat pumps are available?

Beginning with air-source heat pumps

Air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) are the most common systems used in homes across the UK. They draw warmth from the outside air, even when temperatures are low, and transfer it indoors. Once the heat is captured, it is compressed and upgraded to a higher temperature before being circulated through the property.

There are several variations of ASHPs, each designed for different needs:

• Air-to-air heat pumps – These systems deliver warm air directly into rooms through fans. They are often used where ductwork is not practical.

• Air-to-water heat pumps – These connect to central heating and hot water systems, making them suitable for radiators, underfloor heating, and hot water tanks.

• Ductless mini-split heat pumps – Compact units that provide heating and cooling to individual rooms without the need for ducts.

A simple comparison of the main types is shown below:

ASHPs are often highlighted as one of the most practical renewable heating options in the UK. They are widely recommended due to their flexibility and relatively straightforward installation compared to ground or water systems.

When looking for the best air source heat pumps in the UK, homeowners should consider property size, insulation levels, and whether they need heating only or a system that can also provide cooling. The best air source heat pumps usually balance efficiency, upfront cost, and compatibility with existing heating systems.

These systems can also be scaled for both small domestic homes and larger commercial buildings, making them a versatile choice across different property types.

Air-to-air heat pumps UK

Air-to-air heat pumps use outside air to provide heating and cooling inside a property. They work in a similar way to air conditioning systems, making them a flexible option for year-round comfort. While they do not produce hot water, they remain one of the most affordable heat pump types available in the UK, often costing between £2,500 and £5,000 depending on design and installation needs.

Unlike air-to-water systems, these units are not eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), as they cannot replace a traditional boiler for central heating and hot water. However, their lower upfront cost and ability to provide both heating and cooling make them attractive for households looking for efficient climate control.

When choosing the best air to air heat pump UK homeowners often compare models based on efficiency, noise levels, and ease of installation. Many of the best air-to-air heat pump UK options also double as cooling systems, helping to reduce the need for separate air conditioning.

How the system operates

The way these pumps function can be broken down into clear steps:

1. Air intake – Outdoor air is drawn into the system and passed over a refrigerant.

2. Compression – The refrigerant is compressed, which raises its temperature.

3. Heat transfer – The hot refrigerant, now in gaseous form, moves through a heat exchanger.

4. Warm air delivery – Heat is released and circulated indoors through a network of vents.

5. Cycle reset – The refrigerant cools, returns to liquid form, and the cycle begins again.

This process allows the best air heat pump systems to provide steady indoor temperatures while keeping energy use lower than traditional electric heating.

Ductless mini-split heat pumps in the UK

Ductless mini-split heat pumps are compact air-to-air systems designed to control the temperature of a single room. They operate with just two main parts: an outdoor compressor and an indoor unit. Because they do not rely on ductwork, they are often used in properties where installing a full central system would be disruptive or impractical.

These systems work in the same way as larger heat pumps, transferring heat between indoors and outdoors, but on a smaller scale. They do require a drain for condensation, and their appearance can sometimes be considered less appealing in residential settings. For this reason, they are often chosen for commercial premises where function is valued over aesthetics.

Key points at a glance:

• Suitable for single-room heating or cooling

• No ductwork required

• Outdoor and indoor unit combination

• Needs a condensation drain

• Limited to space heating and cooling (no hot water)

Cost guide for installation in the UK:

It should be noted that mini-splits are not eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, as they do not provide hot water. Despite this, they remain a practical choice for targeted comfort in both homes and workplaces.

Air-to-water heat pumps UK

Air-to-water heat pumps work by drawing warmth from the outdoor air and transferring it into a water-based system inside the home. Instead of pushing heated air through ducts like air-to-air models, these systems circulate hot water through radiators, underfloor heating, or storage tanks. This makes them feel more familiar to households used to gas or oil boilers, as the distribution method is much the same.

The main difference is how the heat is produced. Traditional boilers burn fuel to create high levels of heat quickly, but an air-to-water heat pump does not burn anything at all. It uses electricity to capture and upgrade natural heat energy from the air outside. As a result, there are no direct emissions from the system itself.

Another key factor is efficiency, often measured by the Coefficient of Performance (COP). A gas boiler might generate intense heat in a short time, but a heat pump is designed to keep a steady, lower temperature over long periods. This approach can be more energy efficient, especially in a well-insulated property where warmth is retained.

For the system to perform at its best, the building should reduce heat loss as much as possible. Homes with poor insulation or draughts may struggle to maintain efficiency, as the pump has to work harder when the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures is too great. In well-prepared homes, however, they provide consistent comfort without the sudden peaks and drops associated with combustion heating.

Key points to consider:

• Works best in well-insulated homes

• Provides steady, lower-level heat rather than bursts of high heat

• No combustion, no fuel storage, and no direct emissions

• Relies on electricity but uses it efficiently to move natural heat

Installation and costs

The cost of fitting an air-to-water system varies depending on the condition of the existing heating set-up. In some cases, existing pipes and radiators can be reused, but many homes need upgrades. Heat pumps usually require 15mm pipework, so properties with micro-bore systems often face replacement costs of around £4,000.

Radiators may also need to be larger or more numerous to distribute heat effectively. On top of this, insulation improvements are often recommended to make sure the system runs efficiently.

Typical price range for installation:

Although the upfront cost is significant, financial support is available. The Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) can reduce the bill by up to £7,500, making the system more affordable for many households.

Suitability

Air-to-water heat pumps are often best suited for homes looking for a long-term, low-carbon heating solution. They integrate well with underfloor heating and modern radiator systems, and they are particularly effective in homes that already meet good insulation standards. While they may not deliver the same instant high heat as a gas or oil boiler, they provide consistent warmth and can lower running costs when used correctly.

By combining efficiency with government incentives, these systems are becoming a practical option for many UK households seeking to modernise their heating.

Water source heat pumps UK

Water-based heat pumps use energy stored in natural or man-made water bodies to provide heating and hot water. Unlike systems that draw heat from the air, these units rely on the stable thermal properties of water, which tends to hold warmth more consistently. This makes them more efficient in many cases, but it also means they can only be installed where a reliable water supply is available.

A steady body of water such as a pond, river, canal, or reservoir is usually required. If the water level drops or dries out, the system cannot operate effectively. Because of this, these heat pumps are more location-specific than air or ground models. In addition, installation may involve planning approval and regulatory checks, which can add time and cost to the process.

Water-based systems are typically divided into two main categories: water-to-air and water-to-water. While both rely on submerged pipework or direct water access, they deliver heat differently. Below is a closer look at one of the most common options.

Water-to-water heat pump

A water-to-water unit transfers heat from the water into a liquid circuit, which then feeds a home’s central heating system. The design is similar to an air-to-water pump, but instead of drawing warmth from the air, the system relies on submerged pipes that collect energy from the water. Because water retains heat more effectively than air, these systems often achieve a higher Coefficient of Performance (COP), meaning they can deliver more heat per unit of electricity used.

Typical features include:

• Submerged pipe networks in a nearby water body

• Connection to radiators, underfloor heating, or hot water tanks

• Higher efficiency compared to air-based units in many climates

• Longer life expectancy when properly maintained

Estimated costs in the UK:

The cost of a water-to-water system usually falls between that of an air-to-water and a ground source installation. If boreholes are not required, the price tends to stay closer to the lower end of the range.

Government support:

In the UK, water-to-water heat pumps may qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). This grant can reduce upfront costs by up to £7,500, making the system more affordable for homeowners who meet the eligibility requirements.

Key advantages:

1. Consistent efficiency due to stable water temperatures.

2. Potential for lower running costs compared to air-based systems.

3. Long system lifespan, often exceeding 20 years with correct care.

Main limitations:

• Dependence on a permanent and accessible water body.

• Planning approval may be required.

• Installation can be complex in urban or restricted areas.

By using water as the heat source, these systems can provide reliable and efficient heating. However, their suitability depends heavily on property location and access to a secure water supply.

Hybrid and high temperature heat pumps in the UK

Hybrid and high temperature heat pumps provide an alternative for households that need stronger heating performance or face challenges with insulation. These systems are designed to deliver higher flow temperatures, making them more comparable to traditional gas boilers. This means they can often work with existing radiators, avoiding the need for a full home refit.

Hybrid heat pumps combine two technologies:

• Primary unit: an electric heat pump that handles most of the heating demand.

• Secondary unit: usually a gas boiler that supports the pump during colder months or when higher temperatures are required.

This dual setup allows the system to switch between energy sources depending on efficiency and demand. In practice, the heat pump does the bulk of the work, while the boiler acts as a backup. This can be useful for homes in colder regions or for older buildings where insulation upgrades are limited.

Cost and installation
Hybrid systems are more complex than standard air-to-water heat pumps, which means installation costs are higher. Homeowners in the UK can expect to pay between £7,000 and £13,000 depending on the size of the property and the chosen configuration. Running costs are usually similar to a standard heat pump, but emissions are generally lower than relying on a gas boiler alone.

One drawback is that hybrid units are still classed as fossil fuel heating because of the boiler component. As a result, they are not eligible for the Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which can affect affordability for some households.

Ground Source Heat Pumps UK

Ground source heat pumps capture stored warmth from beneath the earth’s surface and transfer it into a property for heating and hot water. These systems rely on stable underground temperatures, which remain more consistent than air temperatures throughout the year. There are two main types of ground-based systems available, each designed for different property layouts and site conditions.

Shallow trench ground loop systems

This type of system is most effective for homes with large outdoor areas. It makes use of long pipes arranged in a network, often referred to as a loop or matrix, which are buried at a shallow depth of about one metre. The layout can be installed under lawns, gardens, or other open ground, making it suitable for rural homes with land to spare.

The buried pipes contain a liquid mixture, typically water blended with antifreeze, which absorbs the natural warmth stored in the soil. This fluid then passes through the heat pump unit indoors, where the energy is upgraded to a higher temperature for use in radiators, underfloor heating, or hot water cylinders.

Key benefits of shallow trench systems:

• Lower installation cost compared to vertical boreholes

• Straightforward installation when land is available

• Stable performance due to consistent ground temperature

Typical requirements:

• A sizeable garden or field area

• Soil that allows easy excavation

• Space free from large tree roots or underground obstructions

Because the ground temperature changes very little across the seasons, this type of system tends to provide steady efficiency. However, the large land requirement can make it impractical for many properties, especially in built-up areas.

Vertical borehole loop systems

For properties without enough outdoor space, a vertical borehole design can be installed. Instead of spreading pipes across a wide area, this method uses drilling equipment to create deep shafts in the ground. These boreholes can extend to depths of 100 metres or more, with pipes lowered into each shaft to capture heat from the surrounding earth.

The principle is the same as the shallow trench system: a fluid circulates through the pipes, absorbs heat, and transfers it to the pump unit indoors. The difference lies in the installation method and the amount of land required. Because the system goes downwards rather than outwards, it suits locations where gardens or fields are limited.

Advantages of vertical borehole systems:

• Requires minimal ground space

• Can be installed in urban or restricted plots

• Accesses deeper, more stable temperatures

Challenges to consider:

• Higher drilling costs compared to shallow trenches

• Specialist equipment needed for installation

• Longer installation time

In many cases, several boreholes are required to provide enough energy for a whole property. A typical system may need three boreholes, which can significantly increase the overall cost. However, for homes in cities or areas where land is scarce, this design often proves to be the only practical option.

Both shallow trench and vertical borehole systems work on the same principle and deliver similar results in terms of heating performance. The main differences lie in the installation method, space requirements, and upfront cost. Homeowners may also be able to reduce expenses through government incentives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which can contribute up to £7,500 towards installation costs.

By comparing the land available, budget, and property needs, households can decide whether a shallow ground loop or a vertical borehole system is the more suitable choice.

Is a heat pump suitable for my property UK?

Home insulation requirements

A heat pump produces steady, lower-temperature heat rather than short bursts of high heat. Because of this, a house needs to hold on to warmth effectively. Poor insulation can cause the system to work harder, which increases running costs and reduces efficiency.

Good insulation should include:

• Loft or roof insulation to stop heat escaping upwards.

• Cavity wall insulation where possible, or internal/external wall insulation if the walls are solid.

• Double or triple glazing to reduce draughts and heat loss through windows.

It can be useful to check for hidden leaks or cold spots with a thermal camera. Small gaps around doors, windows, or floors can make a big difference to performance.

The government no longer requires homes to meet strict insulation standards to access support schemes, but guidance still recommends that properties are insulated before fitting a heat pump. Without this, the system may not provide the comfort expected.

A well-insulated property allows a heat pump to maintain a consistent indoor temperature without needing to overwork.

Distance from neighbouring homes

Outdoor heat pump units must follow planning rules that set minimum distances from property boundaries. These rules help reduce noise disturbance and ensure safe installation.

• In England and Scotland, air source heat pumps must be placed at least 1 metre from the neighbour’s boundary.

• In Wales, the minimum distance is 2 metres.

The outdoor unit also needs a flat wall or ground space with airflow around it. Smaller, quieter units are easier to position, while larger systems may require more planning.

Other factors to consider:

1. Permissions – Some properties, especially listed buildings or those in conservation areas, may need planning approval.

2. Noise levels – Although modern units are quieter, they still produce a low hum. Placement should take this into account.

3. Access for maintenance – The unit should be easy to reach for servicing.

Careful positioning ensures compliance with regulations and avoids disputes with neighbours.

Benefits of replacing an LPG or oil boiler

Many homes in rural areas rely on LPG or oil boilers. Switching to a heat pump can be particularly effective in these cases.

• Lower operating temperature: Heat pumps work best with larger pipes and radiators that allow heat to circulate at lower water temperatures. This is similar to how LPG and oil systems operate, making the transition easier.

• Efficiency improvements: While existing radiators may still function, upgrading to larger or more efficient models can improve performance.

• Fuel savings: Heat pumps remove the need for fuel storage tanks and regular deliveries, which can be costly and inconvenient.

Comparison of systems:

Heat pumps can replace almost any boiler type, but properties with LPG or oil systems often see the smoothest transition due to existing infrastructure.

Requirements for installing ground source systems

Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) are more complex to install than air source units. They extract heat from the ground using buried pipes and require significant outdoor space or drilling capacity.

Types of ground source systems:

1. Vertical borehole systems

   • Require drilling shafts 70–200 metres deep.

   • Suitable for properties with limited outdoor space.

   • More efficient due to stable underground temperatures.

   • Higher upfront costs due to drilling.

2. Horizontal loop systems

   • Pipes are laid around 1.2 metres below the surface.

   • Best for properties with large gardens or fields.

   • Easier to access for maintenance.

   • Less costly than borehole systems but require more land area.

Cost considerations:

• Borehole drilling can cost around £5,000 per hole, with several often needed for a detached house.

• Horizontal systems are cheaper but require excavation of large areas.

Installation steps:

1. Survey and design – Assess ground conditions and available space.

2. Groundwork – Drill boreholes or dig trenches for pipes.

3. Pipe installation – Lay or insert the ground loop.

4. Connection – Link the ground loop to the indoor heat pump unit.

5. Testing and commissioning – Ensure the system runs efficiently.

Space requirements:

Both systems provide stable heating and cooling, but the choice depends on site conditions and budget.

Indoor requirements:

• Space for the pump, heat exchanger, and control system.

• Pipework may need upgrading to ensure efficient heat transfer.

Timeframe:

• Installation usually takes two to five days for air source units.

• Ground source systems may take longer due to excavation or drilling.

Key points to remember:

• Insulation is critical for performance.

• Regulations control the placement of outdoor units.

• Replacing LPG or oil boilers often provides a straightforward switch.

• Ground source systems require either space for trenches or funds for drilling.

This makes ground source heat pumps more suitable for rural or larger properties, while air source systems are often the more practical choice in built-up areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which heat pump brands are considered the most efficient in the UK?

Several manufacturers are recognised for producing reliable and efficient systems. Brands such as Mitsubishi, Daikin, Vaillant, and Samsung are often highlighted for strong performance and energy savings. Comparing models across these brands helps homeowners match efficiency ratings, noise levels, and system size to their property needs. A detailed comparison of top heat pump brands in the UK can help identify the best option for different households.

How does the price of fitting a heat pump compare with traditional heating?

Air-source heat pumps usually cost between £6,000 and £8,000 to install, while ground-source systems can range from £10,000 to £18,000 depending on the property size and groundworks required. By comparison, a new gas boiler installation is often much lower, typically around £2,000 to £4,000. Although the upfront cost is higher, heat pumps may reduce long-term energy bills and provide better efficiency, according to UK installation cost data.

What financial support is available for heat pump installations in the UK?

The UK government currently offers grants through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). This scheme provides up to £7,500 towards the cost of installing an air-source or ground-source heat pump. Eligibility depends on property type and existing heating systems, and the application is usually managed by the installer.

What upkeep does a heat pump require in a UK property?

Routine checks are simple and usually involve:

• Cleaning or replacing air filters

• Ensuring the outdoor unit is free from leaves and debris

• Checking refrigerant levels and system pressure

• Annual servicing by a qualified engineer

With regular maintenance, air-source units often last 15 years or more, while ground-source systems can operate for over 20 years.

How effective are heat pumps in different UK weather conditions?

Heat pumps can operate efficiently in both mild and colder regions of the UK. Air-source models may lose some efficiency during very low outdoor temperatures, but modern units are designed to work well even in near-freezing conditions. Ground-source systems are less affected by weather changes because they draw heat from the ground, which stays at a more stable temperature.

Do heat pumps provide both heating and cooling in UK homes?

Yes, many modern heat pumps can reverse their operation to provide cooling in summer. This makes them a dual-purpose system, offering both heating and cooling from a single unit. Air-to-air systems are especially effective for cooling, while air-to-water and ground-source models can also provide chilled water for underfloor or fan coil systems.