Is an Air Source Heat Pump expensive to run?

A properly sized and correctly installed Air Source Heat Pump is incredibly cost-effective to run. In fact, it stands out as the most economical heating system when compared to other electric or fossil fuel alternatives. A well-installed Air Source system can generate approximately 4kWh of heat for every 1kWh of electricity it consumes. By dividing the cost of 1kWh of electricity by 4, you can calculate the running cost of the system. Here’s an interesting fact that often goes unnoticed: 100% of the heat energy produced by the Heat Pump is delivered to your property, whereas traditional boilers can lose up to 20% of their heat energy through the flue with the exhaust gases.

How many Solar Panels do I need?

The number of panels needed varies from person to person and property to property. It primarily depends on the size of the area you have available, such as your roof space. Another crucial factor is how much energy you use and when you need it. It’s not as straightforward as saying, “I use 10,000 kWh per year, so just fit a system to meet that.” Keep in mind that panels generate less energy during winter, which might coincide with when you use the most energy. To determine your requirements accurately, take a closer look at your appliances and when you use them. Do you have additional electricity-intensive devices like an electric car or hot tub? Building your solar system around your specific energy needs and considering your lifestyle adjustments can help you maximize the benefits of Solar PV.

How does home battery storage installation work?

Home battery storage installation involves integrating a battery system with your existing energy setup, allowing you to store excess energy for use during peak times.

How Much Does a Heat Pump Cost to Install in the UK?

Switching to a heat pump is one of the most effective ways to lower your energy bills and make your home more sustainable – but how much does it really cost to install one?

At Sustain Heating, we’ve designed and installed hundreds of air source heat pumps across the South West. Below, we explain what you can expect to pay, what affects the total cost, and how government grants can make installation more affordable than you might think.

Typical Heat Pump Installation Costs (2025 Guide)

Installation Type	Typical Cost Range	What’s Included
Retrofit (existing homes)	£5,000 – £15,000	Full design, new hot water cylinder, upgraded radiators or underfloor heating, all pipework and labour
New Build Installations	£3,000 – £8,000	Integrated installation during construction (first/second fix), no retrofit work needed

Prices vary depending on property size, insulation, and chosen brand of equipment.

What Affects the Cost of a Heat Pump?

Several factors influence how much your installation will cost:

Property Size & System Design
Larger homes need more powerful heat pumps, additional pipework, and higher-capacity cylinders.
Radiator or Heating Upgrades
Older systems often require radiator upgrades or underfloor heating for better efficiency.
Equipment Quality & Brand
High-performance brands like Vaillant, Samsung, or Mitsubishi offer better long-term reliability and warranties.
Installer Accreditation
Always choose an MCS-accredited installer. Non-accredited installations won’t qualify for grants or manufacturer warranties.

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (£7,500 Grant)

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a government initiative designed to help homeowners replace fossil fuel systems with renewable heating.

Provides £7,500 towards the cost of an air or ground source heat pump.
Claimed by your installer directly – you receive the discount automatically on your invoice.
Managed by Ofgem and only available for installations completed by MCS-accredited companies.

With this support, many homeowners see their total installation cost reduced from £12,000 to around £4,500 – £6,000.

What’s Included in a Sustain Heating Installation

Professional Heat Loss Survey – We calculate exactly how much heat your home loses, ensuring your system is perfectly sized.
Accredited Installation – MCS, NICEIC, and TrustMark approved engineers for guaranteed quality.
Manufacturer & Workmanship Warranties – Coverage ranging from 2–10 years, registered for you.
Aftercare & Servicing – We offer ongoing maintenance to keep your system efficient for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Installing a heat pump is a long-term investment that can save you money and dramatically reduce your carbon footprint.
With the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme, the upfront cost is more affordable than ever – especially when installed by an accredited specialist like Sustain Heating.