Air source heat pumps are rapidly becoming one of the most popular sustainable heating solutions for homeowners. If you’re considering making the switch, you’re likely asking yourself, ‘How much does an air source heat pump cost?’
From initial installation expenses to potential long-term savings, this guide will walk you through the key financial aspects of investing in this eco-friendly technology.
Understanding the initial costs
The upfront cost of an air source heat pump might seem high at first glance. Prices typically range from £7,000 to £15,000 for installation in a typical three- to four-bedroom home in the UK. Here’s a breakdown of what influences this initial cost:
Type of heat pump
Air-to-air heat pumps (suitable for heating and cooling) are on the lower end of the spectrum, costing between £4,000 and £9,500.
Air-to-water heat pumps, which can integrate with your central heating system and provide hot water, are more expensive, typically falling between £8,000 and £16,500.
Ground source heat pumps, which extract heat from the ground through pipes, tend to have higher installation costs ranging from £11,000 to £26,500.
Overall, the type of heat pump you choose will greatly impact the initial cost of installation. It is important to consider your specific heating and cooling needs when deciding on a type of heat pump for your home.
Size of the system
More extensive homes with greater energy demands will require larger and, therefore, costlier systems.
Additional materials
Necessary upgrades, such as new radiators or underfloor heating systems, may add to your overall costs.
While these initial numbers may appear steep, the long-term benefits and incentives often make air source heat pumps a financially viable option.
Understanding heat pump installation cost factors
Installation costs for air source heat pumps range from £3,500 to £6,000, depending on several variables:
Property size and layout
Larger properties or homes with complex layouts require more extensive pipework, increasing costs.
Infrastructure age
Older properties may require more upgrades, such as the need for heat pump installers to improve insulation or update electrical systems.
Special requirements
Some homes might need custom solutions, such as low-temperature radiators or enhanced underfloor heating. These upgrades can add between £3,600 and £9,000 depending on the scope of the work.
It’s worth noting that installation usually takes two to five days, with labour costs gradually increasing with the complexity of the system.
What about ongoing running costs?
One of the most compelling factors in favour of air source heat pumps is their low ongoing costs compared to traditional heating systems.
1. Electricity consumption
Annual heat pump running costs range from £855 to £1,700, depending on energy demand and property size. While these costs might appear similar or slightly higher than running a gas boiler or oil boiler, in the long term it’s significantly more cost effective to run a heat pump compared to a gas or oil boiler.
2. Maintenance costs and servicing
Plan for £150 to £300 annually for routine maintenance. This includes checks on refrigerant levels, electrical components, and coil cleaning.
3. Potential repairs
If properly maintained, air source heat pumps are durable and typically last around 20 years. Any needed repairs are less frequent and lower cost compared to older boiler systems.
Making it affordable with government heat pump grants and incentives
Thanks to government schemes aimed at reducing carbon emissions, the upfront cost of air source heat pumps can be significantly reduced.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
Homeowners in England and Wales can receive up to £7,500 to offset installation costs. This brings the average cost of a heat pump installation down to around £5,500 to £8,500 for eligible properties.
ECO4 Scheme
Low-income and vulnerable households may qualify for full funding for heat pump installation.
Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan
Scottish homeowners can apply for a grant of up to £7,500, with an additional interest-free loan available.
These initiatives make it much easier for homeowners to affordably adopt sustainable heating solutions.
Long-term savings and property value
Reduced electricity bills
How much does a heat pump save you? Well, according to a recent study by energy companies, air source heat pump owners could save up to £290 annually on energy bills. Homes with old electric storage heaters or LPG boilers could save over £1,000 annually.
Increased property value
Energy-efficient homes are increasingly sought after in the housing market. An energy-efficient heating system can boost your home’s market value and make it more appealing to eco-conscious buyers.
Shorter ROI timeline with grants
While the average payback period is around 14 years, government grants significantly shorten this timeline, making air source heat pumps an excellent long-term investment.
Why an air source heat pump is worth the cost
If you’ve been contemplating, “Is an air source heat pump worth it?”, the answer lies in its combination of lower environmental impact, energy efficiency, and economic viability.
You’ll enjoy benefits like:
- Reduced carbon footprint
- Lower reliance on fossil fuels
- Steady energy bills unaffected by fluctuating gas prices
- Potential eligibility for grants and tax relief initiatives
With proper planning and support, an air source heat pump can quickly become one of the smartest upgrades for your home.
Get expert guidance from AW Heat Pump Services
Investing in an air source heat pump is a significant decision, but you don’t have to make it alone.
At AW Heat Pump Services, we have 30 years of experience and specialise in helping homeowners transition to sustainable heating solutions seamlessly. Contact us today for personalised advice and a free quote!