The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a UK government grant that provides up to £7,500 towards the installation of an air source or ground source heat pump. It is available to homeowners and owners of small commercial properties in England and Wales. The grant is paid directly to the installer and reduces the amount you pay. You must use an MCS-certified installer and your property must have suitable insulation. The scheme runs until 2028 but funding is limited.

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) extract heat from outside air. They are cheaper to install (£6,000–£14,000) and suitable for most properties. Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) draw heat from the ground via underground loops. They are more efficient (higher CoP) but require significant outdoor space and cost £14,000–£30,000+. For most UK homes, an ASHP is the more practical choice. GSHPs suit rural properties with land.

Heat pump running costs depend on property insulation, system efficiency, and electricity prices. A well-insulated property running a modern ASHP could heat a typical 3-bedroom home for £1,200–£2,000 per year in electricity. Compare this to £1,500–£2,500 for gas central heating. Running costs can be reduced by pairing a heat pump with solar panels and/or a battery storage system.

Yes. Modern air source heat pumps operate effectively at temperatures well below freezing. As outdoor temperature falls, heat pump efficiency (Coefficient of Performance) reduces, but they continue to extract heat from cold air. Ground source heat pumps are largely unaffected by air temperature since they draw heat from underground where temperature is more stable (around 10–12°C year-round).

Heat pumps work most efficiently at lower water temperatures (35–45°C) compared to gas boilers (60–70°C). This means radiators may need to be larger to emit the same heat. Underfloor heating is ideal. In a well-insulated modern home, existing radiators may be adequate if sized for the heat pump flow temperature. Your installer should assess radiator suitability as part of a heat loss survey.

Heat pumps require less maintenance than gas boilers. Annual servicing by a qualified engineer is recommended. Keep filters clean (often homeowner task, monthly in dusty conditions). Check condensate drains are clear. Ground source systems may require periodic checks of the ground loop. A well-maintained heat pump has a lifespan of 20–25 years, significantly longer than a gas boiler.