Your heat pump installation, step by step

SGS Energy has been installing heat pumps for over 16 years, giving our team extensive experience in designing and installing efficient, reliable heating systems for a wide range of homes.

An air source heat pump’s outdoor unit is typically similar in size to a large air-conditioning unit or a small washing machine. Exact dimensions vary by model, but most units are approximately 800–1,500 mm wide, 600–1,500 mm high and 300–600 mm deep.

The unit also needs sufficient clearance around it so that air can circulate freely and an engineer can access it for servicing. It should be installed in an open, well-ventilated position, away from enclosed spaces and anything that could obstruct the airflow, such as fences, plants or bins.

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Most air source heat pump systems require a hot water cylinder. The exact space needed depends on the cylinder’s capacity and design, but a typical unit is around 600–700 mm wide and 1.3–2 metres tall.

As a general guide, cylinders may range from around 150 litres for a smaller household to 300 litres for a larger household. You'll also need some additional space around the cylinder for pipework, controls and future servicing.

A cylinder can often be installed in an airing cupboard, utility room, garage or other suitable indoor space. During your heat loss survey, your installer will assess your hot water needs, take measurements and recommend the most appropriate cylinder and location.

Air source heat pump radiators are often larger than those used with a traditional boiler because heat pumps typically operate at lower water temperatures.

The exact size required will depend on factors such as your home’s heat loss, insulation and the system’s flow temperature. In many cases, existing radiators may still be suitable, although some may need to be replaced with larger or higher-output models.

A qualified installer will calculate the heating requirements for each room and recommend the right radiator sizes to keep your home comfortable while helping the heat pump run efficiently.

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Most homes can be suitable for an air source heat pump, including older properties, but the system needs to be correctly designed for the building.

An air source heat pump works best in a well-insulated home with appropriately sized radiators or underfloor heating. You'll also need a suitable outdoor location for the unit, with enough space around it for airflow and maintenance access.

Before installation, a qualified installer should assess your home’s insulation, heat loss, existing heating system and electrical supply. They can then confirm whether a heat pump is suitable and recommend any improvements that may help it run efficiently.

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No, air source heat pumps aren't usually noisy when they're correctly sized and installed. Modern air source heat pumps are designed to run quietly, although the outdoor unit will make minimal sound when the fan and compressor are working.

The noise is usually a low hum or fan sound, similar to an air conditioning unit or a fridge. It may be more noticeable in colder weather, when the system has to work harder to heat your home.

How noisy an air source heat pump is depends on the model, where it's installed, and how close it is to windows, doors, or neighbouring properties. A good installer will choose a suitable location for the outdoor unit so it can work efficiently without causing unnecessary noise.

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A well-installed air source heat pump should usually last at least 15 years, and many systems can keep working for around 20 years with regular maintenance. Extended warranties are often available for around 7 to 8 years, although this varies between manufacturers.

To help your air source heat pump last as long as possible, service it in line with the manufacturer’s guidance, which is usually once a year. It’s also worth keeping the outdoor unit clear of leaves, dirt, snow, and other obstructions so air can flow freely through the system.

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Most air source heat pump installations take around 2 to 5 days once your home survey, system design, and quote are complete. A straightforward installation may only take a couple of days, while larger or more complex properties can take longer.

The timeline depends on your home, the size of the heat pump, where the outdoor unit will be fitted, and the condition of your existing heating system. Extra work, such as fitting larger radiators, upgrading pipework, or installing a new hot water cylinder, can add more time.

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Yes, air source heat pumps can save money, but the amount you save depends on your home, your energy tariff, and the heating system you are replacing.

If you're replacing an older, less efficient boiler, electric storage heaters, oil, or LPG heating, an air source heat pump is more likely to lower your energy bills. At current UK energy prices, though, its running costs are often similar to a new gas boiler.

Air source heat pumps are efficient because they move heat rather than creating it by burning fuel. A well-installed system can produce several units of heat for every unit of electricity it uses, helping to reduce the energy needed to heat your home.

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An air source heat pump usually costs around £11,000 to install before grants. However, eligible homeowners in England and Wales can reduce this upfront cost through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which currently offers £7,500 towards an air source heat pump. Based on an average installation cost, this could bring the price down to around £3,500 after the grant is applied. This means a heat pump can cost a similar amount to a traditional gas boiler replacement, which typically costs around £3,700. Please note: Your final price will depend on your system size, installer quote, and any extra work needed, such as larger radiators, pipework changes, or a new hot water cylinder.

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An air source heat pump is a low-carbon heating system that takes heat from the outside air and uses it to warm your home and hot water. It runs on electricity and works by absorbing heat from outdoor air, increasing its temperature, and transferring it into your heating system.

Air source heat pumps can work even in cold weather because there's still heat energy in the air. They are often used with radiators, underfloor heating, and hot water cylinders.

Compared with gas, oil, or direct electric heating, an air source heat pump can be a more energy-efficient way to heat a home because it moves heat rather than creating it by burning fuel. This makes it a popular choice for homeowners looking to reduce carbon emissions and switch to cleaner heating.

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