Myth Busting Series: Heat Pumps

As the UK moves towards a cleaner, greener future, heat pumps are becoming a hot topic. But with new tech comes new questions—and a fair few misconceptions! If you’ve heard that heat pumps don’t work in older homes, are noisy, or cost the earth, you’re not alone. Let’s set the record straight and show why heat pumps can be a smart, comfortable, and climate-friendly choice for homes across the UK.

“Heat pumps don’t work in older homes”

Reality: With the right setup, they can work brilliantly.

• Older homes may need some tweaks, like better insulation or larger radiators, but that’s true of most heating upgrades.
• If your home is listed or in a conservation area, you may need planning permission for an external unit. Your local council can advise!

The takeaway? No home is “too old” for a heat pump – its about choosing the right set up for your property.

Still not convinced? Check out these real-life stories of heat pumps keeping older homes warm and efficient.

“Heat pumps are noisy”

Reality: If you’ve ever stood next to a fridge or a modern gas boiler, you’ve already got a good idea of how loud a heat pump is!

• UK regulations limit heat pump noise to just 42 decibels at the nearest neighbour’s boundary.
• They may make a bit more noise during frosty weather, but you can still chat next to one without raising your voice!
• Unusual noise usually means it needs a service, hasn’t been levelled, or could benefit from anti-vibration feet (like on washing machines). A good installer will get it whisper-quiet.

“Heat Pumps are expensive to install and run”

 Reality: Upfront costs can be higher than a gas boiler, but support is out there – and their efficiency pays off!

Current grants that can help with the cost of  heat pump include:

• The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS): offers a £7,500 grant for air or ground source heat pumps. Some suppliers, like Octopus Energy offer installations starting from £500 after the grant.  (find out more)
• Energy Company Obligation (ECO4): Support for low-income households to improve energy efficiency, including heat pump installs.  (find out more)
• Warm Homes Local Grant: Support for eligible households to fit energy saving upgrades.  Check if you are eligible here

Heat pumps are 3–5 times more efficient than gas boilers. If you’re switching from oil, LPG or old electric heating, the savings can be significant. Pair them with a heat pump-friendly tariff, solar panels, or battery storage to slash running costs further.

To learn more about the potential annual savings of installing an air source heat pump, read the in-depth guide to heat pumps from Energy Saving Trust.

“Heat pumps don’t work in winter”

Reality: Modern heat pumps are designed to work efficiently in cold climates, even in sub zero conditions.

In Norway (where winter averages around -7°C)  over 60% of homes have one!  (632 heat pumps per 1,000 households according to the European Heat Pump Association).

UK winters are mild by comparison, so a properly installed heat pump will keep you cosy!

“Heat pumps need constant maintenance”

Reality: They require about the same upkeep as a modern boiler.

• A yearly service keeps efficiency high, but there’s no endless tinkering involved.
• Many owners go years between anything other than simple filter cleaning.

“You need to super‑insulate your home before getting a heat pump”

Reality: Better insulation always helps, but it’s not a deal‑breaker.

• While good insulation helps your heat pump perform at its best, you don’t need top-level insulation for it to be worthwhile. Many typical UK homes—with just modest upgrades—can run heat pumps efficiently when the system is well designed.
• A trusted installer will look at your home and suggest any simple, cost‑effective upgrades you might want to do before or alongside fitting your heat pump.

Heat pumps aren’t just for new builds or eco-homes – they’re for anyone who wants a warm, efficient home and a cleaner future. With the right advice and support, they can work in homes of all shapes, sizes, and ages across the UK.