Heating is one of the biggest sources of household emissions in many countries. Heat pumps, which move heat rather than burn fuel, are being promoted as a low-carbon alternative to gas and oil boilers.
They work differently from boilers, so it helps to understand how before deciding.
How they work
A heat pump extracts heat from outside air (air-source) or the ground (ground-source) and concentrates it to heat your home and water. It works like a fridge in reverse. Because it moves heat rather than creating it, it can deliver several units of heat for each unit of electricity used.
What makes them work well
- Good insulation and draught-proofing
- Correctly sized radiators or underfloor heating
- A professional heat-loss survey
- Running at lower, steadier temperatures for longer
Costs and grants
Installation costs are higher than boilers, but many governments offer grants or incentives. Running costs depend on electricity prices, tariffs, and how efficient the system is.
Common myths
Heat pumps do work in cold climates and are widely used in Scandinavia. They also work in many older homes, although some need upgrades first. Get advice from an accredited installer.
This is general sustainability information. Recycling, composting, and disposal rules vary by municipality — check local guidance. Cost and energy savings are estimates and depend on your home and usage.