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Air Source Heat Pumps for Flats in the UK: Costs & Installation
- It is possible to install a heat pump in a flat, either for individual flats or an entire block.
- You can expect a 4-6kW air source heat pump for a flat to cost £8,150 on average.
- When getting a heat pump for your flat, you should consider the available space, planning permissions, and the condition of your existing infrastructure and heating system.
As of 2023, about 16% of UK households were using heat pumps as their primary heating source. While heat pumps are becoming more well-known and common, most people do not associate them with flats. However, these low-carbon heating systems are more versatile than you might think.
In this article, we'll explain how heat pumps in flats work, how much they might cost, and the best ways you can save money throughout the installation process. For those already sure that a heat pump is the best thing for their flat, then be sure to get your free comparison quotes from WhatCost.
All you have to do is fill in our quick contact form to hear from up to 4 heat pump installers. You can then compare their tailored quotes and choose the one that suits you best. Save hours of searching on your own, and let us do the hard work for you.
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Can you have a heat pump in a flat?
Yes, installing a heat pump in a flat is possible, depending on certain requirements being met. Air source heat pumps don't require any digging, making them more suitable for individual apartments.
Air source heat pumps
An air source heat pump can be installed for an individual flat, in place of an existing water-based heating system like a boiler or an underfloor heating system.
An air-to-water heat pump is advisable as it can provide space heating and hot water, as opposed to air-to-air heat pump that can only provide heating/cooling.
Both indoor and outdoor space is required for an air source heat pump. Here are some general measurements to consider:
- Outdoor unit: 1.5m x 1m x 0.5m
- Indoor units:
- Hot water heater: 1.5m x 0.7m
- Heat exchange unit: 0.7m x 0.4m x 0.3m
Good to know: With less indoor space, flats generally require smaller air source heat pumps compared to houses.
You can install the outdoor unit on a balcony or garden as long as there is enough space in front of it to allow air circulation around the unit.
However, you may not have a balcony or enough available space for the unit and the space around it. In these cases, an air source heat pump can also be attached to a flat roof or an outdoor wall as long as it can be easily accessed.
How does it work?:
- The heat pump absorbs heat from the outside air into a liquid refrigerant at a low temperature.
- Using electricity, the pump compresses the liquid to increase its temperature.
- The heated liquid then condenses, releasing its stored heat.
- The vapour is delivered to your home via your central heating system, or underfloor heating.
- The vapour transforms back into a liquid, which is cooled down so it can be recirculated to your home.
Planning permissions
It's important to note that while heat pumps are often permitted development, it's always advisable to check with your local planning authority before air source heat pump installation, especially for flats in multi-unit buildings where additional restrictions may apply.
Planning permission may be required if the property is a listed building, a conservation area, or the installation does not meet the MCS Planning Standards, particularly regarding noise levels.
Ground source heat pumps
Ground source heat pumps can be installed to provide heating and hot water to entire buildings of multiple flats, using a shared ground loop system.
Pipes are buried either in horizontal trenches or in vertical boreholes close to the building. Each flat in the building has its own heat pump unit connected to the shared ground loop, and can control its heating and hot water independently.
Heat pump for flats costs
On average, you can expect an air source heat pump to cost £8,150, including installation and ancillary costs. This will depend on the size of the heat pump required, which for a UK flat, will be between 4-6kW.
| Size | Cost |
|---|---|
| 4kW | £7,780 |
| 6kW | £8,530 |
Source: Eunomia Research & Consulting
Besides the size and capacity of your new heat pump, some other factors might influence air source heat pump costs in the UK:
- Existing heating system: If your heat pump will be installed as part of an existing heating system, then the pipes and radiators should be in good condition.
- Insulation quality: Heat pumps work best in well-insulated homes since the heat output runs slightly lower than a traditional boiler. Therefore, you may need to upgrade the insulation in your home to make way for a heat pump.
Grants for heat pumps in flats
There are some heat pump grants in the UK available for flats in the UK that can help bring the total costs down:
| Heat pump grant | Amount | Run time | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) | £7,500 | Until March 31, 2028 | Properties in England and Wales replacing existing fossil fuel system |
| Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) | Varies | April 2022 - March 2026 | Low-income and vulnerable households in England, Wales, Scotland |
| Home Energy Scotland Scheme | Up to £15,000 | Ongoing (no specified end date) | Properties in Scotland |
| Warmer Homes Scotland | Interest-free loans exceeding £10,000 | Launched October 2023 (ongoing) | Properties in Scotland |
| Warm Nest Scheme Wales | Up to 100% coverage | Indefinite | Homeowners or renters in Wales living in energy inefficient homes, and with certain benefits |
Once you have an idea of how much a heat pump might cost you, the next step is to find yourself a good deal from a professional installer. WhatCost is here to help you skip the time-consuming part of spending hours searching for trustworthy installers.
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How does a heat pump installation work in a flat or apartment?
Curious about the installation process of a heat pump in a flat? Take a look at the step-by-step list below to get an idea of what to expect:
- Site evaluation: An installer assesses the flat to determine the best placement for indoor and outdoor units.
- Permissions: Obtain necessary approvals from the building owner, management, or residents' association.
- Outdoor unit installation: The unit is mounted on a balcony, exterior wall, or roof, always ensuring proper clearance for airflow.
- Indoor component installation: This includes placing the hot water cylinder, heat exchanger, and any necessary piping or radiator upgrades.
- Connection: A small hole is drilled in the exterior wall to connect the outdoor and indoor units.
- Electrical work: The system is connected to the flat's electrical supply, which may require upgrades.
- System setup and testing: The installer configures the system and performs checks to ensure proper operation.
Pros and cons of a heat pump in a flat
- Energy efficiency: Produces up to 4 times more heat than the electricity consumed, which leads to lower energy bills.
- Environmental benefits: Use clean, renewable energy sources, resulting in lower CO2 emissions.
- Year-round use: Can provide both heating and cooling, for year-round temperature control.
- Low maintenance: Low maintenance costs and can last up to 15-20 years with proper care.
- High initial cost: Upfront cost of purchasing and installing a heat pump is significant and the payback period can be lengthy.
- Space requirements: Finding suitable locations for components like the hot water cylinder and heat exchanger can be challenging in smaller flats.
- Noise concerns: Some models can produce noise, which may be an issue in apartment settings.
Should you get a heat pump for your apartment or flat?
Installing a heat pump for your flat or apartment is sometimes a complicated process when compared to a traditional house. However, once installed, you can enjoy efficient heating and cooling, reduced energy bills, and knowing that you're contributing towards a cleaner, greener heating landscape.
While the upfront costs of a heat pump can be steep, you can keep costs down by comparing installer quotes and choosing the best offer. Rather than seeking out the cheapest deal possible, you should only compare offers from the most qualified options.
WhatCost can help you with this process and save you hours of searching. Start by answering a few simple questions, then we'll connect you with up to 4 of the best heat pump installers in your area. You can then consult them about your project and receive their tailored heat pump quotes.
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Frequently asked questions
