The Climate Change Committee (CCC) has urged the UK government to ensure that 50% of all homes are heated by a heat pump by 2040.
In response, epIMS – the EPC and energy efficiency platform designed for landlords – has released crucial advice to help homeowners and landlords make informed decisions about heat pumps and how to optimize their performance.
The CCC’s Seventh Carbon Budget report reveals that only 1% of UK homes currently use a heat pump.
With the UK’s dwelling stock estimated at 30.4 million homes, this equates to just over 304,000 properties with a heat pump installed.
MILLIONS OF INSTALLATIONS NEEDED
Looking ahead, epIMS forecasts that the UK housing stock will grow to nearly 34.9 million homes by 2040, based on trends observed over the past 40 years.
If the CCC’s target is to be met, around 17.4 million homes will need heat pumps by then. This means approximately 17.1 million installations are required over the next 15 years.
However, the road to mass heat pump adoption is far from simple. The average cost of installing an air source heat pump today stands at £10,900.
Even as technology advances and prices fall, epIMS predicts the average cost will still hover around £8,860 by 2040. Given the significant financial commitment, homeowners and landlords must fully understand how heat pumps impact their property’s energy efficiency and what additional steps might be necessary to get the best results.
To support this, epIMS has shared expert insights for those considering heat pump installation.
INSULATION IS KEY
A heat pump works most effectively when a property is well insulated, so it’s essential to improve insulation wherever possible. Homeowners may be eligible for funding through the Great British Insulation Scheme to assess their current insulation levels and make upgrades.
For older homes with less-than-perfect insulation, increasing the number of radiators can also enhance heat pump performance. More radiators spread the heating load, allowing the heat pump to work more efficiently and reduce energy bills. It’s advisable to speak to the installer about whether boosting the home’s heating surface area is necessary.
Unlike gas boilers, heat pumps operate best when maintaining a steady temperature rather than being turned on and off frequently. This might mean adjusting heating habits – radiators may not feel as hot to the touch, but rooms will still warm up effectively if the system runs consistently.
CUSTOMISATION
Heat pumps can be tailored to fit individual heating preferences, so homeowners should work closely with their installer to ensure the system is set up correctly before final sign-off.
One of the most common reasons for poor heat pump performance – and higher-than-expected electricity bills – is user error. It’s crucial not to treat a heat pump like a traditional gas boiler. The two systems work differently, and taking time to understand the manufacturer’s guidelines will prevent costly mistakes.
Heat pumps are not a one-size-fits-all solution. The size and specification of a heat pump must match the size and needs of a property, so homeowners should question the quotes they receive and ensure they are getting the correct setup for their home.
EPC RATINGS
Another key point is the way heat pumps currently impact EPC ratings. While a heat pump can boost a home’s actual energy efficiency, some homeowners may notice their EPC score drop due to the way these ratings are calculated. The government is, however, planning to revise this system, so future EPC ratings should better reflect the positive impact of heat pumps.
Despite these complexities, many who have installed heat pumps report satisfaction with their lower bills and improved energy efficiency. Anyone considering a heat pump is encouraged to research user reviews and feedback, in addition to official advice from the government and heat pump providers.
COST-EFFECTIVE IMPROVEMENTS
Craig Cooper, Chief Operating Officer of epIMS, says: “Heat pumps are championed as a powerful way to cut energy consumption because they transfer heat from the surrounding environment rather than generating it directly.
“This makes them much more efficient than traditional gas boilers. However, they come with a hefty price tag, so it’s vital to understand how they work before investing.
“For those seeking short-term efficiency gains, there are other, more affordable options to explore first. This is especially true for landlords. With the government pushing for private rented properties to achieve a minimum EPC rating of C by 2030, landlords need to act now to bring their portfolios up to standard.”
HIGH UPFRONT COSTS
He adds: “While heat pumps may be part of a long-term strategy, their high upfront cost means they may not be a viable solution right away.
“Instead, landlords should focus on identifying the most practical, cost-effective improvements to boost their properties’ energy efficiency and ensure they can continue renting beyond 2030. This will give them a decade to prepare for heat pump installations and still align with the CCC’s 2040 target.”
