With energy prices rising and the UK moving towards net zero, more homeowners in the South East are considering air source heat pumps as a low‑carbon alternative to traditional boilers. Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grants make the transition more affordable, but many still have questions.
How much does an air source heat pump installation cost? How do you get an accurate heat pump installation quote? What exactly does the grant cover?
At ECS, we’ve been helping South East homeowners navigate these decisions for years, and we’ve put together this guide to help you make the right choice for your home.
Air Source Heat Pump Installation: From Quote to Completion
A professional air source heat pump installation begins with an on‑site property survey carried out by one of our MCS‑certified installers. We’ll assess your insulation, current heating system, and outdoor space to determine the correct size and specification of heat pump for your home. Well‑insulated properties always perform better, and sometimes we recommend small improvements, such as loft or cavity wall insulation, before the installation goes ahead.
Once your home has been assessed, you will receive a detailed heat pump installation quote. This will outline the cost of the heat pump unit itself, the labour required, and any additional work, such as new radiators, pipework modifications, or a hot water cylinder upgrade.
The installer will also include the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant deduction, which reduces your upfront air source heat pump installation cost automatically.
Installation usually takes between two and five days, depending on the property. The outdoor unit is positioned on a suitable wall or concrete pad, pipework is connected to your heating and hot water systems, and the heat pump is commissioned for optimum efficiency. A full handover, MCS certificate, and warranty documentation are provided once the job is complete.
Understanding Heat Pump Installation Quotes and Costs
The price of a heat pump installation quote depends largely on the size of your property, the efficiency of your insulation, and the compatibility of your existing heating system. For example, a small, well‑insulated semi‑detached home will generally cost less to upgrade than a large detached property with old radiators and minimal insulation.
Most air source heat pump installation costs fall between £7,000 and £15,000 before grants. Larger properties with higher heating demands sit at the top of this range, while compact, energy‑efficient homes fall closer to the lower end. A clear and transparent quote will break down the equipment, labour, and any recommended improvements, so you can see exactly what you’re paying for.
Heat Pump Grants Through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme
To qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) in England and Wales, your home must replace an existing gas, oil, LPG, or direct‑electric system with a low‑carbon alternative. The installation must also be carried out by an MCS‑certified engineer, and your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must show no outstanding insulation recommendations.
When you request a heat pump installation quote, your installer will apply for the grant on your behalf. The grant is deducted from your air source heat pump installation cost, reducing your initial outlay and making the transition far more affordable.
Homeowners can also explore other incentives such as ECO4 or the Great British Insulation Scheme, which can help reduce energy demand and improve efficiency.
Air Source Heat Pump Installation Cost After Grants
After applying the £7,500 BUS grant, most homeowners can expect to pay a fraction of the initial cost. For example, a £12,000 system would cost just £4,500 after the grant is applied, and in smaller properties you can expect to pay even less. With the government’s zero‑VAT policy on energy‑saving measures in place until 2027, you could also benefit from further additional savings on your overall installation cost.
Ongoing running costs vary depending on property size, energy tariffs, and how well your home retains heat. To give some idea, a correctly sized and well‑maintained heat pump may cost between £855 and £1,700 per year to run, which over its 15‑ to 20‑year lifespan can result in significant savings compared to oil or LPG heating.
Planning Permission for Air Source Heat Pump Installation
In most cases, air source heat pump installation is classed as permitted development in England, which means planning permission is not required. The main requirements are that the outdoor unit meets noise regulations, is sited an appropriate distance from neighbouring properties, and does not exceed permitted dimensions.
When an Air Source Heat Pump Installation Makes Sense
Air source heat pumps are particularly effective for homes that are off the gas grid, such as those currently heated by oil, LPG, or direct electricity. They perform best in properties with good insulation, but even homes with older heating systems can see benefits once basic efficiency improvements are made.
If you are planning to remain in your property for many years and want to reduce both your carbon footprint and exposure to rising fuel costs, now is an ideal time to seek a heat pump installation quote. Even households still using gas boilers may consider switching if their system is due for replacement. With the grant in place and energy prices continuing to fluctuate, an air source heat pump installation can provide predictable running costs and long‑term energy savings.
Maximising Efficiency and Long‑Term Savings
Getting the best value from your air source heat pump installation cost requires careful planning and ongoing maintenance. Improving insulation in your loft, walls, and floors keeps the heat generated inside your home. Pairing your heat pump with solar PV or battery storage can offset electricity consumption and further reduce running costs.
Finally, annual servicing by a qualified engineer helps maintain peak efficiency and extends the lifespan of your system. The combination of grant support, reduced VAT, and long‑term savings makes the air source heat pump installation a great future‑proof investment for homeowners across the South East.
Professional Installation You Can Trust
We specialise in MCS‑certified air source heat pump installations throughout Hampshire and the South East. Our experienced engineers provide clear heat pump installation quotes with the £7,500 BUS grant already applied, comprehensive twelve‑month warranties on all parts and labour, and detailed digital handovers with full documentation.
We handle everything from the initial survey through to final commissioning, taking care of grant applications and building regulations.. With transparent pricing and no hidden costs, you’ll know exactly what your air source heat pump installation will cost from day one.
Get Your Heat Pump Installation Quote Today
Government grants make switching to an air source heat pump installation more achievable than ever. With an accurate heat pump installation quote and expert guidance from ECS Plumbing & Heating, you can reduce your energy bills, cut your carbon footprint, and future‑proof your home.
Contact ECS today on 01420 571000 or email hello@ecsplumbing.co.uk to book your home survey and start your journey toward a warmer, more efficient home.
