Heat Pump Installation Cost UK 2026: What’s Included and Hidden Costs to Watch For

Thinking about heat pump installation in the UK in 2026? Before having installers survey your home for any planned installation, first understand what a standard package includes, typical prices for air- and ground-source systems, which grants and 0% VAT you can use, and how to budget confidently so you can make the best decisions.

While all heat pump types function similarly, their prices vary due to other factors;in the UK, typical pricing in 2026 depending on the by technology and type of property. For example, air-source systems cost £8,000–£15,000 installed before grants. For ground-source, expect to shell out £20,000–£30,000 or more, which is largely driven by trenching or boreholes.

Larger homes needing a higher-capacity unit, such as a 4 ton heat pump package unit, will usually sit towards the upper end of these installed price ranges because of the bigger system and more extensive labour.

However, if you apply the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which is a government grant, you can subtract £7,500 from eligible quotes, bringing many ASHP (air-source heat pumps) installs into the £500–£7,500 range, and some GSHPs (ground-source heat pumps) to the low-twenties. Another incentive is the 0% VAT rate, running until 2027, which helps lower upfront costs further.

When comparing quotes, check what’s actually included—labour, pipework, and commissioning are standard, but items like new radiators, hot water cylinders, or electrical upgrades may be billed separately, significantly affecting the total cost of the heat pump and installation for your home.

It usually covers the essentials to get your system up and running. This starts with the supply of the unit itself, which is most commonly an air-to-water model to UK households. Basic labour, wiring, and pipework are included to connect everything.

In many cases, a new hot-water cylinder is fitted if your current one isn’t compatible. Installers also manage the necessary plumbing and electrical works, ensuring the heat pump system is correctly sized, safely wired, and ready for everyday use.

Before installation, a heat-loss survey is conducted to assess the property’s efficiency, followed by a tailored system design and commissioning to verify that your unit’s performance meets the required standards.

After these, the next step would be to set up controls so you can easily manage heating and hot water schedules. Installers also manage your Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant application, helping you secure substantial discounts without additional hassle.

Finally, warranties on both the equipment and the workmanship are typically provided, giving you peace of mind regarding the quality of the unit and the installation.

EcoFlow’s PowerHeat is designed to make low-carbon heating both efficient and user-friendly. As an air-to-water model, it integrates seamlessly with radiators, underfloor heating, and domestic hot water systems.

It features key tech innovations, including high seasonal efficiency, smart control options, and whisper-quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of UK homes.

When paired with a professional heat pump installation, PowerHeat can help homeowners reduce carbon emissions and running costs while maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures.

Beyond the basics, many projects incur extra costs. These extras don’t just affect the equipment price — they can significantly increase the installed price of your heat pump package, especially in older or larger homes.

For example, fitting a new consumer unit, installing dedicated circuits, or securing DNO approval for higher loads. On the heating side, upgrades include radiator resizing, radiator valves, new pipework, or more to achieve optimum comfort and performance.

System changes are another potential expense, as you may need several parts to handle the demands of your new system. For ground-source projects, groundworks can add cost. Trench-based systems are cheaper but require more land, while boreholes are space-efficient but more costly due to the additional labor required.

Aside from these, several performance optimising improvements can be expected too, like insulation improvements. These are often advised to help keep unit efficiency at peak, alongside site preps like concrete base, drainage, scaffolding, or wall brackets.

Decommissioning the oil boiler, removing oil tanks, and disposing of old materials and planning components can also increase the overall cost of the heat pump and installation.

Maintaining a heat pump system ensures long-term efficiency and longevity. Usually costing between £150 and £350, annual maintenance runs cover inspections, cleaning, and performance checks. Performing these checks helps identify minor issues, such as fan or compressor wear, before they escalate into expensive repairs.

Some components, like fans or compressors, may also need replacement, so it’s wise to take note of potential repair costs in your long-term budget. Routine checks on these components also guarantee that your system continues to deliver optimum heating and hot water while keeping running costs low.

By getting annual services with a certified installer, you preserve warranties and maintain your unit’s performance. Not doing this can shorten system lifespan and increase energy bills, so for homeowners considering how to install a heat pump, factoring in servicing and maintenance costs is just as important as budgeting for the initial installation.

UK homeowners can apply for several financial support programs and incentives to lower the cost of their unit and its installation. As of 2026, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) provides £7,500 for both air-source and ground-source systems, directly reducing the upfront costs.

Another incentive is the 0% VAT on the supply and installation of domestic heat pumps, available until March 2027. With these incentives, switching from gas or oil boilers gets significantly cheaper and more available.

Eligibility, though, may depend on your property’s EPC rating, so it’s worth checking this before requesting quotes. Installers typically manage grant applications as part of a full-service package, saving time for your end and ensuring paperwork is completed correctly.

Before you commit, always request a comprehensive quote from your installer that clearly outlines the full coverage for your heat pump installation. A detailed quote should cover the overall costs for the unit, labour, electrical and plumbing works, and controls setup.

Also, clarify some extras, like cylinder replacements, radiator upgrades, or site prep, so you avoid unexpected costs. Comparing multiple quotes from different installers is also a good way to find the right balance between price, expertise, and service.

Consider factors like energy efficiency and savings, lifespan of the unit, and compatibility with smart systems, like EcoFlow’s integration of heat pump and energy storage units. These details affect not only day-to-day comfort but also the long-term cost of your heat pump installation and the overall savings you can achieve over its lifespan.

If you’re ready to explore options, EcoFlow offers a straightforward yet detailed assessment of your property and heating needs.

The cost of a heat pump and installation isn’t a single flat price—it combines a standard package with potential add-ons like electrical upgrades, radiator resizing, or groundworks. Grants such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and 0% VAT relief help reduce upfront costs, but homeowners should plan for both the installation, extras, and upkeep costs.

Budgeting realistically ensures you can manage the investment and reap long-term energy savings. Understanding the full scope, from equipment and labour to ongoing servicing, keeps surprises to a minimum and supports a smooth transition to a low-carbon heat pump system.

A heat pump typically lasts 15–20 years with proper maintenance. Longevity depends on usage, climate, and servicing. Regular checks and timely repairs can extend its lifespan, making it a reliable long-term heating and cooling solution.

Grant eligibility depends on factors such as property type, energy performance certificate (EPC) rating, and whether you’re installing an air-source or ground-source system. You can check the local programs to determine what support is available.

Annual servicing usually costs £150–£350. Occasional repairs, such as replacing fans or compressors, may add extra costs, but regular checks can prevent major issues. Regular maintenance is generally cheaper than many traditional heating systems.

No. Professional installation is recommended for safety, efficiency, and to qualify for grants. It requires specialist skills, tools, and certification to handle refrigerants and electrical work safely.

Yes. Modern air-source heat pumps are designed to operate efficiently even in low temperatures. Proper sizing, good insulation, and professional installation help maintain strong performance year-round.