3 common customer misconceptions about heat pumps

At Heatly, we talk to installers to understand and address the misconceptions that are holding homeowners back from embracing heat pump technology. Our recent installer survey revealed the 3 most common misconceptions that continue to deter homeowners from making the switch.

They are:

• Heat pumps only work in new or highly insulated homes (72.3%)
• Heat pumps are expensive to run (63.9%)
• Heat pumps don’t work in cold weather (62.2%)

In this blog, we’ll dispel these myths and provide the facts to help heat pump installers and their customers make informed decisions.

Myth 1: heat pumps only work in new or highly insulated homes

Contrary to popular belief, heat pumps are not exclusive to modern, ultra-insulated properties and many installers have successfully fitted heat pumps in older homes and listed buildings. The Electrification of Heat (EoH) project found there is no property type or architectural era that is unsuitable for a heat pump - they perform well in homes of all ages, including those built before 1919.

The truth: A well-insulated property improves efficiency, but this does not mean older homes or those with only moderate insulation cannot benefit from a heat pump. Installers need to take a comprehensive approach:

• Professional assessment of a property to determine heat loss – the Heatly app will soon make this process a lot easier!
• Suggest energy efficiency improvements.
• Careful system design to for the specific heating requirements of the property. Beware over-sizing! More about that, here.

Additionally, heat pumps can help to reduce mould issues by improving temperature regulation and reducing indoor humidity. Heat pumps work by providing steady, even heat, preventing cold spots where condensation and mould typically form. Unlike gas boilers that are usually turned up high and then switched off, the best way to use a heat pump is to maintain a stable temperature, which can improve comfort levels, whilst also reducing the risk of dampness.

Myth 2: heat pumps are too expensive to run

The UK's energy landscape is changing, and so are the economics of heat pumps. The belief that heat pumps are too expensive to run is common but the reality is more nuanced. Running costs depend on multiple factors, including correct system design and installation, electricity prices and home insulation. 

The Truth: A well designed and properly installed heat pump is usually cheaper to run due to their efficiency - typically 300-400% compared with a gas boiler at around 98%.

The Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) is used to determine a heat pump systems efficiency. SCOP 3 = 300% efficient, for example - the higher the number the better. Currently, electricity is around three times more expensive than gas, so a heat pump must reach a SCOP 3 or above to match or reduce running costs compared to a gas boiler.

There are calls to reduce the price of electricity to bring it more in-line with gas and this is currently under review by the Government. If this happens, heat pumps will be considerably cheaper than a gas boiler to run thanks to their extremely high efficiencies.

Reduce heat loss to save on your bills

Reducing heat loss in your home will reduce electricity bills and improve comfort levels, whether you have a heat pump or a gas boiler. Many of the ways to do this are reasonably inexpensive, such as loft insulation and draught proofing.

There are funding schemes to help cover the cost of home energy efficiency upgrades if you are in a low income or vulnerable household (particularly if anyone living in your home has health conditions that could be affected by cold and/or damp).

• ECO4 – Support for low-income households and those with health conditions by funding insulation, solar panels and smart heating controls.
• Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) – Provides subsidised or in some cases, free insulation for the least energy-efficient homes in England, Scotland and Wales.

Choosing the right energy tariffs with save £s

Several UK energy providers offer heat pump-specific tariffs that reduce running costs by providing cheaper electricity during off-peak hours. These include:

• Cosy Octopus by Octopus Energy
• British Gas Heat Pump Tariff
• ScottishPower Heat Pump Saver
• Good Energy Renewable Heat Pump Tariff
• Heat Pump Plus by OVO Energy

Energy consumption, especially heating, varies significantly throughout the year. Bills will be higher in winter and more affordable during the summer months. Fixed tariffs can help make expenses more predictable, reducing the impact of high winter bills.

Myth 3: heat pumps don't work in cold weather

A common concern among UK homeowners is that heat pumps become inefficient or stop working altogether in winter. 

The Truth: Modern heat pumps are designed to operate efficiently in cold climates. For decades, heat pump technology has been used in some of the coldest regions in the world, including Scandinavia and Canada.

The key to cold-weather performance lies in proper system design and installation, and where possible, steps to prevent heat loss. After an assessment, an installer will choose the right size heat pump, ensuring it is correctly set up and continues to provide consistent warmth and comfort throughout the winter months.

The future of heat pumps in the UK

The transition to heat pumps is a critical step towards the UK's net-zero carbon emissions goals. The government's target of 600,000 heat pump installations annually by 2028 underscores the technology's importance in our sustainable energy strategy.

Heat pumps are not just about cutting carbon, however. For many people they offer an excellent alternative to gas that will improve comfort levels and reduce running costs overtime. What’s important now is that installers and their customers are armed with the facts and don’t get put off by the unduly negative myths.