Best Air Source Heat Pumps UK 2025
Complete Installation Guide & Expert Reviews
Compare the top air source heat pumps available in the UK. Get up to £7,500 government grants through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and find trusted installers near you.
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Air Source Heat Pumps Overview
🔥 How They Work
Air source heat pumps extract heat from outside air (even in cold weather) and transfer it indoors to heat your home and water. They work like a refrigerator in reverse.
💡 Efficiency
Modern heat pumps achieve 300-500% efficiency, producing 3-5 units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed - far more efficient than gas boilers.
💰 Government Support
Get up to £7,500 through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme when replacing a gas, oil, or LPG boiler with an air source heat pump.
🌱 Environmental Benefits
Reduce your carbon footprint by up to 75% compared to gas boilers. Compatible with renewable electricity for zero-carbon heating.
Why Choose Air Source Heat Pumps?
High Efficiency
400%+ efficiency means lower running costs than traditional heating systems
Heating & Cooling
Provides both heating in winter and cooling in summer with one system
Low Maintenance
Minimal maintenance required - annual service check recommended
Smart Controls
Modern units include Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone app control
Viessmann Vitocal - Best Overall
The Viessmann Vitocal range is consistently rated as the best overall air source heat pump in the UK, offering exceptional efficiency, reliability, and build quality. With A+++ ErP ratings and SCOP values up to 5.0, it's the top choice for homeowners seeking premium performance.
Capacity Range
2.1-14.9 kW
Suitable for all home sizes
Efficiency (SCOP)
Up to 5.0
A+++ ErP rating
Operating Range
-20°C to +45°C
Reliable cold weather operation
Noise Level
30-56 dB(A)
Quiet operation
✅ Pros
- Highest efficiency ratings in the UK market
- Compact design - 60% less space than competitors
- R290 natural refrigerant (eco-friendly)
- Excellent build quality and reliability
- 7-year extended warranty available
- Compatible with existing radiator systems
❌ Cons
- Higher upfront cost than some alternatives
- Annual servicing recommended
- Performance drops below -10°C
💰 Pricing
£5,620 - £11,375 (before £7,500 BUS grant)
Net cost: £0 - £3,875 (after grant)
Mitsubishi Ecodan - Most Reliable
The Mitsubishi Ecodan is renowned for its exceptional reliability and extensive UK support network. With over 100,000 units installed across Europe, it's proven its durability and performance in the UK climate.
Capacity Range
5-17 kW
Multiple configurations
Efficiency (SCOP)
Up to 4.8
A+++ ErP rating
Operating Range
-25°C to +46°C
Excellent cold weather performance
Noise Level
45-58 dB(A)
Ultra-quiet models available
Popular Models
- R32 Ultra Quiet: Ultra-low noise (45 dB) for residential areas
- R290 High Temp: Flow temperatures up to 75°C for older radiators
- R32 Compact: Space-saving design for smaller properties
- R32 Zubadan: High capacity (14kW) for larger homes
✅ Pros
- Proven reliability with 100,000+ installations
- Excellent UK support network
- Works down to -25°C efficiently
- Easy integration with UK boiler systems
- 7-year warranty with certified installers
- Smart controls and remote monitoring
❌ Cons
- Mid-range pricing
- Some models can be noisy
- Installation complexity varies by model
💰 Pricing
£2,600 - £5,800 (unit only, before BUS grant)
£10,000 - £15,000 (installed, before grant)
Net installed cost: £2,500 - £7,500 (after £7,500 grant)
Daikin Altherma 3 - Best for Cold Climates
The Daikin Altherma 3 excels in cold weather conditions, maintaining excellent performance even at temperatures as low as -28°C. It's the ideal choice for properties in Scotland, Northern England, and other cold regions.
Capacity Range
4-18 kW
Wide range of outputs
Efficiency (SCOP)
4.5-5.12
A+++ ErP rating
Operating Range
-28°C to +46°C
Industry-leading cold performance
Noise Level
43-60 dB(A)
Low sound mode available
Advanced Technology
- Bluevolution Technology: Enhanced performance and efficiency
- Smart Defrost: Optimized defrosting for cold climates
- Daikin Residential Controller App: Remote smartphone control
- Smart Assistant Integration: Works with Google Assistant and Alexa
- Solar Integration: Compatible with solar PV systems
✅ Pros
- Outstanding cold weather performance (-28°C)
- High efficiency across all temperature ranges
- Advanced smart controls and app integration
- Both split and monobloc configurations
- Integrated hot water storage options
- Compatible with underfloor heating
❌ Cons
- Higher initial investment
- Complex installation requirements
- Customer service can be slow to respond
💰 Pricing
£4,141 - £6,142 (unit only, before BUS grant)
£12,000 - £18,000 (installed, before grant)
Net installed cost: £4,500 - £10,500 (after £7,500 grant)
Samsung EHS - Quietest Operation
Samsung's EHS range is designed for ultra-quiet operation, making it perfect for residential areas with noise restrictions. The HT Quiet model operates at just 35 dB(A) - quieter than most refrigerators.
Capacity Range
5-16 kW
Suitable for most homes
Efficiency (SCOP)
Up to 4.9
A+++ ErP rating
Operating Range
-25°C to +46°C
Reliable cold weather operation
Noise Level
35-55 dB(A)
Industry-leading quiet operation
Noise Reduction Technology
- Double-layered Sound Insulation: Advanced noise dampening
- Groove Grid Felt Design: Patented noise reduction system
- Variable Speed Compressor: Smooth, quiet operation
- Optimized Fan Design: Reduced air turbulence
✅ Pros
- Ultra-quiet operation (35 dB minimum)
- Sleek, modern design
- Excellent cold weather performance
- Smart inverter technology
- R290 refrigerant (eco-friendly)
- Comprehensive warranty coverage
❌ Cons
- Limited to smaller/medium properties
- Higher cost for quiet models
- Less suitable for very large homes
💰 Pricing
£3,385 - £8,000 (unit only, before BUS grant)
£11,000 - £16,000 (installed, before grant)
Net installed cost: £3,500 - £8,500 (after £7,500 grant)
Vaillant aroTHERM - High Temperature Specialist
The Vaillant aroTHERM Plus is specifically designed for high-temperature applications, capable of heating water up to 75°C. Perfect for older properties with traditional radiators that require higher flow temperatures.
Capacity Range
3.5-15 kW
Wide range of outputs
Max Flow Temperature
Up to 75°C
Ideal for old radiators
Efficiency (SCOP)
Up to 5.03
A+++ ErP rating
Noise Level
30-54 dB(A)
Quiet Mark certified
High Temperature Benefits
- Perfect for Retrofits: Works with existing radiator systems
- Fast Heating: Rapid warm-up times in cold weather
- Hot Water Performance: Excellent domestic hot water production
- Older Property Compatibility: Ideal for poorly insulated homes
✅ Pros
- High flow temperatures up to 75°C
- R290 natural refrigerant (low GWP)
- Easy installation and user-friendly design
- Compatible with existing heating systems
- Salt-resistant coating for coastal areas
- 7-year warranty available
❌ Cons
- myVaillant app can be difficult to use
- Higher running costs at high temperatures
- Limited cold weather performance
💰 Pricing
£3,786 - £6,082 (unit only, before BUS grant)
£11,500 - £16,500 (installed, before grant)
Net installed cost: £4,000 - £9,000 (after £7,500 grant)
LG Therma V - Best Value for Money
The LG Therma V offers excellent value for money, providing reliable performance at an affordable price point. It's an ideal choice for homeowners seeking quality heat pump technology without the premium price tag.
Capacity Range
5-16 kW
Multiple output options
Efficiency (COP)
2.7-4.9
Good efficiency ratings
Operating Range
-25°C to +46°C
Wide operating range
Max Flow Temperature
Up to 80°C
High temperature variants
Value Features
- Affordable Pricing: Most cost-effective option in our guide
- Long Lifespan: Up to 20 years with minimal degradation
- Split & Monobloc Options: Flexible installation configurations
- R32 Refrigerant: Modern, efficient refrigerant
- High Temperature Models: Some units heat water to 80°C
✅ Pros
- Most affordable option in our comparison
- Proven 20-year lifespan
- Ideal for 2-3 bedroom homes
- Good cold weather performance
- Multiple configuration options
- Competitive efficiency ratings
❌ Cons
- Customer service response times
- Compatibility issues with underfloor heating
- Requires separate hot water tank
💰 Pricing
£2,655 - £4,550 (unit only, before BUS grant)
£9,000 - £13,000 (installed, before grant)
Net installed cost: £1,500 - £5,500 (after £7,500 grant)
Panasonic Aquarea - Advanced Technology
The Panasonic Aquarea L Series represents cutting-edge heat pump technology, featuring R290 natural refrigerant, advanced controls, and exceptional build quality. Winner of Red Dot and IF Design awards in 2023.
Capacity Range
5-9 kW
Compact range focus
Efficiency (SCOP)
Up to 5.06
Industry-leading efficiency
Max Flow Temperature
Up to 75°C
High temperature capability
Noise Level
52-63 dB(A)
Quiet operation
Advanced Features
- R290 Natural Refrigerant: Lowest GWP (Global Warming Potential = 3)
- Comfort Cloud App: Advanced smartphone control
- Service Cloud Integration: Remote monitoring by installers
- All-in-One Design: Integrated hot water cylinder
- U-Vacua Technology: Multi-layer insulation for efficiency
- 7-Year Warranty: With Panasonic Pro Partners
✅ Pros
- Highest efficiency ratings (SCOP 5.06)
- Award-winning design and technology
- Eco-friendly R290 refrigerant
- Excellent Wi-Fi integration
- Remote monitoring capabilities
- Perfect for retrofit applications
❌ Cons
- Limited capacity range (5-9kW only)
- Higher initial cost
- Not suitable for very large homes
💰 Pricing
£3,430 - £7,920 (unit only, before BUS grant)
£11,000 - £16,000 (installed, before grant)
Net installed cost: £3,500 - £8,500 (after £7,500 grant)
Grant Aerona³ R32 - Best for Large Homes
The Grant Aerona³ R32 is specifically designed for larger properties with high heating demands. With outputs up to 17kW and excellent efficiency, it's perfect for 4-5 bedroom homes with multiple bathrooms.
Capacity Range
6-17 kW
High capacity options
Efficiency (SCOP)
Up to 4.8
A+++ ErP rating
Property Size
1-5 bedrooms
Up to 2 bathrooms
Warranty
Up to 7 years
Extended coverage
Large Home Features
- High Output Range: 6kW to 17kW for large properties
- Multiple Zone Support: Suitable for complex heating systems
- S-Plan Compatible: Works with existing heating controls
- Retrofit Friendly: Easy integration with existing systems
- Quiet Mark Certified: Low noise operation
✅ Pros
- Excellent for large properties (up to 17kW)
- 7-year warranty available
- Quiet Mark certification
- Easy maintenance and servicing
- Compatible with smart controllers
- Good value for high-capacity units
❌ Cons
- Limited to larger capacity requirements
- Higher installation complexity
- Annual servicing recommended
💰 Pricing
£4,500 - £8,500 (unit only, before BUS grant)
£13,000 - £20,000 (installed, before grant)
Net installed cost: £5,500 - £12,500 (after £7,500 grant)
Ideal Logic Air - Most Efficient
The Ideal Logic Air achieves the highest SCOP rating of 5.19, making it the most efficient heat pump in our comparison. Perfect for homeowners prioritizing maximum energy savings and environmental benefits.
Capacity Range
4-10 kW
Medium home focus
Efficiency (SCOP)
Up to 5.19
Highest in market
Max Flow Temperature
55°C at 7°C
Optimized for efficiency
Noise Level
52-55 dB(A)
Quiet Mark approved
Efficiency Benefits
- Record SCOP 5.19: Produces 5.19 units of heat per unit of electricity
- Maximum Savings: Lowest running costs in our comparison
- Optimized Performance: Best efficiency at 35°C (5.04) and 50°C (3.96)
- Smart Grid Ready: Compatible with renewable energy systems
- Solar Integration: Works seamlessly with solar PV
✅ Pros
- Highest efficiency rating (SCOP 5.19)
- Competitive pricing for performance
- Monobloc design for easy installation
- Compatible with renewable energy
- Quiet Mark approval
- R32 refrigerant
❌ Cons
- Limited to 55°C maximum temperature
- Not suitable for high temperature applications
- Medium capacity range only
💰 Pricing
£3,200 - £4,304 (unit only, before BUS grant)
£10,000 - £14,000 (installed, before grant)
Net installed cost: £2,500 - £6,500 (after £7,500 grant)
Heat Pump Comparison Table
| Brand & Model | Capacity (kW) | SCOP Rating | Max Flow Temp | Noise Level | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viessmann Vitocal | 2.1-14.9 kW | Up to 5.0 | 70°C | 30-56 dB(A) | £5,620-£11,375 | Overall best performance |
| Mitsubishi Ecodan | 5-17 kW | Up to 4.8 | 75°C | 45-58 dB(A) | £2,600-£5,800 | Reliability & UK support |
| Daikin Altherma 3 | 4-18 kW | 4.5-5.12 | 70°C | 43-60 dB(A) | £4,141-£6,142 | Cold climate performance |
| Samsung EHS | 5-16 kW | Up to 4.9 | 65°C | 35-55 dB(A) | £3,385-£8,000 | Quiet operation |
| Vaillant aroTHERM | 3.5-15 kW | Up to 5.03 | 75°C | 30-54 dB(A) | £3,786-£6,082 | High temperature needs |
| LG Therma V | 5-16 kW | 2.7-4.9 | 80°C | Variable | £2,655-£4,550 | Budget-conscious buyers |
| Panasonic Aquarea | 5-9 kW | Up to 5.06 | 75°C | 52-63 dB(A) | £3,430-£7,920 | Advanced technology |
| Grant Aerona³ | 6-17 kW | Up to 4.8 | Variable | Quiet Mark | £4,500-£8,500 | Large homes |
| Ideal Logic Air | 4-10 kW | Up to 5.19 | 55°C | 52-55 dB(A) | £3,200-£4,304 | Maximum efficiency |
📋 Comparison Notes
- SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance): Higher numbers mean better efficiency
- Max Flow Temperature: Higher temperatures needed for older radiator systems
- Noise Levels: Lower dB(A) ratings mean quieter operation
- Prices: Unit costs before installation and BUS grant
- All models: Eligible for £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant
Heat Pump Costs & Pricing Guide
💰 Total Installation Costs
Small Home (2-3 bed)
Heat Pump: £3,000 - £6,000
Installation: £4,000 - £8,000
Additional Works: £1,000 - £3,000
Total: £8,000 - £17,000
After BUS Grant: £500 - £9,500
Medium Home (3-4 bed)
Heat Pump: £4,000 - £8,000
Installation: £5,000 - £10,000
Additional Works: £2,000 - £5,000
Total: £11,000 - £23,000
After BUS Grant: £3,500 - £15,500
Large Home (4-5+ bed)
Heat Pump: £6,000 - £12,000
Installation: £6,000 - £12,000
Additional Works: £3,000 - £8,000
Total: £15,000 - £32,000
After BUS Grant: £7,500 - £24,500
🔧 Additional Installation Costs
Radiator Upgrades
£200 - £800 per radiator
May be needed for optimal efficiency
Hot Water Cylinder
£800 - £2,500
Required if no existing cylinder
Electrical Upgrades
£500 - £2,000
May need consumer unit upgrade
Pipework & Controls
£1,000 - £3,000
New heating controls and pipes
⚡ Annual Running Costs
Gas Boiler (Old)
£1,200 - £2,000
85-90% efficiency
Heat Pump
£800 - £1,400
300-500% efficiency
Potential Annual Savings: £400 - £600
Savings increase with higher gas prices and lower electricity prices
Heat Pump Installation Guide
🔧 Installation Process
Initial Survey
Professional assessment of your property, heating needs, and existing system. Heat loss calculation and site survey.
Duration: 2-3 hours
System Design
Custom heat pump system design based on your property requirements. Equipment selection and installation plan.
Duration: 1-2 weeks
Equipment Delivery
Heat pump unit, cylinder, controls, and accessories delivered to site. Pre-installation checks completed.
Duration: 1-2 days
Installation
Professional installation of outdoor unit, indoor components, pipework, electrical connections, and controls.
Duration: 2-5 days
Commissioning
System testing, optimization, and handover. Training on controls and maintenance requirements.
Duration: 1 day
🏠 Installation Requirements
Outdoor Space
- Minimum 1m clearance from boundaries
- Level, stable surface for unit
- Good air circulation
- Access for maintenance
Electrical Supply
- Dedicated circuit from consumer unit
- Adequate electrical capacity
- RCD protection required
- May need consumer unit upgrade
Indoor Space
- Space for hot water cylinder (if needed)
- Room for new heating controls
- Access for pipework routing
- Adequate ventilation
Existing System
- Property insulation assessment
- Radiator sizing check
- Pipework condition review
- Hot water system evaluation
👷 Choosing an Installer
✅ Essential Qualifications
- MCS Certification: Required for BUS grant eligibility
- F-Gas Certification: Legal requirement for refrigerant work
- Electrical Qualifications: Part P or equivalent
- Insurance: Public liability and professional indemnity
- Manufacturer Training: Brand-specific certification
❓ Questions to Ask Installers
- How many heat pumps have you installed?
- Can you provide local references?
- What warranty do you offer on installation?
- Will you handle the BUS grant application?
- What after-sales support do you provide?
- How long will the installation take?
Government Grants & Financial Support
💷 Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
Up to £7,500 Grant
Available for air source heat pump installations
Eligibility Criteria
- Replacing a fossil fuel heating system (gas, oil, LPG)
- Property in England or Wales
- MCS-certified installer required
- Heat pump must meet minimum efficiency standards
- EPC rating of D or above (with some exceptions)
🎯 Other Financial Support
📝 Grant Application Process
1. Choose MCS Installer
Select an MCS-certified installer from our directory
2. Get Quote
Installer provides detailed quote including grant application
3. Grant Application
Installer submits application to Ofgem on your behalf
4. Installation
Work proceeds once grant approval received
5. Grant Payment
Grant paid directly to installer, reducing your final bill
Frequently Asked Questions
How efficient are air source heat pumps?
Modern air source heat pumps achieve 300-500% efficiency (SCOP 3.0-5.0), meaning they produce 3-5 units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed. This is 3-4 times more efficient than the best gas boilers.
Do heat pumps work in cold weather?
Yes! Modern heat pumps work efficiently down to -20°C or even -28°C. While efficiency decreases in very cold weather, they continue to provide heating and are much more efficient than electric heaters.
How much does a heat pump cost to run?
Running costs depend on electricity prices, home insulation, and usage patterns. Typical annual costs range from £800-£1,400, often £400-£600 less than gas boilers, especially as gas prices increase.
Can I get a grant for a heat pump?
Yes! The Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides up to £7,500 for air source heat pump installations when replacing gas, oil, or LPG boilers. You also benefit from 0% VAT until March 2027.
Do I need to upgrade my radiators?
Not always. Many modern heat pumps work with existing radiators, especially high-temperature models. However, larger radiators or underfloor heating can improve efficiency and comfort.
How noisy are heat pumps?
Modern heat pumps are much quieter than older models. The quietest units operate at 35-45 dB(A), similar to a quiet refrigerator. Most are between 45-60 dB(A), comparable to normal conversation.
How long do heat pumps last?
Well-maintained heat pumps typically last 15-25 years. They require annual servicing, similar to gas boilers, but have fewer moving parts and are generally very reliable.
Can heat pumps provide hot water?
Yes! Air source heat pumps can heat domestic hot water to 60-65°C, sufficient for all household needs. Some models can reach 80°C for older systems requiring higher temperatures.
Do I need planning permission?
Usually not. Most heat pump installations fall under permitted development rights. However, you may need planning permission for listed buildings, conservation areas, or if noise levels exceed certain limits.
What maintenance do heat pumps need?
Annual servicing by a qualified engineer is recommended, costing £150-£300. This includes checking refrigerant levels, cleaning filters, and ensuring optimal performance. Day-to-day maintenance is minimal.
Ready to Install a Heat Pump?
Find MCS-certified installers in your area and get up to £7,500 government grant