Air source heat pump installation guide
Thinking about installing an air source heat pump but not sure what’s involved, how long it takes, or what to expect?
From your first quote to installation day and beyond, this guide walks you through every step.
Or, you can simply enter your postcode and get started!
What happens during your consultation?
To make sure we give you an accurate quote and design a system that works for your home, we need to know about your current set up.
Once you've answered a few basic questions online, we'll contact you and complete a free, no obligation telephone consultation so we can discuss:
- Your home’s current insulation and heating system (radiators, underfloor heating, etc.)
- Desired temperature levels
- Where we could install your heat pump and cylinder (if necessary)
- What sort of heat pump system could be suitable for your property
- Whether your radiators need upgrading
Then we'll give you a no-obligation quote and, once you've confirmed you’re ready to proceed, we’ll take a deposit of £850 (even if you're paying with finance) and have you sign your contract to secure the order.
Why choose EDF for your air source heat pump?
Our Heat Pump Promise
We only install heat pumps we’re confident will keep your home warm. But, if it doesn’t perform as promised, we’ll give you your money back.
Which? Trusted Trader
EDF Heat Pumps have met high standards for quality, reliability and customer service, so you can be confident you're choosing an installer that delivers on performance and value.
MCS certified
MCS is the UK’s quality mark for heat pumps, setting the standards for installers and the products they use, highlighting quality, competency and compliance. Accreditation is required to access government grants.
How does the home survey and design process work?
Once you have confirmed you are happy with your quote and placed your order, what happens next?
We'll book a provisional installation date and arrange a time for a member of our team to visit your home and take measurements, gather some details and take photos. We'll use these for our heat loss calculations so our team can design a bespoke system for you.
When we've finished our design, we'll check in with you to make sure you're happy and then we'll send some documents for you to approve.
How is an air source heat pump installed?
Day 1: Site prep and installation start
The installers usually arrive early to go over the design and walk you through the process. They’ll put down coverings, unpack and check all of the equipment, and once the system has been drained, they’ll get started with the installation.
Day 2: Pipework and electrical connections setup
Once the units are in place, the installers get to work fitting the pipes and electrical connections. There may be a short power shutdown while the electrical work is carried out, but they’ll keep any disruption to a minimum.
Day 3: Radiator upgrades and system switchover
If your plan includes radiator upgrades, these will be done to help improve efficiency. The team installs the heat pump system first to keep downtime to a minimum, then they will remove your boiler and switch everything over to your new heat pump.
Day 4/5: System testing and setup
The system is then commissioned, with everything checked, filled, and tested to make sure it’s running properly. The installers will set up the controls, walk you through how it all works, and help you get any relevant apps up and running.
We’ll then ask you to settle the remaining balance, which is due within 7 days of your installation date.
Where can a heat pump be installed?
Air source heat pumps are flexible and can be installed in a variety of homes, whether it’s a flat, an older house, or a terraced home.(1) Generally, you'll need about 2 meters by 1 meter (roughly 6.5 feet by 3 feet) of clear outdoor space to make sure the heat pump operates efficiently.
The external unit must always be placed outdoors as it draws in air to generate energy, but the indoor components, such as the cylinder and controls, can be placed in spaces like garages, airing cupboards, or even spare rooms and basements.
"It's the best investment we've ever made "
"Being cold in this house is something we'd always had but we don't have that any more. It's cosy and warm all year round."
- Caroline, EDF Heat Pump customer
What happens after your heat pump installation?
Last of all, we’ll inspect and hand over your new heat pump, ready to start warming your home.
We'll register your system with MCS and issue your warranty documentation, guarantee, and completion certificates.
We recommend an annual service for your air source heat pump to keep it running smoothly and maintain its warranty.
Here’s what’s covered during servicing:
- Cleaning filters
- Checking water pressure
- Inspecting the heat pump
- Looking for leaks and checking safety devices
If a manufacturer cylinder is installed this will also be part of the servicing, ensuring all safety features are checked.
Heat pump installation FAQs
Can I install a heat pump myself?
We highly recommend leaving it to the professionals. An installer's role goes beyond just installing units; they design a heat pump system tailored to your home's needs and make sure it runs efficiently for years. They also know how to handle any unexpected issues during installation.
If you install the heat pump yourself, you will not receive the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) government grant. To receive the BUS grant the heat pump must be designed, supplied and installed by a MCS approved installer, such as EDF Heat Pumps.
How do I choose the right heat pump installer?
Here are three things to look out for:
- Accreditations: choose an installer who is accredited by the Microgeneration Certification scheme (MCS). This means that the installer has undergone installer training and adheres to industry standards.
- Experience and expertise: look for installers with a proven track record and extensive experience installing air source heat pumps for a range of different homes.
- Reviews: Feedback from other customers can give you valuable insight into the installer's professionalism and customer service.
Do you need planning permission to install a heat pump?
In most cases, you don’t need planning permission to install a heat pump, especially if it’s a typical air source model that we install. However, if you live in a listed building or a conservation area, you'll likely need planning permission. We recommend reaching out to your local planning office for more guidance. We'll also be here to help with any questions you may have about planning permissions.
Are there regulations around heat pump installations?
Yes, and regulations can vary depending on where you are. Generally, you’ll need to make sure the installation complies with local building codes, energy efficiency standards, and sometimes zoning laws.
For example, heat pumps can now be installed closer to a property boundary, as long as it meets the acoustic rules and won't be too noisy for your neighbours, and is installed by a certified professional, like EDF heat pumps. But don’t worry - you won’t need to get to grips with the regulations yourself as we’ll take care of everything for you.
Does the heat pump need to be a certain distance away from neighbours?
When we do our home survey, we carry out a noise assessment to make sure the heat pump is suitable for its location and won't be too noisy. Rather than relying on just distance from the boundary, we take into account the position and orientation of the heat pump, nearby surfaces and the noise level at neighbouring properties.
More information can be found in the government's Review of Air Source Heat Pump Noise Emissions, Permitted Development Guidance and Regulations, but research shows that choosing a good location and proper installation are more important than a specific distance from a neighbour's boundary.
What is an air source heat pump?
Read our intro to heat pumps guide to learn about the pros and cons, the different types and how they work.
How much does an air source heat pump cost?
Learn about heat pump pricing and how much you could save with a more energy-efficient system.
Our air source heat pump tariffs
Save on energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint when you switch to our exclusive air source heat pump tariffs.
EDF Heat Pumps is a Which? Trusted Trader, proud to offer a unique network of accredited local professionals known for quality, reliability and outstanding customer service.