Debunking popular heat pump myths

What is a heat pump?

Before diving into popular heat pump myths, let’s first clarify what a heat pump actually is. Simply put, a heat pump is a device that transfers heat from one place to another, effectively providing both heating for a home (and cooling in some cases too).

In colder months, it extracts heat from the outside air, ground, or water and transfers this heat indoors. In the warmer months, some heat pumps can reverse the process, by transferring heat from inside the house to the source outside.

10 popular heat pump myths

Now let’s take a look at some common heat pump myths and uncover the truth behind each one.

Myth #1: Heat pumps take up a lot of space

Although ground and water source heat pumps generally require more space, this isn’t the case for air source heat pumps. Most air source heat pump systems consist of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, both of which can be installed without needing a large amount of space.

With various options available, heat pumps can fit into different home layouts, making them a practical choice for both small and large spaces alike.

Myth #2: Heat pumps are noisy

Whilst early heat pump models may have been loud, advancements in technology have made modern heat pumps impressively quiet.

Most units operate at a gentle hum at around 40 to 60dB, about the same level as the average combi boiler. This means that they blend seamlessly into the background noise of a home.

Myth #3: Heat pumps are too expensive

Although the upfront cost of a heat pump can seem high it’s important to consider the long-term savings they offer. Heat pumps are highly energy-efficient and often reduce energy bills, especially when compared to traditional and older systems.

In the UK, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme also provides grants to help cover some of the cost of replacing a fossil fuel heating system. With financial incentives like these, heat pumps can become a smart, cost-effective investment over time.

Myth #4: Heat pumps don’t work in winter

Modern heat pumps are designed to perform in cold weather. Even in weather conditions below freezing, research shows that heat pumps are more than twice as efficient as fossil fuel heating in cold temperatures!

Their advanced technology allows these units to extract heat from the air even in winter, making them a reliable choice for year-round comfort.

Myth #5: You can only install air source heat pumps in new builds

Heat pump installation isn’t restricted to new builds, they can be installed in a wide range of buildings from older homes to modern apartments.

You may need to make some changes to an existing home to make the heat pump more efficient, like more insulation, updated pipework or larger radiators.

Myth #6: Heat pumps only work with underfloor heating

While underfloor heating pairs well with heat pumps and is more efficient due to having a larger heat emitter area, it’s not the only option.

Heat pumps can also work effectively with traditional panel radiators which makes them versatile for a range of home setups. To get the most out of your heat pump without underfloor heating, you may need larger radiators, as well as ensuring your home is properly insulated.

Myth #7: Heat pumps are only used for heating

Heat pumps aren’t just for heating, they can also provide both heating and cooling if they have been built with this functionality.

In the winter, they transfer heat from the outside to warm your home, and in the summer, the process can be reversed, allowing them to cool indoor spaces by transferring the heat outdoors.

This dual functionality makes heat pumps a convenient, all-year-round solution for maintaining a comfortable home environment.

Myth #8: A heat pump needs frequent maintenance

Many people think heat pumps require constant upkeep, but in reality, they’re designed to be low maintenance. Just like boilers, you must service heat pumps annually, but they don’t require more attention than other systems.

Routine tasks such as cleaning filters and clearing debris from the outdoor unit are simple and infrequent. With minimal care, a heat pump can reliably serve a home for many years without an issue.

Myth #9: Heat pumps use electricity, so they won't cut carbon emissions

It’s true that heat pumps use electricity but they’re far more energy-efficient than conventional heating systems, such as gas or oil boilers.

Heat pumps can produce three to four units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed, significantly reducing the amount of energy required to heat a home. By using electricity efficiently, heat pumps offer a cleaner and greener solution for heating.

Myth #10: Heat pumps need planning permission

In most cases, heat pumps do not require special planning permission as long as they meet the necessary criteria.

For example, in the UK, an air-source heat pump can often be installed without planning permission under permitted development rights, as long as it follows the permitted development criteria.

Ground and water source heat pumps also usually don’t require permission, though larger installations or those in protected areas may need a planning review.

It’s always best to check local guidelines as requirements can vary by location and system type, but overall planning restrictions are minimal for most residential installations.

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