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Heat Pump Cost Calculator

Get a realistic estimate for your property - including the BUS grant, running costs, and hidden extras most calculators leave out. No email required.

Full cost breakdownBUS grant includedRunning cost comparisonNo email wall
Air source heat pump unit installed outside a UK home

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How this calculator works

Our heat pump calculator estimates the installed cost, annual running costs, and payback period for your property. You select your property type and size, current heating system, and insulation level. The tool then recommends a suitable system capacity and calculates costs for both air source and ground source options, including the unit, hot water cylinder, pipework, electrical work, and MCS certification.

The BUS grant (Boiler Upgrade Scheme) is automatically applied where eligible, reducing the upfront cost by up to £7,500. Running cost comparisons show what you would pay annually versus your current heating system, factoring in the heat pump's coefficient of performance (COP) and current UK energy tariffs. Homes with poor insulation are flagged, as heat pumps work most efficiently in well-insulated properties.

These are budgeting estimates based on average costs from MCS-certified installers across the UK. Your actual quote will depend on the specific system, your property's heating demand, and any additional work needed such as radiator upgrades or underfloor heating. Always get at least three quotes from MCS-certified installers before proceeding.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a heat pump cost in the UK in 2026?
An air source heat pump typically costs £8,000–£18,000 installed, depending on property size and system capacity. Ground source heat pumps range from £15,000–£35,000. The BUS grant knocks £7,500 off for eligible properties.
What is the BUS grant for heat pumps?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) gives homeowners in England and Wales £7,500 towards the cost of an air source or ground source heat pump. You need an Energy Performance Certificate and an MCS-certified installer to qualify.
Are heat pumps cheaper to run than gas boilers?
In most cases, yes. An air source heat pump typically costs £700–£1,100 per year to run for an average 3-bed home, compared to £900–£1,200 for a gas boiler. The savings are larger if you are switching from oil, LPG, or electric storage heaters.
Do I need new radiators for a heat pump?
Possibly. Heat pumps run at lower flow temperatures than boilers, so standard radiators may not give out enough heat. You might need to upgrade to larger double-panel radiators, which typically costs £200–£400 each. Oversized radiators or underfloor heating usually work fine as they are.
How long does a heat pump take to pay for itself?
With the BUS grant, payback is typically 5–12 years depending on your current heating system and property. Switching from oil or LPG gives the fastest payback. From gas, it takes a bit longer but you benefit from lower carbon emissions.

How we calculate these estimates

Our estimates are based on average installed costs from MCS-certified heat pump installers across the UK, adjusted for your region, property size, and insulation level. Prices include the heat pump unit, hot water cylinder, pipework, electrical work, labour, and MCS certification. Actual costs vary depending on the specific system, installer, and site conditions. Always get at least three quotes from MCS-certified installers before going ahead.

Our methodology|Last updated: April 2026