How Efficient Are Heat Pumps? A Comprehensive Guide (2024)

Heat pumps are steadily becoming a popular addition to households in the UK. This is mainly due to heat pump efficiency, which allows homeowners to reduce their carbon footprint by as much as 1900kg and save up to £550 yearly compared to a gas boiler. 

In this guide, we’ll answer the question, “How efficient are heat pumps?” and explain the importance of high efficiency ratings. We’ll also compare heat pump efficiency to that of other heating systems to give you an idea of how installing a heat pump could benefit your home. 

Ready to reap the financial and environmental rewards of investing in a heat pump? Then start your renewable energy journey today by filling in our 30-second form to request quotes from up to 4 heat pump installers near you. It’s quick, easy, and completely free!

Yes, heat pumps are highly efficient energy systems, with efficiency ratings of up to 450% for a ground source heat pump and up to 350% for an air source heat pump. This means that for each unit of electricity they consume, they generate between 3.5 and 4.5 units of usable energy for your home. 

But how is that different from the efficiency of other heating systems? Take a look at the overview below to see how heat pumps compare to boiler efficiency:

It’s good to know that when it comes to air source heat pumps, there is a slight difference between the efficiency of an air to air heat pump and an air to water heat pump. The former has lower efficiency levels, reaching up to 250%, whereas air to water systems are 350% efficient. 

Even so, the efficiency of heat pumps is considerably higher than that of boilers. So, if you’re ready to replace a boiler with a heat pump, you can be sure that it will be a worthwhile investment in terms of efficiency.

While heat pump efficiency can be indicated in percentages, it can also be calculated in terms of Coefficient of Performance (CoP). Just like percentages, CoP indicates how much energy a heat pump generates per unit of electricity consumed.

Typically, the CoP of air source heat pumps reaches up to 3.5, whereas that of a ground source heat pump is around 4.5. However, in the case of air source heat pumps, outside temperature can lead to a decrease in CoP ratings. You can consult the heat pump efficiency chart below for a better idea of the conditions in which this happens:

What makes heat pumps as efficient as they are is the fact that they transfer heat rather than generating it themselves like traditional heating systems. Air and ground source heat pumps work by extracting heat from either the air outside or from the ground and transferring it into your home. 

This happens through a refrigeration cycle through which the heat from the air or the ground is absorbed by a refrigerant and compressed to warm up further before being transported into the house. This process can also be reversed for cooling purposes. Because they use existing warmth to function, heat pumps require less energy to operate. 

What this means for you is that switching to an energy efficient heat pump can help you reduce your carbon footprint and energy bills in the long run. So, if you’re considering a ground or air source heat pump installation, you’ll want to find the right professional for the job. 

Thankfully, you don’t have to search any further and waste hours of your precious free time. We’ve vetted multiple heat pump installers and can connect you with up to 4 of them in no time. Just fill in our 30-second form and you’ll receive free, non-binding quotes that you can compare to secure the best deal for your home. Click below to start now!

A common question when it comes to heat pumps is: “Do heat pumps work in cold weather?” The answer is yes! However, if you have an air source heat pump, you might notice a drop in heat pump efficiency in the UK during the winter months if temperatures are below freezing. 

At temperatures closer to -25°C, the efficiency of an air source heat pump can drop from 350% to about 100%. Fortunately, such conditions are extremely rare in the UK, so you shouldn’t notice a significant impact of the weather on your heat pump.

Nevertheless, to avoid any potential issues with your appliance once temperatures begin to drop, you should choose one of the best air source heat pumps on the market. These have a higher chance of operating efficiently even in extremely cold conditions. 

When it comes to ground source heat pumps, these only begin to lose their efficiency in temperatures as low as -40°C. This is because they extract heat from the ground, which has consistent temperatures ranging from 5-15°C year round, so they are generally unaffected by weather conditions.

There are a few things you can do to maintain the efficiency of your heat pump, such as: 

If you’re looking to do your part for the planet by reducing your carbon emissions, then a heat pump could be a great option for you. On top of their lower environmental impact, heat pumps can also help you save up to £550 per year on your energy expenses. 

So, if these impressive advantages have convinced you, the next step towards getting a heat pump is getting in touch with a certified installer. They can give you tailored advice, help you find the best ground or air source heat pump cost for your home, and assist you with applying for heat pump grants if needed. 

No clue where to find a reliable installer to work with? Don’t worry - we’re here to help. We can have up to 4 local heat pump installers reach out to you with free, no-obligation quotes in no time. All you need to do is fill in our 30-second form, so click below to begin your renewable energy journey today!