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Why are more London homeowners switching to air source heat pumps in 2025?

Across London, homeowners are replacing gas boilers with air source heat pumps to save money, cut carbon emissions and meet new housing regulations. With energy prices still high, and strong support from schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, heat pumps offer a clean, future ready alternative. They’re quieter, smarter and better suited to the needs of homes throughout London boroughs.

1. Save Money on Energy Bills All Year Round

Air source heat pumps generate more heat than the electricity they consume. Most systems reach a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of at least 3, meaning 3 kilowatts of heat are produced for every kilowatt of electricity used.

According to Ofgem and EPC data:

  • Smart meters help access off peak rates

  • Well insulated London homes retain heat longer

  • Electricity avoids volatile gas markets

A household spending £170 each month on gas could reduce this to around £95 with a heat pump, assuming proper insulation. In boroughs like Brent, Camden and Westminster, energy savings are improving as more homes undergo retrofit upgrades.

How much does it cost to run a heat pump over time?

Running costs depend on your property and tariff. Over ten years, most London homes save between £5,000 and £8,000 compared to gas systems. Off peak rates or solar panel combinations can improve savings further.

Pro Tip: If your home is mid terrace or in a conservation area, always check with your borough before installing.

2. Take Advantage of Government Grants and Financial Help

As of the latest available government guidance, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers a £7,500 grant for air source heat pump installation, though this amount may be subject to review or change. As of 2025, installations are zero VAT rated under current government policy, though this may be subject to future changes, and many London boroughs offer further retrofit support.

Keep in mind:

  • Most homes in London do not require planning permission, though it’s important to check with your local borough council, particularly if your property is listed or in a conservation area

  • Installers must be MCS and TrustMark accredited

  • Clean air grants or borough incentives may apply

An approved installer will confirm what funding you’re eligible for and handle the grant paperwork.

What does the installation timeline look like?

In London, installations typically take two to four weeks from start to finish:

  • Property assessment and survey

  • Grant application and approval

  • Heat pump and parts delivery

  • Full installation and system testing

RightAir, a certified London based heat pump installer, supports homeowners through each step.

3. Cut Your Carbon Footprint with Greener Home Heating

London homes using electricity powered systems help reduce citywide emissions. Air source heat pumps are central to meeting London’s climate targets and improving property energy performance.

Why it matters:

  • Lower lifetime emissions and cleaner refrigerants

  • EPC ratings typically rise, improving resale value, a 2023 Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities report found that properties moving from an EPC band D to C gained an average of 5 to 10 percent in market value

  • Up to 75 percent less carbon output versus gas boilers

Combining a heat pump with solar panels or a green electricity tariff maximises environmental impact.

Pro Tip:Pairing a heat pump with solar panels can maximise savings and qualify for additional tariffs.

4. Enjoy Better Comfort, Quieter Operation and Smart Controls

London homes vary in layout and size, but heat pumps work well across flats, terraces and semis. They maintain an even indoor temperature without the constant cycling of a gas boiler.

Expect:

  • Quiet outdoor units rated below 40 decibels

  • App controlled heating via Nest, Tado or Hive

  • Zoned comfort across multiple rooms

This setup offers comfort and smart energy control that suits London’s modern lifestyle.

5. Future Proof Your Home Against New Regulations

With new builds in London already required to exclude gas boilers, existing homes must also prepare for EPC tightening and long term heating law changes.

Switching now means:

  • Meeting net zero goals ahead of time

  • Increasing your property’s value and compliance

  • Being eligible for smart export tariffs and retrofit funding

Early adoption helps avoid expensive last minute upgrades and ensures market appeal.

Real London Homeowner Examples: What Do Savings Look Like?

In Queen’s Park, a three bedroom semi detached home switched from a combi boiler to an air source heat pump. After adding loft insulation, they reduced annual energy bills by nearly £900.

In Hampstead, a landlord upgraded a Victorian flat with a heat pump, solar panels and smart heating controls. The EPC rating improved from D to B, helping attract low energy tenants.

These examples reflect growing savings potential across the capital.

Do Heat Pumps Work in Cold Weather? Common Concerns Answered

Yes. Heat pumps designed for the UK continue to perform in freezing conditions. They include defrost features and weather responsive control settings.

Frequently asked questions:

Will I need new radiators? Sometimes. A heat loss survey checks if radiator upgrades are necessary.

Are heat pumps noisy? No. Most models operate quieter than everyday appliances.

Is planning permission needed? Usually not. Most London homes qualify under permitted development rights.

A local MCS installer like RightAir will confirm details during your site visit.

What makes a London home suitable for a heat pump?

Suitable homes have decent insulation and enough space outdoors for a unit. A heat loss survey confirms performance potential. Homes with south facing roofs benefit even more when solar panels are included.

Can I combine a heat pump with solar panels?

Yes. This is increasingly common in London where energy prices are high and space is limited. It reduces electric bills and increases grid independence.

What about hybrid heating systems?

Hybrid systems pair a heat pump with your current boiler. The heat pump manages daily needs, while the boiler supports on colder days.

Benefits include:

  • Reduced gas consumption across the year
  • Flexible heating control in varied climates
  • Lower upfront change for hesitant households

It’s a smart option for older London properties or phased upgrades.

Why Now Is the Right Time to Switch

Air source heat pumps reduce energy costs, emissions and regulatory pressure. They’re efficient, quiet and ideal for London’s mix of property types. Grants and local incentives make 2025 a strong year to act.

What to Do Next

Contact RightAir, an MCS certified and TrustMark approved installer operating across London. Book your property survey, check grant eligibility and review insulation upgrades. Switching now helps future proof your home and makes it more efficient, comfortable and valuable.

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