How much does a heat pump cost to run?

Heat pumps efficiently warm your home, but their running costs depend on factors like electricity prices and system efficiency. They convert one unit of electricity into three or more units of heat, offering potential long-term savings over fossil fuel boilers, particularly with smart energy management.

Understanding heat pump running costs

The running cost of a heat pump is directly linked to how much electricity it consumes and the price you pay per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Unlike gas boilers, which burn fuel, heat pumps move heat from the outside air into your home, making them highly efficient.

Factors influencing your heat pump bill

Several elements combine to determine your heat pump's running costs:

• Electricity price: This is the most significant factor. The unit price of electricity, regulated by Ofgem, fluctuates and is typically higher than gas per kWh.
• System efficiency (COP/SCOP): A heat pump's Coefficient of Performance (COP) or Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) indicates how much heat it produces for each unit of electricity consumed. Higher efficiency means lower running costs.
• Property size and insulation: Larger homes or those with poor insulation require more energy to heat, increasing consumption.
• Outside air temperature: Heat pumps work harder in colder weather, which can reduce efficiency and increase electricity use.
• Your heating habits: How often and how high you set your thermostat, as well as your hot water usage, directly impacts your bill.

The role of efficiency (COP)

Heat pumps are remarkably efficient because they transfer heat rather than generate it. Air source heat pumps can achieve efficiencies of 300% or more, meaning they produce at least 3 kWh of heat for every 1 kWh of electricity consumed. This high efficiency is why their running cost is directly tied to the unit price of electricity.

Heat pump vs gas boiler: running cost comparison

Comparing heat pump running costs with gas boilers involves more than just looking at unit prices, as heat pumps are significantly more efficient.

Average daily and annual costs

While electricity is typically more expensive per kWh than gas, the high efficiency of heat pumps can offset this difference. If your home is well-insulated, your running costs for a heat pump could be similar to, or even slightly less than, a gas boiler. Savings are more likely when replacing LPG or electric storage heaters.

Impact of energy price caps

Ofgem's energy price cap limits how much suppliers can charge per unit of gas and electricity, as well as the daily standing charge. These caps directly influence heat pump running costs, as electricity prices are a primary driver. Price caps change every three months, so running cost comparisons can shift.

Key factors affecting your heat pump's efficiency

The real-world efficiency of your heat pump system is influenced by your home's characteristics and how you use your heating.

Home insulation and property size

The better insulated your home, the less heat it loses, and the less your heat pump needs to work to maintain a comfortable temperature. Poor insulation can significantly increase running costs. Property size also plays a role; a larger home generally requires a larger heat pump and more energy to heat.

Outside air temperature

Heat pumps extract heat from the outside air. While modern heat pumps are designed to work efficiently in the UK's climate, their efficiency can decrease in extremely cold temperatures (below -15°C), requiring them to work harder and potentially use a backup heating system. However, such extreme temperatures are rare in most of the UK.

Your heating habits

Your personal preferences for warmth and hot water directly affect energy consumption. Lowering your thermostat by even one degree can lead to noticeable savings. Using heating controls effectively and avoiding overheating your home are simple ways to manage costs.

How to reduce your heat pump running costs

Taking an active role in managing your heat pump's operation can lead to significant savings.

Optimising settings and controls

Understanding and optimising your heat pump's settings is crucial. This includes:

• Setting the right flow temperature: Heat pumps are most efficient when operating at lower flow temperatures over longer periods.
• Using programmable thermostats: Schedule your heating to match your lifestyle, ensuring your home is warm when you need it and not wasting energy when you are out.
• Regular maintenance: Annual servicing ensures your heat pump operates at peak efficiency. Additionally, managing your energy payments, such as understanding how Direct Debit works, contributes to overall financial control.

Leveraging smart tariffs and the Fuse app

Smart tariffs are designed to offer cheaper electricity during off-peak hours, often when renewable energy generation is high. By shifting your heat pump's energy use to these periods, you can significantly reduce running costs.

Fuse's intuitive app provides real-time data on electricity consumption, helping you understand your energy use. This transparency empowers you to make informed decisions about when to heat your home, aligning with cheaper, greener energy periods.

Improving home energy efficiency

Beyond heat pump settings, improving your home's overall energy efficiency is paramount. This includes:

• Upgrading insulation: Loft, wall, and floor insulation reduce heat loss.
• Draught-proofing: Sealing gaps around windows and doors prevents heat escape.
• Considering radiator upgrades: Heat pumps often work best with larger radiators or underfloor heating systems that can distribute heat effectively at lower temperatures.

Is a heat pump worth it in the UK?

Deciding whether a heat pump is a worthwhile investment involves considering long-term savings, environmental benefits, and available government support.

Long-term savings and environmental benefits

While the upfront installation cost of an air source heat pump typically ranges from £7,000 to £15,000 before grants, the long-term operational expenses can be lower than traditional fossil fuel systems.

Environmentally, heat pumps are a cleaner alternative to burning fossil fuels. As the UK electricity grid becomes greener, the carbon emissions associated with running a heat pump will continue to decrease, contributing to a lower carbon footprint for your home.

Government grants and support

The UK government offers significant support to encourage the adoption of heat pumps. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) provides grants of £7,500 for air source and ground source heat pumps in England and Wales. For eligible households in England and Wales currently using heating oil or LPG and not connected to the gas grid, a temporary uplift means a grant of £9,000 is available until 31 March 2027.

It is important to note that the MCS-certified installer applies for the grant on your behalf, and the grant value is deducted from your installation quote. Homeowners do not apply directly for the BUS.