Joe Raftery at Samsung Climate Solutions explores the most common myths around heat pumps and explains how modern systems offer a reliable option for UK homes.
More UK homeowners than ever before are looking for modern, efficient ways to heat their homes. With government approved data indicating an upward trend in terms of heat pump deployment, the technology has become a mainstream consideration for households across the country. Air-to-water heat pumps have been heating homes across the UK for decades.
Put simply, a heat pump is a part of a heating system that can be installed outside a property. It draws in air across an outside radiator using a large fan. This radiator is filled with refrigerant, which boils at a lower temperature than water. The refrigerant is then compressed, increasing its temperature, and passes over a heat exchanger, like in your common heating boiler. The heat then goes into your radiators or underfloor heating system. This refrigerant cycle is what makes a heat pump so thermally efficient.
SUITABLE IN LOW TEMPERATURES
While many think heat pumps can’t work in cold weather that is not the case. In fact, according to the International Energy Agency, Scandinavian nations – where winter conditions are far harsher than in the UK – have some of the highest heat pump installation rates in the world, proving that freezing weather does not limit uptake of this technology. In the UK, air-to-water heat pumps must achieve an average SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance) of 2.8 minimum to meet MCS compliance. This means heat pumps must emit 2800 watts of heat for every 1000 watts of electricity the heat pump consumes to be admitted to the MCS product register.
Systems are designed to perform reliably at outdoor temperatures as low as -25°C. This demonstrates that low temperatures are not a barrier to a well designed and correctly installed system, while achieving a SCOP of up to five with well designed heating systems.
LOW NOISE LEVELS
Another common concern is that heat pumps generate considerable noise which could disrupt the home environment. This stems from outdated ideas rather than real-world performance of modern units, as, in practice, the sound level from a modern external heat pump is low – roughly similar to that of a large, American-style fridge freezer. It is noticeable only when standing close to the outdoor unit and generally fades into the background of everyday life.
Good installation planning helps reduce noise further. For outdoor units, the heat pump should be positioned on a stable base with enough space around it, preventing vibration and improving airflow. Ultimately, when installed to MCS standards, a modern heat pump should not disrupt the household or neighbours.
SIMPLE TO USE
Some homeowners feel unsure about heat pump controls, assuming the technology must be complex. In reality, once installed, the systems are straightforward to operate. Many offer smart controls or user-friendly interfaces. This visibility helps users understand how small adjustments can improve comfort and efficiency.
MINIMAL SPACE REQUIRED
Another concern is that heat pumps require large amounts of unavailable space to operate.
While there is no universal heat pump size, in practice modern and compact units can be ideally positioned in a garden, against an external wall or even on a flat roof. The indoor components including a hot water cylinder generally take up a similar amount of space as a traditional hot water tank, for instance in a utility room or airing cupboard.
An installer will select the right system for a property based on a heat loss calculation, which identifies how much warmth a building loses through its walls, windows, and roof. For self-builders, this calculation can be incorporated early in the design process. For renovators, an installer will assess the existing structure and advise on placement.
WORKING WITH EXISTING RADIATORS
Many also believe that heat pumps cannot work with existing radiators, which is a myth. While some homes benefit from upgrades, when designed correctly, heat pumps can integrate with a range of emitters, including radiators and underfloor heating. Radiators need to be the right size for the room and lower flow temperatures used by heat pumps, but often this requires only small changes in certain rooms.
For self-builders, designing a heating system around a heat pump from the outset of a project is the simplest solution.
LOOKING AHEAD
As expectations around comfort and energy efficiency continue to grow, heat pumps are a reliable heating option for those looking to create homes that are fit-for-purpose. Support schemes like the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which currently enables funding of £7,500 for qualifying heat pump installations, make heat pumps increasingly accessible.
For self-builders and renovators, having early conversations with qualified installers is the best way to understand what is possible with your property. Independent organisations such as Nesta and the Energy Saving Trust, along with manufacturer websites also offer helpful guidance for those starting their journey. With myths addressed and facts understood self-builders will be able to approach their projects with confidence and clarity.
Joe Raftery is heating product manager at Samsung Climate Solutions