Heat Pump Installation in the UK
Installing an air source heat pump takes 2 to 3 days on site, but the full process from first survey to a running system usually spans 6 to 12 weeks. A proper heat loss survey, the right system size and an MCS-certified installer matter far more to the result than the brand on the unit.
Quick Answer
Heat pump installation takes 2 to 3 days on site for an air source system, within a 6 to 12 week end-to-end process covering survey, design, grant application and commissioning. It must be done by an MCS-certified installer to claim the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant.
Based on UK MCS-certified installer practice, 2026.
Fact-checked by John Rooney, Solar Energy Editor. Editorial policy
How is a heat pump installed?
- Heat loss survey. The installer visits to measure your home and calculate its heat loss, which sets the correct heat pump size. Be wary of any quote given without a home visit.
- System design. The installer sizes the heat pump, checks radiators and hot water cylinder, and specifies any upgrades for efficient low-temperature running.
- Quote and grant. You receive a fixed quote with the £7,500 BUS grant already deducted. The installer handles the grant application.
- Installation. The outdoor unit, cylinder and pipework go in over 2 to 3 days for a typical air source system.
- Commissioning. The system is tested, balanced and set up, and you are shown how the controls work.
- Handover. You get your MCS certificate, warranty paperwork and commissioning records.
How long does it take?
| Stage | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Survey to quote | 1–3 weeks |
| Design and grant application | 2–4 weeks |
| Equipment ordering and scheduling | 2–5 weeks |
| Installation on site | 2–3 days |
| Commissioning and handover | Same visit |
| End to end | 6–12 weeks |
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Get a Quote →Heat pump installation cost
Installation is built into the all-in quote rather than charged separately. A typical air source job costs £8,000 to £14,000 before the £7,500 grant, of which £2,500 to £4,000 is the install labour and the rest is the unit, cylinder and any radiator work. See the full heat pump cost breakdown.
Is your home ready?
Heat pumps work best in homes insulated to EPC C or better, because they heat at lower flow temperatures than a boiler. The heat loss survey will flag whether you need insulation or radiator upgrades first. Our home insulation and EPC upgrades guides cover preparing your home, and separate grants such as ECO4 may help with insulation.
Heat Pump Installation FAQ
How long does heat pump installation take?
The on-site installation takes 2 to 3 days for a typical air source heat pump. The full process from survey to a running system usually takes 6 to 12 weeks, including the heat loss survey, design, grant application, equipment ordering and commissioning.
How are air source heat pumps installed?
After a heat loss survey and system design, the installer fits the outdoor unit, connects it to your heating and a hot water cylinder, upgrades any undersized radiators, then commissions and balances the system. It is done by an MCS-certified installer over 2 to 3 days.
How much does heat pump installation cost?
Installation is included in the all-in price of £8,000 to £14,000 for an air source system, of which £2,500 to £4,000 is the labour. After the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant, most homes pay £500 to £6,500 net.
Do I need an MCS-certified installer?
Yes, to claim the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant the installer and the heat pump must both be MCS-certified. MCS certification also assures the install meets UK standards. You can browse MCS-certified heat pump installers by area on our directory.
Does a heat pump need planning permission?
Usually no for residential installs. The outdoor unit must sit at least 1 metre from the boundary and meet noise limits. Listed buildings, flats and some conservation areas may need permission. Your installer will confirm during the survey.
Will I need to upgrade my radiators?
Sometimes. Heat pumps run at lower flow temperatures than boilers, so undersized radiators may need upsizing for efficient heating. The heat loss survey identifies which, if any, need changing. Underfloor heating is ideal but not required.
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Related Guides
Heat Pump Cost
Full price breakdown by type and home size, plus running costs.
Air Source Heat Pumps
Cost, best brands, running costs, and pros and cons for UK homes.
Heat Pump Radiators
Do your radiators work with a heat pump, which need upsizing, and cost.
Heat Pump Service & Repair
Servicing costs, what's covered, and finding an engineer near you.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
- MCS: Find a Certified Installer
- Energy Saving Trust: Air Source Heat Pumps
Last updated: June 2026
John Rooney is the founder of Solar Info and has been covering the UK solar energy market since 2023. He researches every battery and inverter brand against manufacturer datasheets, MCS and Ofgem data, and feedback from the MCS-certified installers in our directory before publishing.
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