More UK households are switching to heat pumps instead of gas boilers. It’s part of a wider national effort to reduce carbon emissions and improve how we heat our homes. The government is backing this shift, and public interest is growing, but how far along are we? Are heat pumps becoming a real alternative or still something for the future?
In this article, we’ll explain what’s driving the change, what’s holding it back, and what we can expect over the next few years.
Key Takeaways
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How Common Are Heat Pumps in the UK?
In 2024, the UK installed approximately 98,500 heat pumps, according to the Heat Pump Association. That’s a 63% increase compared to the previous year. It’s a significant jump, but we’re still well behind countries like France and Norway.
Currently, around 3.5 heat pumps are installed per 1,000 households in the UK. In comparison, some European countries report rates of over 40 per 1,000 households. So while the UK market is growing, it’s starting from a relatively low base.
Government figures show that total installations to date are approaching 250,000 units. That includes both air source and ground source heat pumps, with air source being the more popular choice due to lower upfront costs and easier installation.
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Government Targets and Support
The UK government has set a target of 600,000 heat pump installations per year by 2028. This goal is part of a wider strategy to reduce emissions from buildings, which currently account for nearly 17% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions.
To encourage uptake, the government introduced the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which offers a grant of £7,500 for households switching to a heat pump. Despite this support, uptake of the scheme has been slower than anticipated but it’s expected to increase.
Also read: Heat Pumps Funding 2025: Your Essential Guide
Why Are People Choosing Heat Pumps?
One of the main attractions of heat pumps is energy efficiency. For every unit of electricity used, a heat pump can deliver up to three to four units of heat. That makes them more efficient than traditional gas or electric boilers.
Another factor is running cost. With the right setup, a heat pump can save you money on your heating bills, especially in well-insulated homes. Over time, these savings can help offset the higher installation costs.
Environmental concerns also play a role. Heat pumps produce no direct emissions and can significantly reduce a home’s carbon footprint when powered by renewable electricity.
Who Is Leading the Way?
Some local authorities and housing associations are taking a lead by installing heat pumps in new developments and social housing. This is helping to build experience and demonstrate what’s possible at scale.
For example, Oxford City Council has invested in retrofitting heat pumps into social housing, and other councils are following suit. These large-scale projects help raise confidence in the technology and bring down costs over time.
New-build homes are also a major growth area. From 2025, new homes will no longer be allowed to install traditional gas boilers under the Future Homes Standard. That shift will naturally increase demand for heat pumps as developers look for low-carbon heating options.
What Are the Projections for the Next 5 Years?
Analysts expect a steady rise in installations through 2025 and beyond. Based on government targets and industry trends, the UK could see:
- Around 200,000 installations per year by 2026
- Possibly 300,000 by 2027, if support schemes are improved
- Reaching 600,000 by 2028 would require a significant acceleration
To meet these figures, the industry needs not only stronger incentives but also better public education and more installers.
Are Heat Pumps Suitable for Most Homes?
Heat pumps are best suited to well-insulated homes with low heat demand. For homes that already have good insulation and modern heating systems, installation is straightforward.
In older properties, things get more complicated. The installer will often recommend improving insulation or upgrading radiators to get the best performance from the heat pump.
The good news is that newer air source heat pumps are more flexible and can perform well even at lower outdoor temperatures, which makes them more reliable in the UK climate than many people expect.
Also read: How Quiet Are Modern Air Source Heat Pumps?
Will Heat Pumps Replace Boilers?
It’s unlikely that heat pumps will replace boilers overnight. But over the next decade, they are expected to take a growing share of the market, especially for new homes and eco-conscious renovations.
Hybrid systems are also gaining interest. These combine a heat pump with a backup boiler or immersion heater, offering flexibility and reliability in older or more complex homes.
As costs come down and technology improves, the gap between heat pumps and boilers is closing.
Final Thoughts
The shift to heat pump technology in the UK is picking up pace, but there’s still a long way to go. 2024 was a strong year in terms of sales and training, but hitting long-term targets will need sustained effort across the board.
Homeowners, landlords, developers, and policy makers all have a role to play. If you’re considering switching to a heat pump, Clima Tech can help you understand your options and offer tailored advice for your property.
Get in touch with our team today at 01473 798321