What to expect from a heat pump in your home

A low-carbon way to stay warm and comfortable – but what’s it really like to live with one?

Heat pumps are growing in popularity as an efficient and low-carbon way to heat (and sometimes cool) our homes. If you’re replacing a gas or oil boiler, they can be a smart, future-proof choice. But what’s it like to live with one?

We’ve worked with many households across Oxfordshire making the switch. Here’s what to expect – and how to decide whether a heat pump is right for your home.

How much space will a heat pump take up?

That depends on the type of system and your home setup.

• Air source heat pumps are the most common and require an outdoor unit – roughly the size of a washing machine – placed on or near an exterior wall. If it provides hot water too, you may also need an indoor hot water cylinder.
• Ground source heat pumps need more outdoor space and involve digging trenches or boreholes. The indoor unit is similar in size to a fridge-freezer.

Every home is different, so your installer will help you assess what’s possible – but most systems fit comfortably with the right preparation.

Are heat pumps noisy?

Air source heat pumps do make some noise as they run a fan to draw in air. But this unit sits outside the home, and modern models are very quiet – especially when properly installed. Inside, you’re unlikely to notice anything at all.

Does it feel different to a gas boiler?

Yes – but in a good way.

Heat pumps run at lower temperatures than traditional gas or oil boilers, delivering warmth more gradually and evenly. Radiators may feel cooler to the touch, but your home stays at a more consistent, comfortable temperature.

Some people find it takes a little getting used to, but many tell us they prefer the steady warmth – and no more turning the thermostat up and down.

Will I need to upgrade anything else in my home?

Possibly – especially if your home isn’t well insulated yet. Heat pumps work best when your home holds on to heat.

Before installing a heat pump, it’s often worth improving insulation and draught-proofing. You might also need to upgrade your radiators or add underfloor heating – particularly in older properties.

That’s why we never recommend going straight to installation. We start with a proper home assessment and develop a joined-up Whole House Plan – so you can see the full picture and avoid costly mistakes.

Will it save me money?

It depends.

If you currently use electric storage heaters or oil, a heat pump could reduce your energy bills. But if you’re switching from a mains gas boiler, savings may not be immediate – especially while electricity remains more expensive than gas.

That said, many people still choose a heat pump for its carbon savings, comfort, and future readiness. Pairing it with energy-saving upgrades, like insulation, helps improve both efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Are the controls easy to use?

Yes – once you’ve got the hang of it.

Your system will come with a thermostat and controls, just like a boiler. It might look different, but your installer should show you how to programme it for the best efficiency. Often, it works best when left on at a low setting for longer periods – keeping your home at a consistent temperature.

Do I need to worry about Legionnaires’ disease?

Not if your installer sets it up correctly.

Legionella bacteria can grow in water cylinders below 60°C, but most heat pump systems include an immersion heater that automatically boosts the temperature once a week to prevent this. Just make sure you choose a qualified, MCS-certified installer – like those we work with.

So – is a heat pump right for me?

That’s what we help you work out.

Heat pumps are a brilliant solution for many homes – especially when part of a wider plan to improve comfort and reduce energy use. But they’re not plug-and-play. You need to look at the whole home to make the most of them.

With over 190 million installations worldwide, the benefits are clear. Heat pumps can use up to three times less energy than a traditional gas boiler – helping to lower bills and cut carbon emissions. They can also cool your home in summer, and because they don’t burn fossil fuels, they can improve indoor air quality too.

While the upfront cost can be higher, long-term savings and government grants make them a smart, future-proof investment – particularly when installed as part of a well-planned retrofit.

That’s why we always start with a proper home assessment and create a tailored plan for you. And we’re here to guide you through every step – from insulation upgrades to choosing the right heating system.

We don’t sell heat pumps!

…but our clients might convince you.

By now, you might be wondering if we’re trying to sell you a heat pump. We’re not. What we offer is independent advice, planning support, and coordination – so you can make the right choices for your home.

But don’t just take it from us. Some of the homeowners we’ve worked with have chosen heat pumps as part of a wider retrofit – and they’re already seeing the benefits.

Read their stories:

• An end terrace home in East Oxford – from chilly to cosy
• A Hook Norton cottage – low-carbon heating in a heritage home

Their journeys might help you decide if a heat pump could work for you, too.

Thinking about getting a heat pump? Let’s talk it over.

Call us on 0330 223 2742 or use our quick contact form – we’ll help you make sense of your options.