Should you wait to install your heat pump – or go ahead now?
If you’ve been thinking about switching to a heat pump, you may be wondering whether now is the right time – or if it’s better to wait.
It’s a fair question. Heat pumps are one of the smartest low-carbon ways to heat your home – but they are a big investment.
Government support for heat pumps
The good news is that government support is available through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which offers a grant of £7,500 towards the cost of an air source or ground source heat pump (as of 2025).
That takes the edge off the upfront cost, which can range from around £8,000 to £18,000, depending on your home and the type of system.
So – should you wait?
If your home is already well insulated and you qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant, there may be no reason to wait.
But if your insulation isn’t sorted, and your home is still losing heat, a heat pump won’t perform at its best. That’s why planning matters. Get the fabric right first – insulation, draught-proofing, ventilation – and your heat pump will work brilliantly when you’re ready to install it.
Why insulation comes first
Before you even think about installing a new heating system, it’s worth checking how your home holds on to heat. Many homes in Oxfordshire still have old boilers, poor insulation, and draughts that waste energy and money.
That’s why we often recommend starting with insulation upgrades. Once your home can hold on to the heat, every other measure – including a heat pump – will work harder for you.
Clear, independent advice
That’s where we come in. At Cosy Homes Oxfordshire, we don’t sell heat pumps. Our role is to give you clear, independent advice so you avoid costly missteps.
We’ll look at the whole picture – your insulation, ventilation, and heating system – and help you decide when and how to make the switch.
If a heat pump makes sense now, we’ll guide you through preparing properly and connecting with a vetted local installer. If it’s not the right time yet, we’ll explain what to tackle first.
Talk it over with us
Heat pumps can be a brilliant way to heat (and even cool) your home– and we’ll help you work out if one’s right for you. We’ll help you work that out with clear, independent advice
Live in Oxfordshire? Book a free, no-obligation consultation with Arantxa, one of our experienced Retrofit Advisers. She’ll talk through your goals, help you understand what’s possible, and outline the best next steps for your home – no pressure, no obligation.
Smarter home upgrades. Backed by trusted local expertise.
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