What is it actually like living with an air source heat pump?

As heat pump installations rise across the UK, one of the most common questions we hear is, “What’s it really like living with a heat pump compared to a gas boiler?”

Tim Lunel, our project manager at Cosy Homes Oxfordshire, knows first-hand. After retrofitting his Cotswolds cottage with an air source heat pump (ASHP) and living with it for over a year, Tim and his wife, Trish, have seen a real transformation – not just in their energy bills, but in the overall comfort of their home.

Comfort like never before

Tim shares that the biggest change has been how comfortable their home now feels. “We used to wake up to cold areas in the house during the winter, particularly in rooms like our old ‘playroom’, which we used to shut off in cold spells. Now, that space is a warm, welcoming kitchen with underfloor heating – the difference is incredible!”

Unlike traditional gas or oil boilers that blast out heat in short bursts, the heat pump provides a steady, even warmth. “There’s no more sudden blasts of heat,” says Tim. “Instead, the background warmth stays consistent, making the house feel cosier all day long.”

Even their cat has noticed – now happily curling up against the radiators, which no longer get too hot to touch.

Lower running costs, higher efficiency

One concern for many people considering heat pumps is the cost. Despite the pump running for longer periods, Tim has found it to be no more expensive than their old oil boiler – and significantly more efficient.

“Before, we used 1,800 litres of oil a year, producing over 5 tonnes of carbon emissions. With the heat pump, we’ve cut that right down and pay about the same for electricity as we did for oil – all while slashing our carbon footprint by 4 tonnes a year!”

Tim also highlights how his home’s solar panels have boosted the system’s efficiency, allowing them to use more of their own renewable energy, reducing their bills even further.

The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI)

As an added bonus, Tim mentions the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), which provides quarterly payments for seven years to heat pump owners. “We receive £1,572 annually, which makes a real difference, especially as energy prices rise.”

Looking ahead

Energy prices are rising, but Tim believes the switch to a heat pump was the right choice. “Oil prices are only going to go up, especially as governments begin to reflect the true carbon cost. We’re confident that the savings we’ve seen so far will continue to grow.”

Tim’s advice for others considering the switch? “It’s been a smooth process thanks to Cosy Homes Oxfordshire, and we’re now in a much more comfortable home with lower emissions. If you’re thinking about making the change, now is the time to act – before regulations tighten and while incentives are still available.”

Ready to make the switch?

If you’re thinking about upgrading your home’s heating, start with our free Plan Builder advice tool. It’ll give you a snapshot of your home’s potential and help you plan for a more energy-efficient, cosy future.

Get inspired

You can read the full case study of Tim’s Cotswolds cottage retrofit, where he shares his experience of switching from an oil boiler to an air source heat pump. Learn how the upgrade improved the comfort of his home, reduced energy bills, and significantly cut carbon emissions.

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