Which heat pump is right for your home?

Heat pumps are one of the most efficient, low-carbon ways to heat your home. But with several types available – and a wide range of property types across Oxfordshire – choosing the right system can feel overwhelming.

This guide walks you through the main options, how they work, and what to consider before making the switch.

Air source heat pumps

Simple, effective, and suitable for most homes

Air source heat pumps extract heat from the outside air – even in winter – and use it to warm your home and provide hot water. They’re the most common type of heat pump in the UK and perform reliably even in sub-zero temperatures.

• Best for: Most home types, especially where outdoor space is limited
• Installation cost: Lower than other types of heat pump
• Efficiency: Very effective in the UK climate; output may reduce slightly in freezing conditions, but modern systems are built to cope

Air source heat pumps are a popular option for homeowners seeking to cut carbon and reduce bills without major disruption. Their versatility makes them well suited to retrofits and upgrades.

Ground source heat pumps

Higher efficiency – if you have the space

Ground source heat pumps (GSHP) extract heat from underground pipes buried in your garden or installed in boreholes. Because the ground maintains a stable temperature year-round, these systems operate efficiently in all seasons.

• Best for: Homes with sufficient outdoor space or scope for deep boreholes
• Installation cost: Higher upfront, but lower long-term running costs
• Efficiency: Often more efficient than air source systems, especially in colder months

If your property allows, ground source heat pumps can offer excellent performance – but they require careful planning and are best considered as part of a whole-house retrofit.

Water source heat pumps

Highly efficient – but only in the right location

If your home is close to a consistent water source, such as a river, lake, or well, a water source heat pump can deliver excellent results. It works much like a ground source heat pump but draws heat from water instead of soil.

• Best for: Homes near reliable, accessible water sources
• Installation cost: Comparable to ground source, with added planning requirements
• Efficiency: Very high – but dependent on location

While uncommon in most areas, water source systems can be ideal for certain rural or riverside homes.

Air-to-air heat pumps

Efficient heating and cooling – but with limitations

Air-to-air systems blow warm (or cool) air into your home through ducts. They do not provide hot water, so they’re often used as a supplementary system or for comfort cooling in summer.

• Best for: Homes seeking heating and cooling from a single system
• Installation cost: Lower than other systems, but ducting is required
• Efficiency: Suited to milder climates – less common as a primary heating system in the UK

These systems are widely used abroad but are usually only suitable in specific UK scenarios – particularly modern homes or converted spaces with air circulation systems already in place.

How to choose the right heat pump for your home

The best system for your property will depend on a few key factors:

• Your home’s layout and insulation – Well-insulated homes perform better with heat pumps. Our assessment will flag whether additional measures are recommended.
• Available outdoor space – Some systems require more space than others.
• Your heating goals – Are you looking to reduce running costs, lower carbon, futureproof your home, or all three?
• Your budget – Air source heat pumps are usually more affordable upfront, while ground source systems offer greater long-term savings.

At Cosy Homes Oxfordshire, we offer a Whole House Plan that looks at your property’s energy performance in the round – helping you choose the right system and making sure it works well alongside insulation, ventilation, and heating controls.

Will a heat pump save you money?

Depending on your current heating system and energy use, a heat pump could reduce your annual energy bills significantly – especially if you also improve insulation and shift to smart controls.

You can explore potential savings using these online tools:

• Nesta’s Heat Pump Cost Estimator – Based on real-world installation data
• Daikin’s Heat Pump Calculator – Provides a high-level overview
• Aira’s Savings Tool – Estimates potential bill reductions

Every home is different – and the best way to get accurate figures is through a professional home energy assessment.

Support with installation costs

Through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), grants of up to £7,500 are available to support the cost of heat pump installation. We can help you check eligibility and guide you through the process.

Getting started

Choosing the right heating system is a big decision – but you don’t need to make it alone. We’re here to guide you through every step, from assessing your home to designing a whole-house solution that delivers long-term comfort and efficiency.

Call our team on 0330 223 2742 (Monday to Friday), or send us a message and take the next step towards a warmer, healthier, and more energy efficient home.