Heat pumps are becoming more popular – and it’s easy to see why. They’re efficient, low carbon, and central to the UK’s clean energy future.

But that doesn’t mean they’re right for every home. The truth is, a heat pump works brilliantly when the house is ready for it. When it isn’t, the results can disappoint.

That’s where clear advice makes the difference. We’ll help you understand how heat pumps work, what to think about before you install one, and whether your home is a good fit.

Your reasons matter too. Maybe you want to cut your carbon footprint. Maybe set your home up for the years to come with smarter technology. Or maybe you just want it to feel warmer, easier to run, and better value. Whatever your goal, this guide will give you the confidence to take the next step.

Smarter upgrades, step by step

At Cosy Homes Oxfordshire, we don’t sell heating systems. We’re here to guide you through the right improvements for your home – in the right order, and at the right time. That means clear options, trusted recommendations, and the confidence to take your next steps without costly missteps.

If a heat pump makes sense for your home, we’ll help you prepare properly, choose the right system, and get it installed by a vetted local contractor. If it doesn’t, we’ll explain why — and point you towards the changes that will make the biggest difference first.

We support homeowners across Oxfordshire with practical, independent advice – whether your priority is comfort, lower bills, or cutting carbon. Our aim is to help you move away from fossil fuels at a pace that works for you, towards a healthier, more energy-efficient home.

What is a heat pump? 

A heat pump works a bit like a fridge in reverse. It captures heat from the air or the ground outside and uses it to warm your home and hot water.

People often wonder if they work in cold weather. The answer is yes – even on frosty days, there’s still heat to extract. In fact, they’re widely used in countries like Sweden and Norway, where winters are far colder than ours.

They run on electricity, not fossil fuels, and work best in well-insulated homes with good heating controls.

Different types of heat pump

• Air source: The most widely used type in UK homes. Typically installed as compact units that can be wall-mounted or floor-standing outside the home. Suitable for most properties, including terraces and flats. They typically require the least disruption to install.
• Air-to-air: Works in a similar way to the more common air-to-water systems – but instead of heating water for radiators or underfloor pipes, they warm the air inside your home. They can also give you cool air in the summer heat, which makes them attractive for smaller homes and flats. The catch is that they don’t produce hot water, so you’ll need a separate low-energy system for that.
• Ground source: Very efficient and low running costs, but requires digging trenches or boreholes – so it’s best suited to homes with outdoor space and a higher upfront budget.
• Water source: These systems draw heat from rivers, lakes, or aquifers. Can be very efficient, but is only suitable in specific locations where access to a consistent water source is available. Uses nearby water bodies – rarely suitable for standard suburban homes.

Find out more: 

Guide to air source heat pumps  >

Guide to heating controls  >

What to consider before choosing a heat pump 

Installing a heat pump is a big decision. It can work brilliantly – not just for cutting carbon, but also for improving comfort. Heat pumps provide a more even, consistent warmth compared to traditional systems – but only if your home is ready.

Ask yourself: 

• Is my home well insulated? 

• Do I have space outside for a unit?  (Good news: since May 2025, you no longer need planning permission to install one within a metre of your neighbour’s boundary.)

• Am I looking for a long-term, low-carbon solution? 
• Would you like your system to provide cooling as well as heating?
• For Air Source Heat Pumps, is there space for a water cylinder, and will I need to upgrade my radiators or pipework? 

Note: If your home isn’t suitable for a heat pump, there are other efficient electric options to consider – such as High Heat Retention Storage Heaters, which provide steady, comfortable warmth.

We can help you explore these options through a whole-home assessment and tailored advice. And if you’re ready to take the next step, we can connect you with a trusted local heating engineer to carry out a detailed heat loss survey.

Useful reads

Is my home suitable for a heat pump?  >

Should I wait, or go ahead now?  >

Which heat pump is right for your home?  >

Want help thinking it through?

Not sure if your home is ready – or where to begin? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Our team offers a free, no-obligation chat to listen, answer your questions, and explore what might work for your home.

Common questions about heat pumps 

How loud is a heat pump? >

What’s it like to switch to a heat pump?  >

What if my home isn’t ready yet? >

Real homes, real experiences 

We don’t sell heat pumps – but the homeowners we’ve supported can tell you why they wouldn’t dream of going without one. Whether it’s lower bills, better comfort, or cutting carbon, they’ve seen the difference for themselves – and they’re happy to share their stories.

Hear directly from the homeowners who’ve made the switch.