Are heat pumps suitable for smaller homes?

Heat pumps are increasingly becoming the go-to solution for eco-friendly, energy-efficient heating. But what if you live in a smaller home, like a terraced house or a new-build property? Are these systems suitable for your living space?

The answer is yes! With proper planning and expert advice, heat pumps can work brilliantly in smaller homes. Let’s take a look at how.

Key takeaways

• What are heat pumps?
• Are heat pumps suitable for smaller homes?
• Things to consider

What are heat pumps?

Heat pumps are a sustainable way to heat your home, transferring heat from one place to another using electricity. They come in two main types: air source and ground source.

Air source heat pumps pull heat from the outside air – even in winter – while ground source heat pumps extract heat from the ground through a network of buried pipes.

Both types can provide hot water, heating, and even cooling. Unlike traditional gas boilers, which burn fossil fuels, heat pumps rely on electricity, making them a cleaner, more sustainable option. By switching to a heat pump, you can reduce your carbon footprint and make your home more energy-efficient.

Are heat pumps suitable for smaller homes?

Smaller homes, such as terraced houses, detached cottages, or new-build properties, are excellent places for heat pumps. Here’s why:

1. Compact systems

Many air source heat pumps are compact and can fit easily in smaller spaces – the outdoor unit is only slightly bigger than a standard washing machine.

2. Energy efficiency

Smaller homes generally have lower heating demands, which means heat pumps can operate more efficiently.

3. Outdoor space

While ground source heat pumps need a lot of outside space for underground pipes, air source heat pumps only need a small area for the outdoor unit. This makes them perfect for homes with modest gardens or patios.

4. Versatility

Heat pumps aren’t just for heating – they can also provide cooling and act as an air conditioning unit in summer. This versatility is especially handy in smaller homes without the space for multiple systems.

Things to consider

1. Heat pump size

The power output and size of the heat pump should match your property’s needs. A professional installer (that’s us at Grant Store!) will assess your property size and recommend the right system.

2. Noise levels

Modern heat pumps are designed to be quiet, but properly placing the outdoor unit is important, especially in densely populated areas or shared buildings / semi-detached houses.

3. Energy efficiency

Upgrading insulation before installation can improve your home’s energy efficiency. This is particularly important for older properties that lose more heat.

4. Costs and grants

Installing a heat pump can be expensive, but government-backed initiatives like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can cover up to £7,500 of the cost. Over time, the system’s efficiency will lead to big savings on energy bills.

Want to know what an air source heat pump installation might cost you? Use our free online calculator today! Just enter some details and get an instant estimate that’s tailored to your property.

The perfect fit for compact living

Heat pumps are a great choice for smaller homes, combining energy efficiency, compact designs, and versatility. They offer a smart, sustainable way to future-proof your home and reduce your environmental impact.

Installing a heat pump takes careful planning and professional installation to get everything working smoothly with your property. We’re here to help you every step of the way, from selecting the right system to providing support on government-backed schemes that can make the switch more affordable.

Start your journey toward a greener, more energy-efficient home – get in touch today.