A Guide to Heat Pump Grants in the UK
Heat pumps are an energy-efficient way to heat your home, moving heat from the air, ground or water rather than burning fuel to generate it. The upfront cost can look steep, but several government-backed grants exist to bring it down. This guide walks through what heat pumps cost and the main schemes that can help.
The Basics of Heat Pumps
Heat pumps transfer heat from the air, ground or water into your living space. Unlike conventional boilers, they use electricity to move heat rather than generate it, which makes them a more sustainable choice. They are an excellent option for cutting energy bills and lowering your carbon footprint.
How Much Do Heat Pumps Cost Without a Grant?
Costs vary by type and size of system. As of 2025, air source heat pumps average £12,400 to £25,000 supplied and installed (£14,000 to £16,500 for a typical 3-bedroom home), with air-to-air systems at £3,000 to £4,000 and air-to-water at £11,000 to £15,000. Ground source heat pumps run £15,000 to £25,000, around £21,000 for a 3-4 bedroom home. The upfront cost is high, but the long-term savings on energy bills make it a worthwhile investment.
What Heat Pump Grants Can Help With Costs?
Several government-backed schemes help reduce the cost of installing heat pumps. These grants are designed to encourage the adoption of renewable energy technologies, making them more accessible and affordable for homeowners.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is the primary grant for all kinds of heat pumps, offering up to £7,500 towards the cost of installing air source or ground source systems as part of the UK's push to cut carbon emissions. It is available to homeowners and private landlords in England and Wales, the property must have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), and new-build properties are not eligible unless they are self-built.
ECO4 Scheme
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme focuses on improving energy efficiency in low-income households, and if you qualify you could receive funding to install a heat pump. It is open to households on a low income or receiving certain benefits such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit, the property must have an energy efficiency rating of D, E, F or G for private housing, and tenants in privately rented homes need their landlord's consent to apply.
Warm Homes Plan
The Warm Homes Plan is a broader initiative (which includes the Boiler Upgrade Scheme) aimed at improving energy efficiency for households in need, providing financial assistance for renewable heating solutions including heat pumps. It is typically available to households on low incomes or receiving specific benefits; homeowners and tenants (with landlord permission) may qualify, and properties are assessed for suitability such as insulation levels and existing heating systems.
How Can Liverpool Heating Help With Heat Pumps
Liverpool Heating guides you through every step of a heat pump installation, from advising on the best system for your home to helping you apply for grants, so you get the most value out of your investment. Their expert team handles the installation professionally and efficiently.
