Heat pumps in older houses | Shire Surveyors

During the course of my surveying work our clients often ask what they can do to reduce energy costs particularly for older houses.

Installing a heat pump in a pre house can be cost-effective, but it depends on several factors:

1. Insulation and Draft Proofing older homes often have poor insulation due to solid walls, single glazing, and draughty features. Improving insulation (such as installing secondary glazing, loft insulation, and draft proofing) is key to making a heat pump efficient. Without these upgrades, the heat pump will struggle to maintain consistent warmth, reducing efficiency and increasing running costs.

2. Low-Temperature Heating System Heat pumps work best with low-temperature systems like underfloor heating or large radiators. Victorian houses typically have high ceilings and smaller radiators designed for high-temperature heating (like gas boilers). Upgrading radiators or installing underfloor heating increases the installation cost but improves heat pump performance.

3. Electricity vs Gas Costs Heat pumps use electricity, which is usually more expensive than gas. However, the higher efficiency of heat pumps (up to 400%) offsets this, especially if gas prices rise or if you have access to renewable electricity (like solar panels).4. Incentives and Grants Government incentives (such as heat pump grants) can reduce upfront costs, making the switch more viable. Check with a reputable contractor who will be able to confirm the current grants which at the time of writing can be up to £7,5000 for an air source heat pump.

5. Long-Term Savings While upfront costs are high (often £8,000-£15,000), lower running costs and reduced maintenance can lead to savings over time, especially if gas prices rise and electricity costs stabilize or fall.

6. Aesthetic and Structural Challenges External units can affect the look of a Victorian property, and planning permission may be needed in some conservation areas.

If the house is well-insulated and you invest in a compatible heating system, a heat pump can be cost-effective in the long run, particularly with financial incentives and rising gas costs. Without proper insulation and system upgrades, though, the savings may not justify the investment.

Tom Lister