Homeowners are holding back from installing heat pumps for reasons extending beyond just the upfront expense, according to new research. While the government's Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers grants of up to £7,500 to help with installation costs, a study involving over 1,000 homeowners found that significant concerns about installation quality, system performance, and a lack of trust in the market are also major deterrents.
The research, which included in-depth interviews and focus groups, highlighted that nearly half of those surveyed cited both the initial installation costs and the ongoing running costs as reasons for not proceeding with a heat pump. However, a 'Wild West' perception of the installation sector, coupled with worries about inconsistent advice and the risk of poor workmanship, is creating a significant barrier to wider adoption. Homeowners expressed a desire for a recognised standard to help them identify trustworthy installers and ensure their investment would result in a properly functioning system.
Beyond cost and installation confidence, homeowners also voiced concerns about the efficacy of heat pumps in heating their homes sufficiently. Many were unsure if the technology could provide adequate warmth, especially in older or less insulated properties. This apprehension often stems from a lack of clear, personalised information regarding a heat pump's expected energy use and potential long-term savings on energy bills. Installers are encouraged to provide detailed projections tailored to individual homes, rather than relying on general averages.
The study also touched upon the emerging landscape of financing options and the long-term uncertainty surrounding energy prices. Homeowners are seeking clearer pathways to understand whether a heat pump will genuinely save them money over time. The availability of smart electricity tariffs, some specifically designed for heat pump owners to utilise cheaper off-peak electricity, could play a crucial role in addressing these running cost concerns. Furthermore, performance-monitoring technology in heat pump models could offer homeowners greater transparency over their system's efficiency and energy consumption.
Despite these reservations, studies of existing heat pump owners generally indicate high levels of satisfaction once the systems are installed. This suggests that the current barriers are largely related to the pre-installation phase, encompassing information gaps, trust issues, and a need for greater clarity on both costs and performance guarantees. Addressing these concerns will be vital for the government's broader decarbonisation targets and for encouraging more homeowners to transition away from traditional gas boilers.