Customers seeking heat pump installations often receive inaccurate quotes, leading to higher final bills, an industry expert has stated. Many initial estimates are based on phone conversations and general assumptions, rather than detailed property surveys.
Adam Dare, managing director of Eco Renewables, explained that a phone quote cannot account for crucial factors such as a home's actual heat loss, the suitability of existing radiators, or the capacity of the electrical consumer unit. These unaddressed issues often surface mid-installation, increasing costs.
A comprehensive survey, which involves measuring each room and assessing insulation, is recommended to determine the correct heat pump size and identify necessary ancillary work. While such surveys may incur a fee, this cost is often deducted from the final bill if the customer proceeds with the installation.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers a £7,500 grant for air source heat pumps in England and Wales. However, this grant specifically covers the heat pump unit, not associated costs like radiator upgrades, hot water cylinders, or electrical modifications, which can add thousands to the overall expense.