If you’re considering a move to renewable heating, one of the first questions you’ll face is: “Which type of heat pump is right for my home?”
With growing interest in energy-efficient heating across the UK, heat pumps have become a popular alternative to gas and oil boilers. But with both air source and ground source heat pumps available, many homeowners aren’t sure which option best suits their property.
This blog is a practical heat pump guide designed to help you compare options, weigh up the costs, and decide which system works best for your needs.
Why Choose a Heat Pump for Your Home?
Before diving into the comparison, it’s worth recapping why heat pumps are becoming so popular in the first place.
- Energy efficiency: Heat pumps can produce up to three times more energy than they consume.
- Lower carbon footprint: By switching from fossil fuels to renewable sources, you significantly cut emissions.
- Government support: Grants such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can reduce installation costs by £7,500.
Future-ready heating: Heat pumps align with the UK’s net zero goals and increase property value.
Ground vs Air Source Heat Pump Guide
When choosing a heat pump, the main decision is between an air source heat pump and a ground source heat pump. Each comes with unique advantages depending on your home’s size, layout, and land availability.
Air Source Heat Pumps
- How they work: Draw heat from the air outside, even in cold weather.
- Best for: Most homes in towns and cities, including smaller properties.
- Installation: Quick (2–5 days) and requires only a small outdoor unit.
- Cost: £8,000 – £14,000 (before grants).
Ground Source Heat Pumps
- How they work: Use underground pipes to extract stable natural heat.
- Best for: Rural properties or homes with large gardens.
- Installation: More complex, often taking weeks due to excavation.
Cost: £18,000 – £30,000+ (before grants).
Which Heat Pump Suits Your Property?
Not every property is suited to every type of heat pump. Here’s how to decide.
Best Heat Pump for Small Homes
If you live in a smaller property, such as a terraced house in Derby or a city flat, an air source heat pump is usually the most practical choice. Compact and easier to install, they provide reliable energy-efficient heating without taking up much space.
Best Heat Pump for Rural or Large Properties
If you have a larger home or land available for excavation, a ground source heat pump can offer greater efficiency and long-term savings. They work particularly well in modern builds or when combined with underfloor heating.
Energy Savings Consideration
When choosing a heat pump for energy savings, insulation plays a vital role. A poorly insulated home won’t benefit as much, no matter which type of system you install. That’s why at Piped Up Ltd, we carry out a full property survey before recommending a solution.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Heat Pump
When deciding between air and ground source systems, consider these key points:
- Budget
- Air source = lower upfront cost.
- Ground source = higher upfront, but long-term efficiency.
- Air source = lower upfront cost.
- Space Available
- Air source requires minimal outdoor space.
- Ground source needs large land for trenches or boreholes.
- Air source requires minimal outdoor space.
- Existing Heating System
- Both options work best with underfloor heating or modern radiators.
- Older systems may need upgrading, which we can handle as part of our plumbing & heating services.
- Both options work best with underfloor heating or modern radiators.
- Property Location
- Urban homes: air source is typically more practical.
- Rural homes: ground source is more common due to available land.
- Urban homes: air source is typically more practical.
Piped Up’s Approach to Heat Pump Installation
At Piped Up Ltd, we don’t just install heat pumps ,we provide complete, integrated systems that ensure maximum performance. Here’s how we support our customers in Derby, Nottingham, Leicester, and South Yorkshire:
- Tailored property surveys – to match the right heat pump to your home.
- Full-service expertise – covering plumbing, heating, and electrics under one roof.
- Funding support – including help with Boiler Upgrade Scheme applications.
- Future-proof design – ensuring efficiency, reliability, and aesthetics.
With over 45 years of combined experience, we are trusted across the East Midlands for delivering efficient, sustainable home energy solutions.
Wrapping Up
So, how do you choose the right heat pump for your home?
- Air Source Heat Pumps are best for smaller homes or urban properties, offering affordable, quick installation.
- Ground Source Heat Pumps suit larger or rural properties, providing higher efficiency but with greater upfront cost.
- Factors like budget, space, and insulation should guide your decision.
At Piped Up Ltd, our expert team will help you make the right choice for your property, ensuring your investment in renewable heating delivers maximum comfort and long-term savings.
👉 Ready to explore your options? Contact Piped Up today to arrange a consultation for air or ground source heat pumps across Derby, Nottingham, Leicester, and South Yorkshire.
