Across Derby and the wider East Midlands, more homeowners are looking for greener, more efficient ways to heat their homes. Heat pumps are becoming an increasingly popular solution, helping to cut carbon emissions and reduce long-term energy bills.
But one of the most common questions we hear at Piped Up Ltd is: “How much does a heat pump cost to install in Derby?”
The answer depends on a few key factors: the type of heat pump you choose, the size of your home, and whether your property needs upgrades such as insulation or underfloor heating. In this blog, we’ll break down:
- The average heat pump cost in the UK
- The difference between air source and ground source heat pumps
- What affects the cost to install a heat pump locally in Derby
- How government incentives make switching more affordable
The Average Cost of Heat Pump Installation in the UK
Heat pumps are not “one-size-fits-all” systems. Prices vary based on the type of heat pump and the property they are installed in.
On average:
- Air Source Heat Pump Cost: £8,000 – £14,000
- The most common choice for UK homes, including in Derby, because they are compact and efficient.
- The most common choice for UK homes, including in Derby, because they are compact and efficient.
- Ground Source Heat Pump Cost: £18,000 – £30,000+
- Higher upfront cost due to excavation, but greater efficiency and lifespan.
- Higher upfront cost due to excavation, but greater efficiency and lifespan.
These figures include both the unit itself and professional installation. However, they don’t always include additional work, such as radiator upgrades, underfloor heating, or insulation improvements, which can impact overall costs.
What Affects Heat Pump Installation Costs in Derby?
When considering heat pump prices in the UK, it’s important to understand the main factors that influence costs.
1. Type of Heat Pump
- Air Source Heat Pumps are generally more affordable and work well for most Derby homes. They sit outside your property and draw heat from the air, even in colder months.
- Ground Source Heat Pumps are more expensive but highly efficient. They use underground pipes to capture natural heat, making them ideal for rural properties or homes with large gardens.
2. Property Size and Heating Demand
Larger homes with more rooms require bigger heat pump units and more extensive pipework. This naturally increases the total cost to install a heat pump.
3. Existing Heating System
If your home already has efficient radiators or underfloor heating, the installation may be more straightforward. However, older properties may need upgrades to ensure the heat pump runs effectively.
4. Energy Efficiency of Your Home
Good insulation is vital. If your home loses heat quickly, the pump has to work harder. Investing in insulation improvements before installation not only reduces costs in the long run but also ensures you get the full benefits of your system.
5. Government Incentives
The UK Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) currently offers £7,500 towards the cost of an air or ground source heat pump. This can make the final price far more manageable for homeowners in Derby.
👉 At Piped Up Ltd, we help customers apply for these grants as part of our renewable energy services.
Ground vs Air Source Heat Pump Cost Comparison
When comparing ground vs air source heat pump cost, here’s what you need to know:
Feature | Air Source Heat Pump | Ground Source Heat Pump |
Typical Cost | £8k – £14k | £18k – £30k+ |
Space Required | Small outdoor unit | Large garden or land for pipes |
Efficiency | High | Very High |
Installation Time | 2–5 days | Several weeks |
Best Suited For | Most Derby homes | Rural or larger homes with land |
Additional Costs to Consider
While the main installation cost is the biggest factor, there are a few additional elements that can affect the overall price:
- Upgrading radiators – Some homes need larger radiators to make the most of low-temperature heating.
- Underfloor heating – Perfect for heat pumps, but requires additional installation.
- Electrical upgrades – Some properties need new wiring or consumer units, which we can handle as part of our electrical services.
Aesthetic considerations – At Piped Up, we design solutions that work with your property’s look, not against it.
Why Choose Piped Up for Heat Pump Installation in Derby?
At Piped Up Ltd, we pride ourselves on being more than just installers. We’re a family-run business with over 45 years of combined experience, serving Derby, Nottingham, Leicester, and South Yorkshire.
Here’s why local homeowners trust us with their heat pump installation:
- One-stop-shop expertise – We manage plumbing, electrics, and renewables under one roof.
- Accredited specialists – Including GasSafe, NAPIT, MCS, and TrustMark.
- Tailored solutions – Every property is different; we design systems to maximise efficiency and ROI.
- Support with funding – We’ll guide you through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and other grants.
Commitment to sustainability – Our mission is to build a greener future for Derby and beyond.
Is a Heat Pump Worth the Cost?
For many Derby homeowners, the upfront heat pump cost is outweighed by the long-term benefits. A well-installed system can:
- Lower reliance on gas or oil heating
- Reduce carbon emissions significantly
- Provide steady, reliable heating year-round
- Increase the value of your property
When combined with government grants, the average cost of heat pump installation in the UK becomes much more accessible.
Conclusion
So, how much does a heat pump cost in Derby?
- An air source heat pump typically costs between £8,000 and £14,000.
- A ground source heat pump usually ranges from £18,000 upwards, depending on the land available.
- Grants such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can reduce this by £7,500, making renewable heating more affordable than ever.
At Piped Up Ltd, we don’t just install systems , we provide complete, tailored solutions that combine heating, electrics, and renewables to future-proof your home.
👉 Ready to take the next step? Contact Piped Up today to arrange a consultation for air or ground source heat pumps in Derby. We also serve Nottingham, Leicester, and South Yorkshire, helping families across the East Midlands make the switch to greener, more efficient heating.