Do I Need Planning Permission to Install an Air Source Heat Pump

If you’re considering installing an air source heat pump (ASHP) to improve your home’s energy efficiency, you may be wondering if you need planning permission.

Generally, air source heat pumps fall under Permitted Development Rights (PDR) in the UK, which means they don’t always require planning permission.

However, certain conditions and exceptions apply.

When Planning Permission Isn’t Required

For most residential properties, installing an air source heat pump is allowed under PDR, which simplifies the process. However, there are a few important rules to follow. The ASHP unit should be installed on the ground, more than one meter from the property’s boundary. It also needs to be positioned away from the main front wall of the house to limit its visual impact on the street.

Additionally, only one air source heat pump unit is allowed per property under PDR. The pump should not exceed a certain noise level to avoid disturbing neighbours. Meeting these conditions can often mean you don’t need extra permission.

When Planning Permission Is Required

In some cases, you will still need planning permission. Listed buildings, conservation areas, and properties in designated areas like national parks often require approval. This is due to the restrictions on altering building appearance or character. If you’re installing an air source heat pump on a listed building, you’ll need Listed Building Consent in addition to planning permission.

How to Be Sure

To confirm whether your installation qualifies under PDR, it’s best to consult your local planning authority or contact us today for some expert advice.

By following the guidelines, most homeowners can install an air source heat pump without planning permission. This makes it a lot easier to switch to this eco-friendly heating option.


Grade ll Listed Building Air Source Heat Pump Case Study

This case study shows an Air Source Heat Pump that we installed into a Grade II Listed Building.

When our client Alex began renovating his Grade II listed timber-framed home in Buckinghamshire, he set his sights on going completely gas-free.

Despite initial scepticism from heating engineers, Alex’s determination to install a heat pump paid off.

We fitted a Viessmann Vitocal 150-A heat pump, which now ranks highly on the Open Energy Monitor with a remarkable Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 4.8.

This case study demonstrates the feasibility and benefits of using a heat pump in a heritage home, as well as the innovative techniques that made it successful.

Embracing Sustainability with Heat Pump Technology

Given the UK government’s goal to phase out gas boilers, air-source heat pumps are the ideal long-term solution.

The Viessmann Vitocal 150-A was a strategic choice of heat pump, as it offers excellent weather compensation controls. This makes it highly efficient in the cold weather.

Overcoming Challenges with a Heritage Home

Installing a heat pump in a 17th-century listed home required creative solutions. Initially, several contractors discouraged our client, Alex from pursuing the project. That was until he found a like-minded collaborator in Liam Barry, Projects Director at Custom Renewables Ltd.

Following a thorough heat loss survey, Liam determined that the house’s heat loss could be met with a 16 kW heat pump, especially with the installation of underfloor heating (UFH) on the ground floor and a re-pipe to the house to increase efficiency.

Choosing a Viessmann Heat Pump for Reliability and Efficiency

Custom Renewables decided to install the 16 kW Viessmann Vitocal 150-A because the Viessmann unit’s advanced weather compensation system helps maintain efficient heating even during temperature drops, while its compact internal buffer minimises defrosting requirements.

Paired with 18 solar PV panels and a 10kWh battery storage system, the heat pump covers most of the home’s energy needs, including an electric vehicle and hob, reducing reliance on grid electricity.

Managing Heritage Restrictions with Innovative Design

The listed status of Alex’s home introduced additional regulatory challenges. For instance, only specific external walls could be modified for piping, and only traditionally styled column radiators were approved. The home’s narrow, elongated layout also presented design challenges. To minimise visual disruption, piping was routed through concealed spaces on each floor. This centralisation minimised heat loss and preserved the historical aesthetic.

The couple opted for a novel high-efficiency “super cylinder” to manage hot water, a common challenge with heat pumps. Developed in collaboration with Heat Geek and Newark Cylinders, this advanced cylinder boasts up to 500% efficiency, enabling the heat pump to deliver consistently hot water without compromising overall system efficiency.

Cost-Saving Benefits and Comfort Gains

The installation costs were partially offset by a £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant, making the transition more affordable. While additional expenses arose due to heritage requirements, the efficiency gains are already noticeable. Alex reports a significant drop in utility bills and minimal reliance on grid power. The new system provides a stable, draft-free warmth throughout the home, enhancing comfort while preserving the building’s historical charm.

A Blueprint for Sustainable Heating in Heritage Homes

This successful heat pump installation offers a compelling model for others looking to adopt sustainable heating in older properties. Our innovative approach to navigating regulatory challenges and optimising efficiency has made this Grade II listed home a leader in sustainable heating performance.

If you would like some help with your own installation, contact us today for some technical advice.


Can You Have an Air Source Heat Pump Installed on a Listed Building?

If you own a listed building and want to install an air source heat pump, there are important rules to follow.

Listed buildings are historic buildings with unique designs that are protected by law.

Installing an air source heat pump on a listed building can be a bit tricky. However, it is possible if you follow the right steps.

See one of our recent Grade ll listed building installs using a Viessmann Vitocal 150-A heat pump here.

Getting Permission

First, you’ll need permission to install an air source heat pump on a listed building. This is called Listed Building Consent (LBC). It is required because your building is protected to keep it looking as it did in the past.

To get permission, you’ll need to explain where and how the air source heat pump will be installed.

You’ll need to show that the heat pump won’t change the look of the building too much or damage it in any way. Usually, it’s best to work with an architect or expert installers. They understand how to work with listed buildings to make sure the plan is approved.

Keeping the Building Looking Good

When you install an air source heat pump, it’s important to keep the building looking as original as possible. The best place for the heat pump is somewhere less visible, like the back of the building, where people won’t see it from the road. Sometimes, people hide the heat pump behind a wall, fence, or plants to keep it out of sight.

Inside the building, any changes for the air source heat pump should be carefully designed and planned. This avoids damaging important parts of the building like the walls, decorations, or woodwork that are part of the building’s history.

Staying Quiet

Air source heat pumps make some noise when they are working. This can be a problem, especially for older, quieter buildings. Because of this, the rules for listed buildings may include noise limits. The pump should be quiet enough so it doesn’t bother people who live nearby or visitors to the building.

Many air source heat pumps are designed to be very quiet, but you might need to show the council how much noise the pump makes before they give you permission.

Improving Energy Efficiency

An air source heat pump is a great way to save energy and reduce heating costs, which is good for the environment. Sometimes, listed buildings have special rules about energy because they’re older, and improving energy efficiency can be challenging. Even if it’s a bit harder, an air source heat pump can help the building stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer, without needing too many changes to the building.

Planning Permission

For most buildings, an air source heat pump can be installed under something called Permitted Development Rights (PDR), which means you don’t need extra permission. However, listed buildings usually don’t get these rights because of their age and history. So, besides getting Listed Building Consent, you’ll likely need planning permission too. This means the council will check to see if the air source heat pump is a good fit for the building and surroundings.

Final Thoughts

So, can you have an air source heat pump installed on a listed building? Yes, you can! It just takes a bit of planning, special permission, and careful choices about where and how to install it. An air source heat pump can make your listed building more comfortable and energy-efficient without harming its historic charm.

If you need technical advice for your property and want to see if your listed building is suitable for a heat pump, contact us today.


New Barn Conversion Air Source Heat Pump Case Study

In this article, we have a recent barn conversion where we designed and installed a new air source heat pump system.

Project Overview

A 465sqm, 5 Bedroom barn conversion property in Buckinghamshire.

The System We Fitted

We installed the following system:

  • Steibel Eltron WPL-25 heat pump, paired with a 300 litre how water cylinder.
  • A Brink mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system.
  • Full underfloor heating.
  • Full open loop design.
  • Weather compensation system.

Why We Designed & Installed This System

This new barn conversion was designed to be passive Haus standard with very minimal heat loss from the building.

We did not want to lose energy from high moisture areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, so we installed a heat recovery with the ventilation system.

This allowed us to achieve even more efficiency by recycling heat within the building.

The design of the property used substantial glazing, meaning underfloor heating was the obvious choice to allow us to run exceptionally low flow temperatures. This gives a consistent and even heat across the whole building.

The Problem Our Customer Faced

Our customer found it extremely difficult to find the right installer. They wanted an installer that they could trust to design, install and then maintain the heating system.

They also had concerns over the complexity of renewable technology and how efficient a heat pump system could be.

We solved that problem from the start with expert technical guidance and communication throughout the design process.

How Long Did The Project Take?

The first phase of underfloor heating and mechanical ventilation took 2 weeks to install on site.

The plant room and associated works took 1 week to install.

Heat pump installation was carried out over 3 days.

From there it took 2 days to commission the installation and to complete final pipework insulation.

How Efficient Is The System Now It Is Operating?

The air source heat pump is now running at 450% efficiency and the customers house maintains a comfortable temperature of 19-20 degrees.

Far more efficient than a traditional gas boiler system.

What Funding Was Used On This Install?

This property was eligible for the current government BUS grant (Boiler Upgrade Scheme). We took care of the full application process allowing the customer to secure £7,500 in funding towards the cost of the system installation.

Our Final Thoughts

Air source heat pump efficiency and running costs for any size property all comes down to how well it is designed in the first place.

Large and bespoke projects like this one take that little bit more of extra time, planning and attention to detail to get everything working at comfortable living temperatures and high levels of energy efficiency.

Get In Touch

If you need some help with your own new build project, contact us today for helpful technical advice on your exact project requirements.


Woodlands Academy School Solar Panel Install Case Study

In this article, we have a recent solar panel project that we installed to a local middle school.

Project Overview

An academy school that wanted to reduce their increasing energy costs and play their part in a more sustainable future.

https://youtu.be/1jRTQsPHKp0

The System We Fitted

We installed a 54kw Solar Panel System with 126 individual panels.

Why We Designed & Installed This System

The school wanted to achieve three key things:

  1. Reduce their constantly increasing energy bills
  2. Reduce their carbon footprint
  3. Make renewable technology visible to help educate the pupils of the school.

How Long Did The Project Take?

We completed the design and installation of the complete solar panel system in 7 days.

How Efficient Is The System Now It Is Operating?

The solar panels will provide a full payback in 9 years based on current usage.

In addition to the cost savings, within the first 30 days of operation, the amount of harmful carbon gas saved is equivalent to 4.4 tons.

To put that into perspective, 4.4 tons of co2 would fill an entire Olympic swimming pool!

Our Final Thoughts

We are proud to have played our part in installing a renewable solar energy system for the school, and look forward to returning to complete further phases of work to improve the schools energy usage and efficiency even further.

We hope other schools will consider following suit and play their part by reducing their carbon footprint.

Get In Touch

If you need some help with your own new build project, contact us today for helpful technical advice on your exact project requirements.


New Build Home Air Source Heat Pump Case Study

In this case study, we have a new build home where we installed an air source heat pump system.

Project Overview

A Large 1000m2, 6 Bedroom New build property in Northamptonshire.

The System We Fitted

We installed 2 x 12kw Vaillant Arotherm plus heat pumps, paired with 2 x 300ltr Vaillant Unistor cylinders.

The ground floor is fitted with 16mm MLCP (Multi layered composite pipe) underfloor heating with 3 manifolds.

The first and second floor has 18 radiators on 4 separate circuits, connected with MLCP and copper fittings.

Two Vaillant Sensocomfort controls for each individual heat pump.

  • Fully open loop design on pure weather compensation
  • 35mm primary pipework
  • IMI Expansion vessels,
  • IMI-Deaerators

Why We Designed & Installed This System

This particular system is quite unique with the overall size and individual room layouts.

Having one single plant room would mean very large hot water runs creating very high resistance and large primary and secondary pipework.

Also, a large open entrance hall and steels created another issue with pipe routes.

We decided that two plant rooms and “zoning” the property with its own heat pump for each side would be far more efficient.

Two separate 300L hot water cylinders allow one to feed 3 bathrooms, a utility room, one UFH (underfloor heating) zone and 2 radiator circuits.

The second 300L cylinder feeds 3 more bathrooms, the kitchen, 2 x UFH zones and 2 radiator circuits

This allowed us to install short hot water runs and to operate the Vaillant Heat Pumps at a low modulation as we have created a low index circuit.

The Problem Our Customer Faced

Our customer is a highly experienced property developer who has experienced various problems when installing air source heat pump systems in the past. These problems include high running costs, inefficient energy usage, and uneven temperatures in different areas of the home.

As a result, our client did not trust the viability of installing a heat pump system. That was until they reached out to us at Custom Renewables Ltd.

We worked with the client and meticulously went through 3 different heat loss report tools. This allowed us to avoid any problems with over calculating and over sizing. This a very common problem within the industry. A problem which can result in expensive running costs.

How Long Did The Project Take?

We completed the design and installation of the air source heat pump system over a period of 6 months. This was inline with the overall new build program.

The 1st fix of the underfloor heating was installed prior to the floor screed and once the building shell was complete.

The 1st fix of the radiators and primary pipework went in once all the doors and windows had been installed and the house was watertight.

Once the house had been plastered and painted, we then returned to 2nd fix the radiators and install both plant rooms and heat pumps.

From there it took two days to commission the installation and complete final pipework insulation.

How Efficient Is The System Now It Is Operating?

The air source heat pump system is now running over 450% efficiency on both units and the customers house maintains a comfortable temperature of 19-20 degrees.

The home is also utilising 48 solar panels and battery storage which is running the heat pump 80-90% of the year.

What Funding Was Used On This Install?

This property was eligible for the current government BUS grant (Boiler Upgrade Scheme). We took care of the full application process securing £7,500 in funding towards the cost of the system installation.

Our Final Thoughts

Air source heat pump efficiency and running costs for any size property all comes down to how well it is designed in the first place.

Large and bespoke projects like this one take a little bit more time, planning and attention to detail. However, this ensures both comfortable living temperatures and high levels of energy efficiency are achieved.

Get In Touch

If you need some help with your own new build project, contact us today for helpful technical advice on your exact project requirements.


Upfront Costs And Lifetime Savings Of An Air Source Heat Pump

When considering the right heating system for your home, it’s important to compare the upfront costs and lifetime savings of an air source heat pump (ASHP) versus a traditional gas boiler.

While air source heat pumps may have higher installation costs, they offer significant savings in the long run, making them a smart investment for eco-conscious homeowners.

The Upfront Costs

An air source heat pump typically costs between £7,000 and £13,000 to install in the UK, depending on the size of the property and the complexity of the system.

By comparison, a traditional gas boiler installation will typically cost between £2,500 and £5,000.

At first glance, the gas boiler seems like the more economical choice, but the story doesn’t end there.

The Lifetime Savings

The real value of an air source heat pump comes from its energy efficiency and lower running costs.

ASHPs can achieve an efficiency rating of 300-400%, meaning that for every unit of electricity used, they generate 3-4 units of heat. In contrast, gas boilers are around 90-95% efficient, losing a significant portion of energy during operation.

Over time, these efficiency gains translate to reduced energy bills.

A household using an ASHP can save up to 50% on annual heating costs compared to a gas system.

Furthermore, the government offers incentives like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (currently £7,500), which can significantly help offset the initial installation costs of a heat pump.

Environmental Benefits

Beyond financial savings, an air source heat pump significantly reduces carbon emissions, helping homeowners lower their carbon footprint. With gas boilers being phased-out on all new build properties due to environmental regulations, heat pumps are also the future-proof solution.

In conclusion, while the upfront cost of an air source heat pump is higher, the lifetime savings and environmental benefits make it a worthwhile investment compared to a traditional gas system.

Get In Touch

If you would like to install a highly efficient air source heat pump to your home and make significant savings on your energy bills, contact us today for expert technical advice.


Does A Renewable Heating System Reduce Your Carbon Footprint?

Switching to a renewable heating system is one of the most effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint in the UK.

Traditional heating systems, such as gas or oil boilers, contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.

In fact heating our individual homes accounts for over 20% green house gas emissions.

Which means if each home owner made the switch to a more efficient renewable technology such as air source heat pumps and solar energy, they can play a huge part in reducing the overall carbon footprint.

 

 

How Does A Renewable Heating System Work?

Renewable heating systems work by using natural resources like wind, water, or sun light to generate electricity.

Air source heat pumps are powered by electricity and work by extracting heat from the air—even in cold temperatures—to warm your home.

This process uses much less energy compared to conventional heating methods and can reduce your carbon emissions by up to 50%.

Ground source heat pumps, which draw energy from the ground, can offer even greater efficiency, cutting emissions and energy bills.

Future Proof Your Home

In addition to lowering emissions, choosing a renewable heating system helps to future-proof your home against rising energy costs.

The UK government is pushing for a reduction in carbon emissions to meet the climate goal of being a net zero country by 2050.

Renewable energy solutions are playing a key role in this transition and more home owners need to make the switch from traditional gas systems to help achieve this target.

By switching now, homeowners can take advantage of available grants, like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which makes installing a renewable system is far more affordable and makes financial sense with a predictable return on investment.

Incorporating renewable energy into your heating system not only reduces carbon emissions but also saves money on energy bills and contributes to a sustainable future for the UK.

Get In Touch

If you are ready to play your part in making the UK a greener country and reduce your own personal carbon footprint, contact us today for free technical advise on the best renewable system for your home.


Air Source Heat Pump Cold Weather

Do Air Source Heat Pumps Still Work In The Cold Weather?

Worried about your air source heat pump still working effectively in the cold weather?

There is a lot of confusion about cold weather and the impact of an air source heat pumps efficiency, so in this article we will unpack the key points.

Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are highly efficient heating systems that can keep your home warm, even during cold UK winters.

How Do Air Source Heat Pumps Work In The Cold Weather?

An air source heat pump extracts heat from the outside air, even when the weather is cold.

Despite the drop in temperature, there is still thermal energy in the air. The pump’s refrigerant absorbs this heat and turns it into a gas. This gas is then compressed, raising its temperature to a level that can be used to heat your home’s radiators, underfloor heating, or hot water system.

Air source heat pumps can operate efficiently in temperatures as low as -20°C, making them a reliable option for the UK's often unpredictable winters. The key to their cold-weather performance lies in their advanced technology, such as inverter-driven compressors and efficient refrigerants. These systems are designed to optimize heat extraction, even in freezing conditions.

The Concern About Heat Pump Efficiency

One common concern is whether air source heat pumps lose efficiency in colder temperatures. While ASHPs may work harder in winter, they are still far more efficient than traditional gas or electric boilers. For every unit of electricity used, an air source heat pump can produce up to three units of heat, even in cold weather.

Additionally, many modern ASHPs come with a defrost cycle that prevents ice from forming on the outdoor unit, ensuring continuous performance throughout the colder months.

By choosing an air source heat pump, you can enjoy reliable, energy-efficient heating during winter, lowering both your energy bills and carbon footprint.

With proper installation and design, ASHPs offer year-round comfort, no matter how cold it gets outside.

Get In Touch

If you would like some technical help with a renewable energy installation, contact us today for expert advice from the Custom Renewables team


Save Big on Your New Build: Skip the Gas Connection Fee

Building your dream home comes with countless decisions—and costs.
One major expense that many homeowners overlook is the gas connection fee, which can add thousands to your build.
By choosing a heat pump instead, you can not only eliminate this cost but also enjoy long-term savings and sustainability benefits.

The Gas Connection Fee

In the UK, the average cost to connect a new property to the gas network can range between £1,500 and £3,000 when the new build is close to existing services.

If the property is in the country with limited supply or roads to dig through to make a new connection, this fee can increase into the tens of thousands of pounds, adding a huge unexpected cost to a self build or new build project.

For self-builders, this is a significant upfront expense, especially when you consider the alternative: heat pumps. Unlike traditional gas boilers, heat pumps run on electricity, completely removing the need for a gas connection.

The Solution Is Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are also far more energy-efficient, using renewable energy from the air or ground to heat your home. This means lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. With the UK government’s push towards renewable energy and carbon reduction, heat pumps are quickly becoming the preferred choice for new builds and eco-conscious homeowners.

In addition to the gas connection savings, you may also qualify for government incentives, like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which provides financial support for homeowners switching to heat pumps. These grants can offset installation costs, making heat pumps a smart investment for both your wallet and the planet.

Choosing a heat pump not only avoids gas connection fees but also future-proofs your home as energy policies shift towards greener solutions. For self-builders looking to cut costs and reduce environmental impact, heat pumps offer the perfect solution.

 

For a quotation or technical advise, contact us today and we will be happy to help you design the perfect system for your new build home.