What Is the Best Heat Pump for a Self-Build Home?
Building your own home is an exciting project, but it also comes with a lot of important decisions. One of the biggest is how to heat it. If you’re considering a heat pump, you might be wondering: “What’s the best heat pump for a self-build home?”
The Right Size Matters Most
The truth is, the “best” heat pump isn’t just about the brand—it’s about choosing a system that’s correctly sized and designed for your home. Factors such as the layout, insulation, and expected heat loss all play a role in making sure the system works efficiently.
Why Design Is So Important
A self-build home is unique, and the heating system should be tailored to match. When a heat pump is properly designed, it can provide reliable, year-round comfort while keeping energy bills as low as possible.
Recommended Brands
From our experience, some of the most reliable and efficient heat pump brands for self-builds include:
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Vaillant
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NIBE
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Heliotherm
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Viessmann
Each of these options offers strong performance depending on the application and size of the home.
Brands to Be Careful With
Not all heat pumps are created equal. Some units may look appealing upfront but come with poor user controls that make them frustrating to live with. For example, systems from Mitsubishi or Daikin often cause homeowners problems once they’re installed. These issues can become costly mistakes if not considered early on.
Making the Smart Choice
The best heat pump for your self-build home is the one that’s:
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Correctly sized for your property.
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Designed around your home’s layout and heat loss.
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Easy to use for long-term comfort and efficiency.
By combining good design with a trusted brand, you can enjoy a system that’s efficient, reliable, and built to last.
For advice about the best heat pump for your self-build home, contact us here.
Do you need new radiators with a new heat pump?
Switching to a heat pump is a smart choice for lowering your energy bills and making your home more sustainable. But many homeowners have the same question: “Do I also need to replace all my radiators?”
The answer is: not always.
When Radiators Might Need Replacing
Heat pumps run at lower temperatures than traditional boilers, which means they work best when radiators are the right size for each room. In some cases, you may need to upgrade one or two radiators so your home heats up efficiently. This is especially true if you’re already renovating or refurbishing your home.
Rarely a Full System Overhaul
The idea that every radiator and all your pipework must be replaced is a common myth. In reality, it’s very rare for a home to need a full system change. Most of the time, a few carefully chosen upgrades are enough to get the best results.
Why Small Changes Matter
By investing in just a couple of new radiators, you can make your heat pump work far more efficiently. That means your system will use less energy, save you money on bills, and keep your home warmer and more comfortable. It’s a small upgrade that delivers big results over time.
A Smart, Cost-Effective Choice
Think of it as getting the best value for your money—you don’t need to spend thousands replacing everything. Instead, targeted improvements will make your system more efficient and make your investment in a heat pump truly worthwhile.
If you are considering a Heat pump for your property and would like some further information, you can contact us here.
How much electricity does a heat pump actually use?
If you are considering a Heat pump for your property, you may be wondering how much electricity a heat pump will actually use. Heat pumps are often misunderstood when it comes to energy consumption. Unlike traditional electric heaters that generate heat, heat pumps transfer it—making them significantly more efficient and cost-effective.
What Makes Heat Pumps So Efficient?
Heat Transfer vs. Heat Generation
Heat pumps use electricity to move heat from one place to another, not to produce heat directly. This process allows them to use significantly less electricity than resistive heaters or furnaces.
Understanding Heat Pump Efficiency: Coefficient of Performance (COP)
The Coefficient of Performance (COP) is a key metric for heat pump efficiency. It measures how much heat is delivered for each unit of electricity consumed.
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A heat pump with a COP of 4 delivers 4 kWh of heat for every 1 kWh of electricity used.
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This translates to 400% efficiency, compared to a standard electric heater with only 100% efficiency (COP of 1).
Real-World Energy Usage Example
To illustrate:
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If your home requires 1,000 kWh of heating per month...
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A traditional electric heater would consume 1,000 kWh of electricity.
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A heat pump with a COP of 4 would only use 250 kWh to deliver the same amount of heat.
Performance in Cold Weather
Heat pumps remain efficient even in colder climates, though COP may slightly decrease:
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In colder conditions, COP typically ranges between 2.5 and 3.
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Even at lower COP values, heat pumps are still 2 to 3 times more efficient than electric resistance heaters.
Benefits of Using a Heat Pump
Lower Energy Bills
Because heat pumps use less electricity, homeowners can see substantial savings on their utility bills.
Environmentally Friendly
Less energy consumption means fewer greenhouse gas emissions, especially when paired with renewable electricity sources.
Year-Round Comfort
Modern heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, making them a versatile option for all seasons.
Conclusion
Heat pumps are a highly efficient and eco-friendly solution for home heating. With COP ratings between 3 and 4 in most conditions, they can provide the same warmth using just a fraction of the electricity required by traditional systems.
Key Takeaways:
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Heat pumps transfer, not generate, heat.
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Typical COP ranges from 2.5 to 4.
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Can cut electricity use for heating by up to 75%.
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Effective even in colder climates.
* All energy and performance claims are based on our own energy assessments and live monitoring of energy consumption.
The true pay back time for heat pumps
When considering the installation of a heat pump for your home or business, one of the most important factors to consider is the true payback time. How long will it take to recoup your investment? Heat pumps, often touted as an energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems, can offer significant savings over time. However, calculating the true payback period can be more complex than it might first appear.
In this article, we’ll break down the factors that impact payback time and provide a clearer picture of what to expect when investing in a heat pump.
What is a Heat Pump and How Does it Work?
Before diving into the payback period, let’s first understand what a heat pump is. A heat pump is an energy-efficient heating and cooling system that works by transferring heat rather than generating it. In heating mode, it extracts heat from the air or ground outside and brings it inside to warm your home. In cooling mode, it works in reverse, removing heat from inside your home and releasing it outside. This process makes heat pumps up to four times more efficient than traditional heating systems like gas or electric heating.
The Initial Investment: What You’re Paying For
The cost of installing a heat pump can vary significantly based on several factors:
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Type of Heat Pump: Air-source heat pumps are generally cheaper to install than ground-source (geothermal) heat pumps, which require more complex installation.
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Size and Capacity: The size of the system needed depends on the size of the property and its heating/cooling requirements. Larger systems typically cost more.
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Installation Complexity: If you’re opting for a ground-source heat pump, the installation process can be more complicated and expensive due to the need for drilling or trenching.
Whilst Heat Pumps require a significant initial investment, it’s important to remember that heat pumps offer long-term savings, which we’ll cover next.
Running Costs: What You Can Save
Heat pumps are known for their energy efficiency. Unlike conventional systems, which generate heat, heat pumps simply move it, using a small amount of electricity. This can lead to substantial savings on your energy bills.
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Efficiency: For every unit of electricity used, heat pumps can deliver 3-4 units of heat. This makes them significantly more efficient than gas boilers or electric heaters, which have a much lower efficiency.
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Fuel Savings: If you're currently using electricity or oil to heat your home, switching to a heat pump can cut your heating costs by up to 50%. Even homes using natural gas can benefit from the shift to a more efficient system.
However, the actual savings will depend on your energy tariffs, the efficiency of your current system, and how much heating and cooling your property needs. It's important to factor in the ongoing cost of electricity, which may fluctuate over time.
The Payback Period: How Long Will It Take?
The true payback period for a heat pump is the time it takes to recover your initial investment through savings on energy bills. Here’s how to think about it:
1. Energy Savings
As mentioned earlier, the energy savings with a heat pump can be significant, especially if you’re switching from electric or oil heating. A rough estimate suggests that a heat pump could save a household around £500 to £1,000 per year on heating bills. For a larger home or one in a colder climate, savings could be even greater.
2. Incentives and Grants
Governments in many regions offer financial incentives to make the transition to heat pumps more affordable. For example, in the UK, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme allows homeowners to claim £7,500 towards the purchase of a new air source or ground source heat pump systems on their property. These incentives can significantly shorten your payback period, sometimes cutting installation costs by up to 40%.
3. Longevity and Maintenance
Heat pumps have a long lifespan of around 15 to 25 years, which means they continue saving you money well beyond the initial payback period. Additionally, they require minimal maintenance, which helps keep operating costs low.
Given these factors, the typical payback period for a heat pump is between 5 to 12 years. The exact number depends on the size of the system, the efficiency of your home, your local climate, and how much you use your heating system. In some cases, particularly with high heating bills or high-efficiency systems, payback could be even faster.
Factors That Can Affect Payback Time
While the average payback period falls between 5 and 12 years, it’s important to consider several factors that can influence the timeline:
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Energy Prices: If electricity prices rise significantly during your payback period, it could extend the time it takes to recoup your investment. Conversely, if you use a renewable electricity supplier or generate your own energy (via solar panels, for example), you could shorten the payback period.
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Building Efficiency: A poorly insulated home will require more energy to heat and cool, which will impact your savings and extend the payback time. Ensure your home is properly insulated to maximize the efficiency of your heat pump.
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Climate: The climate in which you live plays a significant role. Colder regions will require more energy to heat your home, potentially leading to higher savings, but also a longer payback time due to the higher initial investment.
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Size and Usage: Larger homes or those with higher heating demands will see a longer payback period simply because the upfront costs will be greater.
Conclusion: Is It Worth the Investment?
The true payback time for heat pumps is not an easy one-size-fits-all figure. However, with an average payback period of 5 to 12 years, heat pumps are a sound long-term investment for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy bills. As energy efficiency continues to become a priority for both homeowners and businesses, heat pumps stand out as a leading option for sustainable heating and cooling.
Not only do heat pumps offer an attractive return on investment, but they also contribute to reducing the overall demand for fossil fuels, helping to combat climate change in the process. By carefully considering your unique circumstances—including incentives, energy prices, and the efficiency of your building— Custom Renewables can help you make an informed decision about whether a heat pump is the right choice for you.
Contact us today for more information.
Do You Need to Upgrade Your Pipes for a Heat Pump?
Do you need to upgrade your pipes for a heat pump or will your existing plumbing system be suitable?
This is a common question our customers ask when looking to make the switch to a heat pump. After all, a heat pump operates differently from traditional heating systems. This leads homeowners to wonder if their current setup can handle the new technology.
In this article, we’ll explore the relationship between heat pumps and plumbing. We'll clarify when an upgrade might be necessary and explain the factors that can affect the compatibility of your pipes with a heat pump system.
How Heat Pumps Work: A Quick Overview
To understand whether you need to upgrade your pipes, it’s helpful to first know how heat pumps work. Heat pumps use refrigerant to transfer heat between two areas. They extract heat from outside (air, ground, or water) and move it inside to heat your home in the winter. They can also reverse the process to provide cooling in the summer.
There are two main types of heat pumps:
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Air-source heat pumps: These extract heat from the outside air.
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Ground-source (geothermal) heat pumps: These extract heat from the ground via a series of pipes buried underground.
While both types are highly efficient, they rely on different systems to operate. So, when it comes to whether you need to upgrade your pipes, the answer largely depends on the type of heat pump and the system you have in place.
Upgrading Pipes: When is It Necessary?
For the most part, air-source heat pumps won’t require any upgrades to your existing plumbing system. These systems transfer heat via air handlers and radiators. They typically don’t have much to do with your home’s water pipes. However, when considering a ground-source heat pump, your existing plumbing might need some adjustments.
1. Ground-Source Heat Pumps and Existing Pipes
Ground-source heat pumps involve a more complex installation process, including an underground loop system that circulates water or a water-antifreeze mixture through pipes buried in the ground. These pipes transfer heat to and from the ground to regulate your home's temperature.
If your property already has an existing hydronic heating system (such as underfloor heating or radiators that use hot water), there’s a chance that your pipes will be compatible with a ground-source heat pump. However, there are a few considerations that could require an upgrade:
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Pipe Diameter and Flow Rate: The flow rate of water in the system needs to match the heat pump's output. If your existing pipes are too narrow or not designed for high-efficiency heat transfer, you may need to upgrade them to ensure the system works effectively.
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Corrosion and Material Integrity: Older pipes may have developed corrosion over time, which can hinder the heat pump's performance. In such cases, replacing sections of the piping could be necessary to prevent future leaks and maintain efficiency.
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Heat Distribution: Ground-source systems need to distribute heat effectively throughout your home. If your existing pipes or radiators don't work well with the lower temperature water that heat pumps typically use, you may need to upgrade your radiators or pipework to maintain optimal performance.
2. Air-Source Heat Pumps and Existing Pipes
Air-source heat pumps are less likely to require significant upgrades to your plumbing. Since they work by transferring heat through air handlers, radiators, or fan coils, they are typically independent of your water pipes. That said, there may be some indirect impact on your plumbing, particularly if you're converting from a traditional boiler system:
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Hot Water System Compatibility: If you're replacing a traditional boiler system with an air-source heat pump, you might have a hot water cylinder or storage tank that needs to be adapted to the lower temperatures that heat pumps typically use. In this case, you may need to check if your existing hot water pipes, tank, and fittings are compatible with the new setup.
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Integration with Underfloor Heating: If your home uses an underfloor heating system, which runs on water, your pipes will generally be fine with an air-source heat pump, as these systems are designed for lower temperature heating. However, you may still need to adjust the flow rate or upgrade the size of the pipework. This depends on the specifics of your current system and the heat pump model you're installing.
Other Factors to Consider Before Upgrading Pipes
While the type of heat pump you’re installing is a major factor, there are several other considerations that may affect whether you need to upgrade your pipes:
1. Age and Condition of Your Plumbing
Older plumbing systems may not be as well-equipped to handle the demands of a heat pump, particularly if they’ve experienced wear and tear. If you have an older system with galvanized steel pipes, for example, you may face issues with corrosion and clogging, which could impact the efficiency of the heat pump. Replacing old pipes before installing the heat pump can prevent future problems and improve overall system efficiency.
2. Insulation and Pipework Efficiency
Even if your existing pipes are in good condition, you should also consider their insulation. Properly insulated pipes will reduce energy loss, improving the overall efficiency of the heat pump system. In some cases, upgrading insulation or adding extra insulation to exposed pipes can help minimise heat loss and ensure maximum performance.
3. System Sizing
Correct sizing of the system is essential for ensuring both efficiency and longevity. If the pipes are too small or the system is over-sized for your home’s heating and cooling needs, it could lead to inefficiencies. It could also cause wear and tear on your pipes. It is important for a professional to assess your system before installation to ensure everything is sized correctly.
When is Pipework Upgrading Not Needed?
If you are installing an air-source heat pump or if your property already has an efficient hydronic heating system in place (with appropriately sized and in good condition pipes), you may not need to make any significant upgrades. Additionally, if you're installing the heat pump as part of a new build or a full renovation, your plumbing system can be designed from scratch to suit the new system.
In these cases, a thorough assessment by a heat pump installer can help determine that your current plumbing setup is ready to support the new system without major adjustments.
Conclusion: Do You Need to Upgrade Your Pipes?
The need to upgrade pipes depends on the type of heat pump, the condition of existing plumbing, and how the system is configured.
For air-source heat pumps, upgrades to your pipes are generally not necessary unless you're switching from a traditional boiler system or integrating with underfloor heating. Ground-source heat pumps, however, may require some adjustments to your pipework, especially if you're working with older systems or need to upgrade to handle the heat transfer more efficiently.
Our award-winning engineers will always evaluate your specific situation. They will make recommendations to ensure that your heat pump operates at maximum efficiency for years to come without the need for major pipework upgrades.
If you are considering a heat pump for your property, contact us here for a free quote.
What to Ask Before Choosing a Renewable Installer
When it comes to solar panels, heat pumps, or battery storage, the installer you choose can make or break your investment. Unfortunately, the rapid growth in demand for renewable systems has led to a rise in inexperienced or unqualified installers especially in high-value property projects where budgets are larger and expectations are higher.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the 7 essential questions to ask before hiring a renewable energy installer so you can avoid costly mistakes and get the expert service your home deserves.
Why It Matters
Installing renewables in high-end homes, barn conversions, or self-builds isn’t the same as doing a basic solar job on a new estate house. These projects require technical knowledge, aesthetic sensitivity, and careful planning to ensure performance, comfort, and visual harmony.
Choosing the wrong installer can lead to:
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Poorly sized or inefficient systems
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Damage to your property’s appearance or structure
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Expensive rework or future system failure
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Warranty issues or non-compliance with regulations
Here's 7 Key Questions to Ask Any Renewable Installer
1. Are You MCS-Certified?
Why it matters:
MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certification is the baseline for renewable energy installations in the UK. It ensures the installer follows proper procedures and that you remain eligible for any government grants or incentives (like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme or SEG payments).
Custom Renewables is proud to be MCS-Certified.
2. Can You Show Me Case Studies or Projects Similar to Mine?
Why it matters:
Self-builds, barn conversions, and heritage homes come with unique challenges — complex rooflines, thick stone walls, or planning restrictions. You want an installer with proven experience in properties like yours, not just new-build estates.
Custom Renewables can offer photos, client testimonials, and before-and-after shots of real installs. You can find case studies in the knowledge hub section of our website. We are also happy to organise site visits for customers to see examples of our previous work.
3. Do You Offer a Bespoke Design Based on My Property’s Needs?
Why it matters:
A "one-size-fits-all" system won’t cut it in a high-end home. You need a tailored design based on:
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Energy usage patterns
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Orientation and shading
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Architectural integration
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Long-term energy goals
Custom Renewables will carry out a full site survey, load assessment, and heat loss calculation before quoting your project. We design a bespoke system based on the individual requirements of each customer.
4. What Brands and Warranties Do You Use?
Why it matters:
Not all solar panels, batteries, or heat pumps are created equal. Some cheap systems have shorter lifespans or limited support. Be sure your installer uses premium, trusted brands and offers solid warranties (ideally 5–10 years or more).
Pro tip: Ask if they're an approved installer for those brands — it often extends warranty and support options.
Custom Renewables only use reputable, reliable brands that are at the top of their game within the industry. We are proud to be approved installers for Veissmann, Valliant and Nibe.
5. Do You Provide Ongoing Support and Maintenance?
Why it matters:
Even the best systems need periodic checks or occasional troubleshooting. You want an installer who will be around for the long haul, not someone who disappears after the job is done.
What to ask:
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Do you offer maintenance packages?
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Can I monitor my system remotely?
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What’s your response time if I have an issue.
Customer Renewables are always on hand to deal with any issues should they arise. We also offer a comprehensive Maintenance and Service Plan with every heat pump installation. Our plan is designed to provide a dependable, professional, and cost-effective service. It ensures that your heat pump operates at its peak performance throughout the year.
6. How Do You Handle Aesthetics and Design Integration?
Why it matters:
In premium homes, visual impact is just as important as performance. Will your panels clash with slate tiles? Is the heat pump going to be visible from the driveway? Will ducting or cabling spoil the interior?
A high-end installer should work with your architect, builder, or interior designer to blend form and function seamlessly.
At Custom Renewables we are frequently working alongside other contractors to bring the very best results to our clients. We have our own team of contractors that we can recommend or happy to work with contractors as appointed by our customers.
7. Can You Explain the Payback and Performance Expectations Clearly?
Why it matters:
You need realistic, transparent numbers — not sales hype. A good installer will provide:
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Estimated annual savings
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System performance projections (kWh/year)
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Payback period based on your actual usage
Beware of companies that overpromise returns or dodge clear data.
Custom Renewables will always provide you with an estimate of the numbers you can expect from your installation. You can also check out the performance of some of our previous customers systems here
Final Thoughts: Invest in Expertise, Not Just Equipment
Renewable energy systems can add real value to your home — in comfort, efficiency, and property resale — but only when installed correctly, sensitively, and intelligently. Don’t settle for generic solutions or slick sales pitches.
At Custom Renewables we specialise in bespoke renewable energy systems for high-end homes, barn conversions, and self-builds. Our team combines technical expertise with architectural awareness — so you get clean energy without compromising your home’s character or performance.
Thinking about a project? Contact us here for a free consultation or property assessment today.
5 Renewable Energy Mistakes in Luxury Homes
In this article, we share the top 5 mistakes homeowners and builders make when integrating renewable energy systems into luxury homes. We've also included tips on how to avoid them. Whether you’re designing a self-build, renovating a barn conversion, or upgrading your current home, these insights can save you time, money, and stress.
Installing renewable energy systems like solar panels, heat pumps, and battery storage in high-end homes is a smart, forward-thinking investment. But premium properties often come with complex requirements. This can include unique layouts, heritage restrictions, or high energy demands meaning even small planning mistakes can lead to underperformance or costly rework.
1. Overlooking Early Design Integration
Mistake:
Treating renewable systems as an afterthought during design or renovation planning.
Why It Matters:
High-end homes often have custom layouts and structural challenges (e.g. vaulted ceilings, limited roof access). Without early-stage coordination between your architect, builder, and renewable specialist, the result can be poor system placement or limited performance.
Solution:
Involve a renewable energy expert during the initial design phase. We can recommend orientation tweaks, mechanical space planning, and smart tech integration that blends function with aesthetics.
2. Underestimating Energy Load Requirements
Mistake:
Installing systems that don’t match the true heating, cooling, or power demands of the property.
Why It Matters:
Luxury homes typically have larger footprints, more occupants, and high-load features (underfloor heating, EV chargers, air con). A system designed for a standard home just won’t cut it.
Solution:
We always carry out a detailed energy usage and heat loss assessment to size your solar array, heat pump, and battery storage properly — ensuring comfort and efficiency year-round.
3. Choosing Style Over System Performance
Mistake:
Prioritising visual appearance over technical performance (e.g. hidden panels, poorly oriented roof installs).
Why It Matters:
It’s understandable to want a clean, minimalist look — but compromising on orientation, tilt, or ventilation can severely impact output.
Solution:
We offer design-conscious solutions that balance aesthetics with performance — such as integrated solar tiles, discrete ducting routes, and tailored panel placement that works with your home’s architecture.
4. Ignoring Long-Term Maintenance & Access
Mistake:
Failing to plan for easy access or serviceability of key systems like heat pumps, batteries, or inverters.
Why It Matters:
You don't want to dismantle cladding or drill through solid oak flooring just to change a filter or troubleshoot a system fault.
Solution:
We ensure all systems are strategically placed for serviceability, with smart monitoring tools for predictive maintenance. This ensures that your tech stays hidden, but accessible when needed.
5. Not Taking Advantage of Smart Home Integration
Mistake:
Installing standalone systems with no central control or automation.
Why It Matters:
Modern renewables work best when integrated. For example, solar energy can charge your EV or run your air con during peak sun hours but only with a smart controller or energy management system.
Solution:
We specialise in smart energy ecosystems — linking your solar, battery, heat pump, and air conditioning into a unified system you can control from your phone, wherever you are.
Final Thoughts: Precision Planning = Luxury-Level Results
Renewable energy systems in luxury homes are an investment — not just in sustainability, but in comfort, control, and long-term efficiency. Avoiding the common pitfalls above means fewer compromises, fewer surprises, and far better results.
At Custom Renewables, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners future-proof their properties with tailored, intelligent renewable solutions. If you're building a new property, renovating, or just exploring options, contact us for a bespoke consultation.
Big Changes to Air Source Heat Pump Rules (May 2025)
Starting 29th May 2025, major updates to planning laws in England will make it significantly easier to install an air source heat pump at your home. These changes remove key barriers and are part of the government’s Warm Homes Plan to scale up the UK’s transition to low-carbon heating systems.
The new rules support the UK’s goal of installing 600,000 heat pumps per year by 2028, and they simplify the process for homeowners, landlords, and renewable energy installers.
What’s Changing? Permitted Development Rules for ASHPs
The updated planning policy introduces several important benefits for anyone considering air source heat pump installation:
No More 1-Metre Boundary Rule
You’ll no longer need to keep your heat pump 1 metre from the property boundary making it far easier to install systems on smaller plots or terraced homes.
Larger Units Now Permitted
The maximum size allowed under permitted development increases from 0.6m³ to 1.5m³, meaning you can install a more powerful ASHP without extra red tape.
Two Heat Pumps for Detached Homes
Detached houses can now have up to two air source heat pumps under the new rules — ideal for larger homes or setups with cascade systems for better efficiency.
Cooling Systems Now Included
Air-to-air heat pumps that provide both heating and cooling are now covered by permitted development rights, recognising changing climate needs.
Updated Noise Compliance: MCS 020
Installations must follow the latest MCS 020 noise standard, helping ensure minimal disruption for neighbours and a smooth path to certification.
These changes are outlined in The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) (Amendment) Order 2025.
Why It Matters for Homeowners & Installers
More Properties Can Switch to Renewables
Scrapping the boundary rule enables thousands of extra households to adopt clean heating without needing planning approval.
Faster, More Affordable Installs
Avoiding the planning process means quicker installation timelines and reduced upfront costs for homeowners.
No Need to Compromise on Performance
The new size allowance ensures that even larger, energy-hungry homes can benefit from efficient heat pump systems.
Year-Round Comfort
With air-to-air heat pumps now included, homeowners get both winter warmth and summer cooling from a single renewable system.
Easier Compliance for Installers
The alignment with MCS 020 and simplified planning routes makes life easier for MCS-certified heat pump installers, speeding up project pipelines.
What is Permitted Development for Heat Pumps?
Permitted development allows certain home improvements to be made without full planning permission, provided they meet key criteria. Under the new ASHP rules:
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You can install a unit up to 1.5m³ (or two for detached homes)
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Installations must comply with updated noise standards
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No planning permission is needed unless your property is:
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Listed
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In a conservation area
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A flat or non-standard dwelling
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What About Flats or Semi-Detached Homes?
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Terraced/Semi-detached Homes: Now allowed 1 unit up to 1.5m³
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Flats: Still limited to one unit, up to 0.6m³ per flat
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Special Cases: Always check with your local council for listed buildings or protected zones
MCS 020: New Standards for Noise
To comply with MCS 020, installers must:
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Conduct a noise assessment during installation
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Ensure the ASHP stays within strict decibel limits at property boundaries
This reduces noise complaints and supports smoother project approvals.
At Customer Renewables, we work closely with every client to discuss their individual requirements. We make sure that the Heat Pump installed is the right choice for their home as well as meeting planning laws.
If you are considering a Heat pump for your property and would like some further information, you can contact us here.
