5 Best air source heat pumps in the UK
Finding the best air source heat pump for your home in the UK can significantly reduce energy bills, lower carbon emissions, and provide reliable heating and hot water.
Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are an efficient renewable heating solution, especially popular among homeowners and landlords in regions like Greater London, Southern England, South West England, and South Wales.
With the Boiler Upgrade Scheme offering a £7,500 grant, now is an ideal time to upgrade from traditional gas boilers to one of the best air source heat pumps available.
In this guide, I’ll highlight the top models suited to UK homes, focusing on efficiency, performance, and value.
Top 5 Air Source Heat Pumps in the UK: At a Glance
Here’s a quick comparison of the top 5 best air source heat pumps in the UK, based on efficiency (SCOP – Seasonal Coefficient of Performance), output range, noise levels, and estimated costs after the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant (installed costs typically range from £8,000–£15,000 before grant, depending on home size and upgrades needed).
| Rank | Model | Best For | SCOP (up to) | Output Range (kW) | Noise Level (dB) | Est. Cost After Grant | Warranty (years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vaillant aroTHERM plus | Overall performance & efficiency | 5.03 | 3.5–12 | 30–54 | £3,000–£7,000 | 7–10 |
| 2 | Mitsubishi Ecodan | Reliability in cold weather | 4.7 | 5–14 | 40–50 | £2,500–£6,500 | 7 |
| 3 | Daikin Altherma 3 | Colder climates & high temperatures | 5.0 | 4–18 | 43–50 | £3,500–£8,000 | 5–7 |
| 4 | Viessmann Vitocal | Compact homes & high efficiency | 5.0 | 2–15 | 30–56 | £4,000–£8,000 | 5–7 |
| 5 | LG Therma V R32 | Value for money | 4.9 | 5–16 | 45–55 | £2,000–£6,000 | 7 |
Vaillant aroTHERM plus
The Vaillant aroTHERM plus stands out as one of the best air source heat pumps due to its exceptional efficiency and use of eco-friendly R290 refrigerant.
Key Specifications:
- Output: 3.5–12 kW
- SCOP: Up to 5.03
- Noise: As low as 30 dB in quiet mode
- Flow temperature: Up to 75°C
- Suitable for: Radiators, underfloor heating, and hot water cylinders
Pros:
- Outstanding energy efficiency, leading to lower running costs
- Extremely quiet operation, ideal for densely populated areas like London or Brighton
- Long warranty and strong manufacturer support
- Compatible with solar PV for even greater savings
Cons:
- Higher initial unit cost compared to some rivals
- May require larger radiators in older properties for optimal performance
Estimated installed cost: £8,000–£14,000 before grant; £500–£6,500 after £7,500 grant.
Mitsubishi Ecodan
The Mitsubishi Ecodan is renowned for reliability, making it a top choice for homeowners and landlords seeking a dependable best air source heat pump.
Key Specifications:
- Output: 5–14 kW
- SCOP: Up to 4.7
- Noise: Around 40–50 dB (ultra-quiet models available)
- Flow temperature: Up to 75°C
- Suitable for: Most UK homes, including retrofits
Pros:
- Excellent performance in low temperatures
- Proven long-term reliability with minimal breakdowns
- Easy-to-use controls and smart app integration
- Strong cold-weather efficiency for areas like Oxford or Southampton
Cons:
- Slightly lower SCOP than some premium competitors
- Installation can be more complex in tight spaces
Estimated installed cost: £7,500–£14,000 before grant; £0–£6,500 after grant.
Daikin Altherma 3
The Daikin Altherma 3 excels in challenging conditions, positioning it as one of the best air source heat pumps for colder or exposed UK regions.
Key Specifications:
- Output: 4–18 kW
- SCOP: Up to 5.0
- Noise: 43–50 dB
- Flow temperature: Up to 70°C
- Suitable for: Larger homes or high-temperature needs
Pros:
- Operates efficiently down to -28°C
- High flow temperatures for existing radiator systems
- Robust build and good installer network in Southern England
- Cooling capability for hotter summers
Cons:
- Can be noisier than ultra-quiet alternatives
- Higher cost for larger output models
Estimated installed cost: £9,000–£15,000 before grant; £1,500–£7,500 after grant.
Viessmann Vitocal
The Viessmann Vitocal offers compact design and top-tier efficiency, ideal for modern or space-limited properties seeking the best air source heat pump.
Key Specifications:
- Output: 2–15 kW
- SCOP: Up to 5.0
- Noise: 30–56 dB
- Flow temperature: Up to 70°C
- Suitable for: New builds and retrofits with limited outdoor space
Pros:
- Very compact monobloc design
- High efficiency and low running costs
- Advanced acoustic design for quieter operation
- Excellent for properties in Bristol or Cardiff
Cons:
- Warranty shorter unless extended
- Premium pricing reflects advanced technology
Estimated installed cost: £9,000–£15,000 before grant; £1,500–£7,500 after grant.
LG Therma V R32
The LG Therma V R32 provides excellent value, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious homeowners looking for the best air source heat pump.
Key Specifications:
- Output: 5–16 kW
- SCOP: Up to 4.9
- Noise: 45–55 dB
- Flow temperature: Up to 65°C
- Suitable for: Medium to large homes
Pros:
- Competitive pricing and good efficiency
- Smart controls and energy monitoring
- Reliable performance with R32 refrigerant
- Great value in areas like South Wales
Cons:
- Slightly higher noise than top quiet models
- May need additional upgrades for very old homes
Estimated installed cost: £7,000–£13,000 before grant; £0–£5,500 after grant.
How Do You Choose the Best Air Source Heat Pump for Your UK Home?
Choosing the best air source heat pump involves assessing several key factors to ensure it matches your property’s needs, budget, and location. Here’s a buyer’s guide to help homeowners and landlords in regions like Greater London, Southern England, South West England, and South Wales make the right decision.
Efficiency Ratings (SCOP and COP)
Efficiency ratings like SCOP determine how much heat the pump produces per unit of electricity. Look for a SCOP of 4.5 or higher for the best savings – higher SCOP means lower bills.
System Size and Heating Output
System size and heating output must match your home’s heat loss. A professional heat loss survey ensures the kW rating suits your property, avoiding undersizing (poor heating) or oversizing (higher costs).
Noise Levels
Noise levels are crucial in built-up areas. Opt for models under 50 dB for minimal disturbance – many top units have quiet modes perfect for residential zones in Brighton or Southampton.
Costs, Grants, and Running Expenses
Costs, grants, and running expenses include upfront installation (£8,000–£15,000) offset by the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant. Factor in potential savings of 20–50% on bills compared to gas boilers.
Compatibility with Existing Systems
Compatibility with existing systems matters – many ASHPs work with radiators if oversized, or pair perfectly with underfloor heating. Check if upgrades are needed for older homes.
Warranty and Installer Support
Warranty and installer support provide peace of mind. Choose brands with 7+ years warranty and MCS-certified installers for quality and grant eligibility.
Why Should You Request a Quote from EE Renewables Ltd for Your Air Source Heat Pump?
Requesting a quote from EE Renewables Ltd is the smartest next step if you’re in Southern England, Greater London, South West England, or South Wales. As local experts in areas including London, Brighton, Oxford, Southampton, Bristol, and Cardiff, EE Renewables Ltd offers tailored advice, professional installation, and access to the full £7,500 grant. Get a no-obligation quote today to start enjoying efficient, eco-friendly heating.
FAQs
Can air source heat pumps provide cooling as well as heating?
Yes, many modern ASHPs like the Daikin Altherma 3 offer reversible operation for cooling during summer, making them versatile for changing UK weather.
Are air source heat pumps suitable for listed buildings or conservation areas?
In many cases, yes – monobloc designs minimise indoor work, and planning permission is often not required outside conservation areas, but always check local rules.
How do air source heat pumps perform with solar panels?
They pair excellently, using excess solar electricity to run the pump and further reduce bills – ideal for eco-conscious homeowners.
What maintenance do air source heat pumps require?
Annual servicing by a qualified engineer is recommended, similar to a boiler, to maintain efficiency and warranty.
Can landlords install ASHPs in rental properties?
Absolutely – they increase property value, improve EPC ratings, and qualify for grants, making rentals more attractive and energy-efficient.
Final Thoughts
Switching to one of the best air source heat pumps in the UK offers a future-proof way to heat your home efficiently and sustainably. From the high-efficiency Vaillant aroTHERM plus to the value-packed LG Therma V, these systems deliver impressive savings and comfort when properly selected and installed. With generous grants available and expert local support in your area, transitioning to renewable heating has never been more accessible for homeowners and landlords alike.
