Below are the best practical strategies to make your heat pump perform at its peak — saving you money while keeping your home cosy.
1. Improve Your Home’s Insulation First
Heat pumps work best in well-insulated properties. The UK has many older homes, and insulation upgrades make a big difference.
Focus on:
- Loft insulation (270mm recommended)
- Cavity or solid-wall insulation
- Double/triple glazing
- Draught-proofing around doors and windows
Better insulation means:
- Lower heat loss
- Lower running costs
- A more comfortable indoor temperature
2. Use Low Flow Temperatures (The #1 Efficiency Booster)
Heat pumps perform best when running at low, steady temperatures.
Optimal flow temperature:
35–45°C (vs. 60–80°C for gas boilers)
Lower flow temperatures = higher COP = cheaper bills.
How to achieve low flow temperatures:
- Install larger radiators or underfloor heating
- Balance your heating system
- Ensure thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) are open, not choking flow
If your radiators feel “not very hot”, that’s normal — heat pumps rely on gentle, continuous heat, not quick blasts.
3. Keep Your Heat Pump Running Steadily
Avoid turning your heat pump on and off like a traditional boiler.
Heat pumps are most efficient when they:
- Run for longer periods
- Maintain consistent room temperature
- Avoid frequent cycling
Recommended settings:
- Set a comfortable target (e.g., 18–20°C)
- Leave the system running throughout the day in colder months
- Use nighttime setback rather than turning it off completely
4. Optimise Your Thermostat and Controls
Smart control settings help your heat pump think ahead.
Best practices:
- Use weather compensation (adjusts flow temperature automatically)
- Avoid aggressive thermostat schedules
- Use gradual heating plans
- Check that thermostats are in appropriate rooms (not near heat sources or drafts)
Weather compensation alone can improve efficiency by 10–20%.
5. Use Off-Peak Electricity Tariffs
In the UK, many energy providers offer heat-pump-friendly tariffs.
Potential options:
- Octopus Cosy
- Octopus Agile
- OVO Heat Pump Tariffs
- EDF GoElectric
Using cheaper off-peak electricity for heating and hot water reduces running costs significantly.
6. Maintain Your Heat Pump Annually
A well-maintained heat pump lasts longer and runs more efficiently.
Tasks during servicing:
- Clean external unit and coils
- Check refrigerant pressure
- Inspect filters
- Test electrical connections
- Verify system controls
DIY maintenance:
- Keep leaves and debris away from the outdoor unit
- Ensure airflow is unobstructed
- Clear snow/ice in winter
A simple clean can boost efficiency by up to 5–10%.
7. Pair with Solar Panels for Additional Savings
Solar PV and heat pumps are a perfect duo.
Benefits:
- Offsets electricity used for heating
- Cuts running costs dramatically
- Increases your home’s EPC rating
- Reduces reliance on grid power
On sunny winter days, your solar panels can power much of your heating.
8. Make Use of UK Government Grants
Depending on region and eligibility, you may access:
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
- £7,500 grant for ASHP or GSHP installation
- England & Wales
Home Energy Scotland Grants/Loans
- Up to £15,000 in support
ECO4 Scheme / ECO+
- For low-income households
These schemes can significantly reduce upfront costs and improve return on investment.
Heat Pump Efficiency FAQs (UK Homeowners)
Do heat pumps work in older UK homes?
Yes — provided insulation and radiator upgrades are done properly.
Will my heating bills be cheaper?
In well-insulated homes with low flow temperatures and good tariffs, yes — often 20–40% cheaper.
Are heat pumps noisy?
Modern ASHPs are quiet (40–60 dB), similar to a fridge or dishwasher.
Do heat pumps work in freezing temperatures?
Absolutely. Heat pumps work efficiently even at –10°C to –20°C.