How to find a qualified heat pump installer
We recommend hiring an MCS-accredited heat pump installer. These experts have the skills and knowledge needed to upgrade your home's heating system. They can also repair, service, and maintain your current system, and assess your existing setup to recommend the best heat pump for your home and budget. Here are 3 steps of how to find a qualified installer.
Learning about heat pumps with our free interactive model ensures you make an informed decision, maximise energy savings, and select the best system for your home and budget.
By using our installer listing tool you can find qualified and independent installers close to you. It's wise to look up online reviews about their business and work.
After reaching out to a few heat pump installers, it's important to have an initial discussion to understand the specifics of your project and evaluate the best options available.
Step 1: Learn about heat pumps
Before getting an air source heat pump, we suggest learning about the following topics:
How a Heat Pump Works: Understanding its operation will help you decide if it's right for your home and facilitate informed discussions with installers.
Benefits: Assess whether the comfort, cost savings, and sustainability benefits align with your goals.
Costs: Be aware of installation and ongoing expenses to budget effectively and ensure long-term value.
Government Grants: Look into available incentives to help offset installation costs.
Installation: Know what to expect during installation to choose the right installer and minimise disruptions.
Electrical Capacity: Check your home's fuse amperage—100A is ideal, but 60A can work, with potential upgrades available from your DNO.
Unit Location: Position the external ASHP unit near your current boiler and fuse box to reduce pipe runs and simplify electrical connections.
Hot Water Cylinder: Plan where to place a hot water cylinder if you don't already have one.
Home Layout: Prepare a rough plan of your home with room sizes, window dimensions, and radiator details to assist installers in providing accurate quotes.
Step 2: Find independent qualified installers
When searching for qualified heat pump installers, use these steps to ensure you find a reliable professional:
Installer Listing Tool: Utilise our installer listing tool to find qualified and independent installers in your area.
Online Reviews: Check their online reviews to gauge the reputation and quality of the installers' work.
Certifications and Experience: Verify their certifications and experience with heat pump installations to ensure they meet industry standards.
Videos and Company Descriptions: Watch videos of the installers and review their descriptions to understand their company values, expertise, and overall approach.
Step 3: Intial discussion with a few installers
During your initial discussions with heat pump installers, consider covering the following key topics to ensure you choose the best option for your home:
Property Details: Discuss the size, layout, and any specific characteristics of your home that might impact heat pump selection.
Current Heating System: Share information about your existing system and its performance, to better understand what changes might be necessary.
Energy Efficiency Goals: Talk about your objectives, whether you're looking to reduce energy bills, lower your carbon footprint, or both.
Installation Process: Inquire about the steps involved in installation, potential disruptions, and the estimated timeline for completion.
Costs and grants: Discuss the overall costs, including installation and any ongoing expenses. Also, ask about available grants or payment options that could reduce the financial burden.
References
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The Energy Saving Trust offers valuable guidance on finding a reputable installer.
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You should seek an installer listed on the Competent Persons Register, as they can self-certify compliance with building regulations and provide a certificate upon completion, eliminating the need for a building notice.
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It's also wise to verify whether the installer you're considering is listed as a qualified installer on the heat pump manufacturer's website. Here are links to the manufacturers' listings of certified installers:​
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