Will a Heat Pump Work with My Existing Heating System?

One of the biggest advantages of an air source heat pump is that it connects to your existing wet central heating system, the same radiators and pipework you already have.

Your existing pipework is almost always reusable. The main exception is if you have very old microbore pipework (8mm or 10mm), which restricts flow and may need upgrading to 15mm or 22mm in key sections. This is relatively uncommon in post-1980s properties.

As we mentioned in our radiator article, some radiators may need upgrading to larger models, but typically 60–70% of your existing radiators will be fine. We assess every radiator during the home survey.

Your existing thermostat and programmer will be replaced with a smart thermostat that is specifically designed for heat pump operation. It learns your home's thermal characteristics and optimises performance automatically.

If you have underfloor heating in any rooms, that's excellent news, underfloor heating is the ideal emitter for a heat pump and will need no modifications at all.

The main physical change in your home is the addition of a hot water cylinder (if you currently have a combi boiler) and the outdoor unit, which sits on a concrete plinth outside your property. Most homeowners find the transition surprisingly straightforward.