Should You Pair an Air Source Heat Pump With Solar Panels? (And Is It Worth it?)
Pairing an air source heat pump with solar panels is becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills amid fluctuating gas and electricity prices.
With that in mind, we’re going to take a closer look at whether this combination really works, the benefits it can bring, and what you can expect in terms of installation costs.
Key Takeaways
- Pairing a heat pump with solar panels is certainly possible and can make your home more energy-efficient.
- A heat pump is already a cost-efficient way to heat your home. Adding solar panels can complement this by cutting your grid use even more.
- You could save a significant amount on your energy bills, especially if your home has high daytime electricity use.
- Government grants in England, Wales, and Scotland can cover part or sometimes all of the costs of the systems.
Is it Possible to Heat Your Home with a Heat Pump and Solar Panels?
The short answer is yes. Heat pumps run entirely on electricity, unlike gas or oil boilers, but thanks to their high coefficient of performance, they typically produce 3–4 kWh of heat for every 1 kWh of electricity consumed. This means they are more efficient and cheaper to run, and can be powered directly by energy from solar panels or by electricity from the grid.
On sunny days, solar panels can supply the electricity your heat pump needs, and even on overcast days they can still generate around 10–25% of their usual output. When installed correctly in a suitable property, a heat pump can already help you save on heating bills. Combining the two systems can lower your energy costs even further, reduce reliance on the grid, and shrink your carbon footprint.
Some homeowners worry about being out during the day when solar panels are most productive. However, heat pumps don’t work like traditional boilers that fire in short bursts. They perform best when running consistently at a lower temperature, keeping your home evenly warm. This means solar power can still contribute to that steady energy demand, even while you are out.
So yes, it is possible to heat your home with a heat pump and solar panels, and in many cases, it can be a very efficient and cost-effective way to do so.
Is a Heat Pump Right for Your Home?
Heat pumps are becoming a popular way to heat homes. Last year alone, almost 100,000 heat pumps were installed in the UK. But they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
If you’re thinking about installing one, here’s what you need to know.
How Heat Pumps Work
Air source heat pumps extract heat from the air outside and bring it into your home. They work a bit like a refrigerator in reverse, pulling warmth from the outside, even when it’s cold, and using it to heat your property and hot water.
Is Your Home Ready For A Heat Pump?
Heat pumps work best in homes that can retain heat efficiently. If you’re considering upgrading your heating system, here are some factors that make your home a great fit:
Insulated walls: Well-insulated walls help keep the warmth generated by the heat pump inside your home.
Loft insulation: A loft insulated with 200–300mm of insulation boosts energy efficiency and comfort.
Double or triple glazed windows: High-quality windows help maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
Outdoor space: Air source heat pumps need an outdoor unit, and having a suitable spot makes installation easier.
If your property meets most of these requirements, it is well placed to benefit from a heat pump. For those unsure whether a heat pump is the right choice, contact us and we will be happy to assess your property and guide you towards the best solution.
Heat Pump Costs and Available Grants
The cost of installing an air source heat pump varies depending on the size, capacity, and brand, but most systems typically cost around £13,000.
If you live in England or Wales, you may be eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, a government grant that can contribute £7,500 towards your heat pump.
In Scotland, the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan Scheme can provide up to £15,000 in support. This includes up to £7,500 for energy efficiency improvements, such as insulation, plus £7,500 towards your heat pump installation.
Some homeowners may even qualify for a free heat pump through the Connected for Warmth programme. If you meet the eligibility criteria, the scheme covers the full cost of the heat pump, installation, and any necessary property upgrades—meaning there’s nothing to pay out of pocket.
If you’d like help figuring out which schemes you might qualify for, get in touch - we can guide you through your options.
How to Know if Solar Panels Are Right for Your Home
Solar panels are a popular way to generate clean, renewable energy and reduce your electricity bills. But like any home upgrade, they work best under certain conditions. Before you invest, it’s worth considering a few key factors to see if your property is a good fit.
How Solar Panels Work
Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity that can power your home. Any excess energy can often be stored in a battery or fed back into the grid, helping you save even more. The more sunlight your panels receive, the more electricity they can generate.
Is Your Home Ready for Solar?
Solar panels perform best on homes that can capture and use as much sunlight as possible. Here are some factors that make your property ideal:
Roof orientation and angle: South-facing roofs with a gentle slope capture the most sunlight throughout the day.
Roof condition: Panels work best on roofs that are in good shape and won’t need replacing soon. Installing them on a new or recently refurbished roof can save time and money.
Shading: Trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings can reduce efficiency, so a mostly clear roof is ideal.
Energy usage: Homes that use more electricity during the daytime benefit the most, as this is when solar panels are generating power.
Solar PV Costs and Available Grants
A solar PV system typically costs between £4,000 and £10,000, depending on the size of the array. There’s support available through government grants such as ECO4, which in some cases can cover 100% of the funding for solar panels (and even a heat pump).
It’s worth noting that eligibility criteria apply, and the amount of support you can receive may vary depending on your property, income, or other factors.
If you’re unsure whether solar is right for your home, get in touch with Instagroup, who will be able to assess your property, help you understand the potential savings, and explore the best solar options to suit your needs.
Does It Make Financial Sense to Install Both?
Pairing an air source heat pump with solar can lead to significant savings over time. Solar electricity can power your heat pump, reducing the amount of energy you buy from the grid. For homes with higher heating demand, this can shorten the payback period and make the investment more worthwhile.
Every property is different, but homeowners often see the biggest savings when:
Heating is electrified through a heat pump
Daytime energy use is high
There’s enough roof space for a well-sized solar array
For a lot of households, a heat pump alone can already make a noticeable difference to heating bills. Add solar panels into the mix, and the savings can grow even more, especially over time. The upfront cost might feel a bit steep, but generous government incentives in England, Wales, and Scotland can cover a big chunk of it. And in some cases, homeowners may even qualify for a fully funded heat pump.
You’re likely to get the most out of a heat pump and solar PV if:
You don’t plan on moving house anytime soon
Your home is well insulated
Your roof can support a decent-sized solar array
You can access government grants
You want to reduce your carbon footprint
Even if your home doesn’t tick every box, using solar PV alongside a heat pump is a smart way to cut energy bills, protect against rising energy prices, and make your home greener.
If you’re curious whether your home is a good fit for a heat pump, solar panels, or both, get in touch with us. We can assess your property, guide you through the available grants, and help you find the solution that works best for your home and lifestyle.
Looking to Install a heat pump?
If you’re considering replacing your fossil fuel system with a heat pump, you could be eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Click the link below to get in touch with us, and we’ll help you find out if you qualify for the grant.