Heat Pump Guides
Five short guides covering the numbers behind heat pump running costs, sizing and tariffs.
These five guides explain the variables that change a UK heat pump's running cost: SCOP (efficiency), electricity tariff, sizing, and how the total compares with a gas boiler. Together they cover why two identical heat pumps can cost 50% or more apart to run, and what to check before you sign off an installation.
What is SCOP?
SCOP measures heat pump efficiency across a UK heating season. Higher SCOP means lower running costs.
Best Electricity Tariffs
Time-of-use tariffs like Octopus Cosy can cut costs if you can shift heating to off-peak hours.
Heat Pump vs Gas Boiler
Direct cost comparison at the current Ofgem price cap. Heat pumps beat gas above roughly SCOP 3.2.
Sizing a Heat Pump
Correct sizing (kW output) is critical. Oversized pumps cost more and run less efficiently.
5 Cost Factors
Flow temperature, insulation, thermostat settings, sizing, and tariff choice, ranked by impact.
Calculate your costs: Try the heat pump running cost calculator.