Should You Switch to a Heat Pump in London?
With rising energy bills, generous government incentives, and a national drive toward net zero, more London homeowners are asking: Is it time to switch to a heat pump? Or is a modern gas boiler still the smarter choice?
At Calidra Installations Ltd, we’ve spent 25+ years advising Londoners on the right heating systems for their homes. Whether you’re exploring a heat pump installation in London or need a more efficient gas boiler, here’s what you need to know.
Why Heat Pumps Are on the Rise
According to The Guardian (April 2025), gas boilers still outnumber air source heat pumps by a ratio of 15 to 1 in the UK. However, the tide is turning—especially with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme offering £7,500 towards installation.
And thanks to new changes in planning law, it’s now easier than ever to install a heat pump—even in conservation areas, where planning permission was previously a hurdle. This update removes a major barrier for many urban households, especially those in places like Tufnell Park or Camden.
What Are the Benefits of a Heat Pump?
A heat pump works by extracting warmth from the air or ground and converting it into energy to heat your home. It’s an ultra-efficient system that can return up to 3 units of heat for every 1 unit of electricityconsumed.
Benefits of air source heat pumps include:
· Lower carbon emissions
· Long-term energy savings
· Reduced reliance on fossil fuels
· Eligibility for government funding
However, these benefits only apply when the system is installed properly and the property is suitable.
Challenges of Installing a Heat Pump in London
Here’s what makes heat pump installation in London more complex than in rural or suburban areas:
1. Limited Outdoor Space 🏘️
Heat pumps need at least 1 metre of clearance around the unit. In densely packed areas with small gardens, that can be a dealbreaker.
2. Noise and Neighbour Proximity 🔇
Even with permitted development rights, noise restrictions and boundary placement rules still apply.
3. Flats, Maisonettes, and Shared Buildings 🏢
If you live in a flat, you may need freeholder or management company approval—and shared systems aren’t usually possible.
4. Internal Upgrades 🔧
Heat pumps operate at lower temperatures than boilers, meaning many homes need better insulation, larger radiators, or a new hot water cylinder to get the most from the system.
Calidra offers full home assessments to determine your home’s compatibility with a heat pump—and whether you qualify for the £7,500 grant.
When a Gas Boiler Is Still the Better Choice
While heat pumps are the future, A-rated gas boilers still have a strong role to play—especially in urban settings.
Benefits of replacing your gas boiler:
· Lower upfront cost
· Fast, same-day installation
· No major infrastructure changes required
· Efficient heating in older or less-insulated homes
We install high-efficiency gas boilers in North London, and many customers still see real savings by upgrading an outdated model—particularly if their current system is over 10 years old.
Heat Pump vs. Gas Boiler: What’s Right for You?
Here are some quick checks to help you decide:
Q: Do you have outdoor space for a heat pump?
A: 1 metre clearance is typically needed
Q: Is your home well insulated?
A: Essential for heat pump efficiency
Q: Do you live in a flat or listed building?
A: May need extra permissions
Q: Can you upgrade radiators or hot water storage?
A: Needed for some heat pump systems
Q: Are you eligible for a grant?
A: £7,500 available via Boiler Upgrade Scheme
Why Choose Calidra for Your Heating Upgrade?
Whether you’re considering a boiler replacement or heat pump installation in London, Calidra brings expert guidance, technical know-how, and honest advice.
We don’t push one system over the other — we assess your home, listen to your needs, and recommend what’s genuinely best for you.
We offer:
· Free home surveys across North London
· Gas Safe and MCS-certified engineers
· Help securing grants through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme
· Full-service installation for both boilers and heat pumps
Heat pumps are a vital part of the UK’s journey to net zero — but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. In homes across London, modern gas boilers still make sense in many cases.
Whatever system you choose, Calidra is here to help you heat your home efficiently, affordably, and future-ready.
