Heat Pumps in Kent
CPSL Kent helps homeowners, landlords and property owners across Kent choose, install and maintain the right heat pump system. We explain everything in plain English and always start with a proper survey.
What Is a Heat Pump and How Does It Work?
A heat pump is an efficient heating system that takes heat from the air, ground or water outside your property and uses it to warm your home and provide hot water.
Even when outdoor temperatures drop below zero, there is still enough energy in the air or ground for a heat pump to extract and use. The system works a bit like a fridge in reverse — instead of pushing heat out, it draws heat in.
For every unit of electricity a heat pump uses, it can produce three to four units of heat. That makes it significantly more efficient than a traditional gas or oil boiler. It also means lower carbon emissions, which is why the UK Government supports heat pump installations through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
CPSL Kent has been supporting homes and properties since 2017 and can help you understand whether a heat pump is a practical option for your home.
Up to 300–400% Efficiency
For every 1kW of electricity used, a heat pump can produce 3–4kW of heat. That is three to four times more efficient than a gas boiler.
Lower Carbon Emissions
Heat pumps produce significantly less carbon than fossil fuel systems, helping to reduce your home's environmental impact.
Grant Support Available
Eligible installations may qualify for up to £7,500 through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, subject to survey and scheme rules.
Types of Heat Pump
There are several types of heat pump, and the best choice depends on your property, your heating system and what you want to achieve. Here is a straightforward guide.
Air Source Heat Pumps
Take heat from the outside air to warm your home through radiators, underfloor heating and a hot water cylinder. The most common type for UK homes.
Learn more arrow_forwardAir-to-Water Heat Pumps
The most common type for replacing a traditional wet central heating system. Heats water that flows to your radiators and hot water cylinder.
Learn more arrow_forwardAir-to-Air Heat Pumps
Heat and cool air directly in the room, similar to modern air conditioning. Excellent for bedrooms, loft rooms, home offices and garden rooms.
Learn more arrow_forwardGround Source Heat Pumps
Collect heat from the ground through buried pipework or boreholes. Usually more involved to install but offer very consistent efficiency year-round. Best suited to larger properties with available land.
A Note on Hybrid Systems
Hybrid heat pump systems combine a heat pump with a gas boiler. While they can be useful in some situations, hybrid systems are not currently eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant. CPSL Kent can explain the options if you are considering this route.
Not every property is ready for a heat pump straight away. CPSL Kent will explain what is practical, what may need upgrading, and whether another heating or cooling option may be more suitable.
Who Are Heat Pumps For?
Homeowners
Whether you are replacing an ageing boiler or building an extension, a heat pump could be the right long-term heating solution for your home.
Landlords
Heat pumps can improve the energy rating of rental properties and may help meet future regulations. CPSL Kent can advise on practical options for landlords.
Small Businesses
Light commercial properties can benefit from efficient heating and cooling. We can assess suitability for offices, workshops and small commercial premises.
Common Questions About Heat Pumps
Do heat pumps work in cold weather?expand_more
Yes. Modern air source heat pumps are designed to work efficiently in UK winters and can extract heat from the air even when outdoor temperatures drop below freezing. Performance does reduce slightly in very cold weather, but these systems are specifically engineered for the British climate.
Will I need to replace my radiators?expand_more
Not necessarily. Heat pumps work best when the radiators or underfloor heating can warm the home using lower water temperatures. That sometimes means upgrading a few radiators so the system can work properly. CPSL Kent checks this during the survey and will tell you exactly what is needed.
Are heat pumps noisy?expand_more
Modern heat pumps are designed to be quiet. Most operate at noise levels similar to a fridge or a quiet conversation — typically around 40–45 decibels. Strategic placement away from bedroom windows helps ensure the unit does not cause any disturbance.
How much does a heat pump cost?expand_more
The cost varies depending on the type of system, the size of your property and any additional work needed. Eligible installations may qualify for up to £7,500 through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which is deducted from the total cost. CPSL Kent provides clear quotations after a survey so there are no surprises.
Do I need planning permission?expand_more
Most domestic air source heat pumps fall under permitted development and do not require planning permission, provided they meet certain conditions such as noise limits and positioning. CPSL Kent will check this as part of the survey process.
Related Services
Heat Pump Surveys
Check whether your property is suitable for a heat pump.
Grants & Eligibility
Find out about the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and how to check eligibility.
Radiator Upgrades
Ensure your radiators work well with a heat pump system.
Hot Water Cylinders
The right cylinder is essential for a heat pump to deliver reliable hot water.
Interested in a Heat Pump for Your Kent Home?
CPSL Kent can help you understand your options, check suitability and guide you through the process from survey to installation.