To help you, we’ve created this guide with key questions to ask your heat pump installer. These will not only help you evaluate their expertise but also give you a clearer picture of what to expect during your heat pump installation.
Getting a heat pump installed can feel overwhelming. With so many options and technical jargon to understand, it’s easy to feel lost and confused. Because there’s such a wide variation in the quality of heat pump installers, doing your homework is essential.
However, once you find a knowledgeable and reliable installer, the process becomes much smoother. You should be able to trust their expertise and professionalism while still keeping an eye on key factors to ensure the installation is done correctly.
What are Different Types of Heat Pump Installers?
There are generally two types of companies you’ll encounter:
- Sales-Driven Companies: These businesses often employ salespeople rather than technical engineers. Their primary focus is on making a sale, which can result in subpar system design.
- Engineer-Led Companies: These are usually smaller businesses led by technical experts who focus on designing systems for maximum efficiency.
A skilled installer won’t just try to sell you a system – they’ll consult with you on how to optimize your home’s energy efficiency and tailor the system to your specific needs.
Here Are The Key Questions to Ask Your Heat Pump Installer
1. What Is Your Background as a Heat Pump Installer?
Start by asking the person quoting your system about their background. Were they a heating engineer before they started installing heat pumps? How long have they been in the industry?
A strong technical background is crucial for proper system design and installation. Someone who was a plumber or heating engineer is more likely to understand the intricacies of heat loss, system sizing, and efficiency optimization compared to someone with a purely sales-based role.
Additionally, ask how long the company has been in business. Longevity in the industry often indicates reliability and good customer service. Companies accredited by MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) and backed by HIES Consumer Code are always preferable, as they follow high standards of quality and customer protection.
2. What System Temperature Are You Designing For?
The system design temperature—essentially the flow temperature of the heating water on a very cold day—has a massive impact on efficiency. Lower system temperatures are more energy-efficient, but achieving them often requires upgrading radiators or insulation.
If the installer doesn’t bring up system temperatures, that’s a red flag. They may be aiming for an easy, cheap installation rather than optimizing efficiency.
Another question to ask is whether they’ve calculated the SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance) of the system. A higher SCOP means the system is more efficient. For example:
- SCOP of 3: 1 unit of electricity produces 3 units of heat.
- SCOP of 5: 1 unit of electricity produces 5 units of heat.
A good installer will discuss these factors with you and explain how they’ve been accounted for in your quote.
3. Do You Recommend High-Temperature or Hybrid Systems?
A skilled installer will always try to design a fully heat pump-based system first, as this is the most efficient option.
Hybrid systems (which combine a heat pump with a boiler) or high-temperature heat pumps should only be recommended as a last resort—for example, if your home has very poor insulation or specific limitations.
If an installer immediately suggests a hybrid system or a high-temperature heat pump without discussing alternatives like upgrading insulation or radiators, they may be prioritizing a quick sale over long-term efficiency so please be aware of this!
4. Have You Conducted a Detailed Heat Loss Survey?
An accurate heat loss survey is the cornerstone of any well-designed heat pump system. Without one, it’s impossible to correctly size your heat pump or ensure it will work efficiently.
A proper heat loss survey should include:
- Measurements of every window, wall, and door.
- An assessment of loft and cavity wall insulation.
- A detailed review of your property’s existing heating system, including radiator sizes.
This process typically takes 1–2 hours on-site and is essential for determining your home’s heating needs. If your installer hasn’t performed a detailed heat loss survey, it’s a major red flag.
5. What Size Heat Pump Are You Quoting For?
Oversized heat pumps are a common issue, often resulting from outdated boiler sizing practices. Bigger isn’t always better-especially for heat pumps.
On average, UK homes only requires a 6–8kW heat pump. Oversizing leads to inefficiencies, increased cycling (turning on and off frequently), and higher running costs. This makes the initial design process crucial.
If your installer hasn’t carefully calculated the required heat load for your property, or if they’re quoting a system significantly larger than necessary, it’s worth questioning their approach.
Why Choose Transcrew?
At Transcrew we’re proud to be an MCS-accredited installer backed by the HIES Consumer Code. We follow strict guidelines to ensure every heat pump system we design and install is efficient, reliable, and tailored to your home.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Detailed Heat Loss Surveys and System Design: We measure every aspect of your property to ensure accurate system sizing for your heat pump and cylinder. More information about heat loss surveys and system designs can be found by clicking here.
- Customer-Focused System Design: Our systems are designed to achieve the lowest possible running costs and the highest efficiency. Our team will assess everything in full detail and not cut corners.
- Transparency: Our team will explain every step of the process to ensure a smooth installation process.
Conclusion
Investing in an air source heat pump is a big decision and asking the right questions is key to ensuring you get the best value for your money. By focusing on installer expertise, system design, and proper heat loss calculations, you’ll avoid common downfalls and enjoy an energy-efficient heating system that lasts for years.
Are you ready to make the switch? Contact Transcrew Heating & Cooling Technologies Ltd and we will be more than happy to assist with your enquiry.
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