Are heat pumps really too expensive
to install and run?
One of the biggest worries Norfolk homeowners have about Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) is cost. You may have heard people say they’re too expensive to install or that they’ll push up your electricity bills. In this post, we’ll separate the myths from the facts and look at what costs really mean here in Norfolk.
Find out more with our myth busting blog…
Myth 1: “Heat pumps are too expensive to install” 💸
Reality: Yes, a heat pump is more expensive upfront than a gas boiler. But with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you can get up to £7,500 off the cost of installation. That immediately makes a big difference.
Myth 2: “Electricity costs mean heat pumps are more expensive to run” ⚡
Reality: A well-designed heat pump doesn’t use electricity in the same way as direct electric heating. Instead, it multiplies the energy: for every 1kWh of electricity, it can deliver 3–4kWh of heat. This is known as the Coefficient of Performance (COP).
That means even with electricity prices higher than gas, heat pumps can still work out cheaper overall — especially if you’re coming off oil, LPG or old storage heaters. Many Norfolk households already see savings of 20–40% compared to oil.
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Myth 3: “Maintenance is costly” 🔧
Reality: Heat pumps need an annual service, much like a gas boiler. The cost is similar – often less than an oil boiler service – and the lifespan of the system can be longer, giving you more value over time.
When you compare it to replacing an oil or LPG system – common in rural Norfolk – the long-term value of a heat pump often outweighs the higher initial spend. Factor in lower maintenance, longer lifespan, and stable running costs, and heat pumps start to look like the smarter investment.
Why this matters in Norfolk
Norfolk has some of the highest numbers of off-gas homes in the UK, with many families still reliant on oil deliveries. Oil prices can fluctuate wildly, leaving households vulnerable. A heat pump, paired with good insulation and even solar panels, can help stabilise costs and provide peace of mind.
With government grants available and local installers offering tailored advice, heat pumps are more accessible than ever for Norfolk homeowners.
