Can you get a heat pump for a flat? Yes, absolutely.
In fact flats are often particularly suitable for heat pumps, due to their high levels of insulation. Unfortunately, there are obstacles too.
Namely, red tape.
Pros of installing a heat pump in a flat
Pro #1: Low heat loss
Heat pumps are not ideal for every property. Some properties will need adapting (I’ve written a longish piece about that here). The main problem is heat loss.
In big old houses, more heat is lost than can be efficiently replaced by heat pumps. Some old detached houses lose over 20kW. However modern post-1980s flats usually range from 2.1kW to 2.5kW. This is easily covered by a small heat pump, rated 4kW to 6kW.
Pro #2: Low Cost
Right now, you can get a (frankly enormous) government grant for Air Source Heat Pumps. £7,500 under the boiler replacement scheme.
However, in most heat pump installations, this does not cover the whole cost. Most houses might need a bigger heat pump, more labour, pipe alterations, etc. In a flat, you will likely avoid these costs.
This means you may be able to get a heat pump installed for under £2000. I.e. comparable to a new gas boiler.
Cons of installing a heat pump in a flat
Con #1: The Freeholder & Neighbours
Most flats will be leasehold, and – although you don’t need planning permission for a heat pump – you will need the freeholder’s permission.
This might be fine. But people do like to say ‘no’, don’t they?
From reading the forums, one common objection is from neighbours, specifically around noise. Heat pumps are not very noisy. But it’s a persistent myth, and may be enough to kill your heat pump dream.
Con #2: Space
Heat pumps need some outdoor space. Specifically, around 1m2, so most balconies would have easily enough space. Then again, it’s a compromise to surrender any of that precious space.
Perhaps a bigger issue is the hot water tank. Like old boilers, heat pumps need a tank, and lots of properties don’t have them, or the space to house one.
An alternative? Air-to-air heat pumps.
So far we’ve been talking about air-to-water heat pumps. These replace the boiler, and plumb into your existing heating system.
One alternative which might work in flats are air-to-air heat pumps. These are basically air con units which can heat the home as well. They’re very efficient, and you get the benefit of cooling in summer too.
Some air-to-air heat pumps, like this one from electriQ, don’t even need an outdoor unit. So this may be a good way to sidestep the red tape.
Air-to-air heat pumps are cheaper, but unfortunately you won’t get the £7.5k grant. You’re looking at £2k-£4k for a whole flat, including installation.
