Air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners across the UK looking for low-carbon, energy-efficient heating. However, a lot of myths and misconceptions still surround them — particularly in towns like Stockport, and across Greater Manchester, where interest is growing rapidly as people seek greener alternatives to traditional gas boilers.
In this article, we’ll separate fact from fiction, helping you make an informed decision if you’re considering an air source heat pump installation.
Myth 1: Air Source Heat Pumps Don’t Work in Cold Weather
The myth: People assume that once temperatures drop near or below freezing, heat pumps stop working effectively.
The reality: Modern ASHPs are designed to work efficiently even in very low temperatures (as low as −15 °C). While their efficiency does drop slightly as the weather gets colder, in the UK climate — including winter in Greater Manchester — this isn’t enough to stop them being a practical, reliable option.
Myth 2: Heat Pumps Are Noisy
The myth: The outdoor unit will be loud and disturb neighbours.
The reality: Newer air source heat pumps are surprisingly quiet — often no louder than a standard kitchen fridge. Careful installation and correct siting of the unit, such as in a garden area away from windows, ensures minimal disturbance. In urban areas like Stockport, proper positioning makes all the difference.
Myth 3: They’re Too Expensive to Install
The myth: The upfront cost makes ASHPs unaffordable.
The reality: While installation costs are higher than gas boilers, government support schemes such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can significantly reduce the expense. When combined with long-term energy savings, heat pumps can prove to be cost-effective, particularly for well-insulated homes in Greater Manchester.
Myth 4: Running Costs Are Higher Than Gas
The myth: Because heat pumps run on electricity, they must be more expensive than gas boilers.
The reality: Air source heat pumps are highly efficient, often producing three or more units of heat for every unit of electricity they consume (a coefficient of performance, or COP, of 3+). While electricity is more expensive than gas per unit, this efficiency helps offset costs. Pairing a heat pump with renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, can further reduce bills for households in Stockport and beyond.
Myth 5: You’ll Need Huge Radiators or Major Renovations
The myth: Installing an ASHP means ripping out your radiators or making big structural changes.
The reality: While some radiators may need upgrading to handle lower water flow temperatures, many homes can adapt existing systems. Underfloor heating works particularly well, but it’s not essential. The most important factor is good insulation, which is a wise investment for any home in Greater Manchester.
Myth 6: They Require a Lot of Maintenance
The myth: Heat pumps are complex and prone to breakdowns.
The reality: In fact, air source heat pumps often need less maintenance than a gas boiler. A simple annual service and basic upkeep, like cleaning filters, is usually enough. With proper care, ASHPs can last 20+ years.
Myth 7: You Need Planning Permission
The myth: Local councils will block installation.
The reality: Most air source heat pump installations in Stockport and across Greater Manchester fall under “permitted development rights.” Unless your home is in a listed building, conservation area, or subject to special rules, you likely won’t need planning permission.
Why These Myths Persist
- Poor installations: Inexperienced installers may incorrectly size systems, leading to poor performance.
- Gas vs electricity costs: With gas historically cheaper in the UK, the comparison often overlooks the efficiency benefits of ASHPs.
- High upfront cost visibility: People see the initial investment without factoring in long-term savings and available grants.
The Truth About Heat Pumps in Stockport & Greater Manchester
Air source heat pumps aren’t a silver bullet, but when installed correctly and in a well-insulated property, they are a future-proof, eco-friendly, and cost-effective heating solution. For homeowners in Stockport and the wider Greater Manchester area, switching to an ASHP can help cut carbon emissions, reduce heating bills, and prepare for a greener energy future.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) Grant
Solarus can help homeowners in Stockport and Greater Manchester claim the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) Grant, making air source heat pumps even more affordable. This government-backed grant helps reduce the upfront cost of low-carbon heating systems.
For a free quote, contact us at hello@solarus.co.uk or call 0161 674 0390. Our expert team will guide you through the process and ensure your installation is efficient, compliant, and cost-effective.
Final Thoughts
Air source heat pumps are not the noisy, expensive, impractical systems some myths suggest. Instead, they’re a proven technology already helping thousands of UK households transition to low-carbon heating. If you’re based in Stockport or elsewhere in Greater Manchester, now is the perfect time to explore whether a heat pump could be right for your home.