What is the EPC Rating of an Air Source Heat Pump?

As energy efficiency becomes more important in homes and buildings, many people are now asking one key question: What is the EPC rating of an air source heat pump? Whether you’re planning to install a new heating system or want to understand how heat pumps affect your home’s energy performance, this guide will help you make sense of it all.

Let’s explore how air source heat pumps work, what an EPC rating is, how the two are connected, and why installing an air source heat pump Grant could be one of the best decisions for your home.

What is an EPC Rating?

EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate. It is a document that shows how energy-efficient a building is. The rating is shown on a scale from A to G, where:

A means the property is very energy efficient.
G means it is not energy efficient.

This rating also includes suggestions on how to improve energy use. In most cases, homes with better EPC ratings are warmer, cheaper to run, and more attractive to buyers or renters.

EPC ratings are required if you are:

Selling a home
Renting out a property
Building a new house

An EPC is valid for 10 years and is based on factors like heating systems, insulation, windows, and lighting.

How Does an Air Source Heat Pump Work?

An air source heat pump (ASHP) is a renewable heating system. It works by taking heat from the air outside—even when it’s cold—and transferring it into your home.

Here’s a simple explanation:

The system absorbs heat from outside air.
This heat passes through a compressor and becomes warmer.
The heated air is then used to warm water or air inside your home.

ASHPs use electricity, but they produce more energy than they consume. For example, for every 1 unit of electricity used, the system can generate 3 or more units of heat. This makes them highly efficient.

The air source heat pump Grant models are known for their reliability, energy efficiency, and long-term cost savings. They are built for UK climates and often improve your home’s EPC rating.

How is an EPC Rating Calculated?

The EPC rating of a home depends on how much energy it uses and how much carbon dioxide it emits. To calculate the rating, energy assessors look at:

Type of heating system
Quality of insulation
Age of the property
Type of windows (double-glazed or single)
Hot water system
Renewable energy systems, like solar panels or heat pumps

Each of these elements contributes to how efficient your home is. The more efficient the home, the lower the energy bills and the better the EPC rating.

How Does an Air Source Heat Pump Affect EPC Rating?

Adding an air source heat pump to your home can raise your EPC rating. That’s because it:

Reduces the use of gas or oil heating
Lowers carbon emissions
Uses renewable energy (air)
Works efficiently even at low temperatures

In most homes, switching to a heat pump from an old gas or oil boiler can increase the EPC score by one or two bands. For example, a property rated D might go up to C or even B after installing a heat pump.

An improved EPC not only saves energy but also adds value to the home. Buyers today are looking for energy-efficient homes to save on future bills and comply with green living standards.

How Efficient are Air Source Heat Pumps?

The efficiency of an air source heat pump is shown using something called COP (Coefficient of Performance). This shows how much heat the pump creates for each unit of electricity it uses.

A COP of 3 means the system produces 3 kW of heat for every 1 kW of electricity.
Many air source heat pump Grant models have COP ratings between 3.5 and 4.5.

This high efficiency is the reason why EPC ratings improve after a heat pump is installed.

Real-Life Example: EPC Improvement with a Heat Pump

Let’s say you live in a three-bedroom house with an old gas boiler. Your current EPC rating is a D. You decide to install a Grant air source heat pump.

After installation, your heating system becomes much more efficient. The energy used to heat your home is lower, and carbon emissions drop.

Your EPC assessment now shows a rating of C. Not only have you improved the energy use, but you’ve also increased your home’s value and appeal.

Financial Incentives and EPC Requirements

In the UK, government programs are encouraging people to switch to heat pumps. These programs sometimes require you to have a certain EPC rating or to make improvements based on EPC recommendations before claiming financial help.

For example:

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) offers grants for installing heat pumps. To qualify, you may need an EPC without outstanding insulation recommendations.
Landlords are expected to meet minimum EPC ratings in rental properties. A heat pump can help them reach this target.

A Grant air source heat pump can be an ideal solution if you want to qualify for such schemes.

Environmental Benefits of a Heat Pump

Beyond the EPC score, heat pumps also help the planet.

Here’s how:

Reduce CO₂ emissions
Lower fossil fuel use
Reduce energy bills
Improve indoor air quality

With the UK moving toward net-zero carbon by 2050, heat pumps are part of the long-term solution for eco-friendly living. EPC ratings reflect this shift toward sustainable energy choices.

Do All Air Source Heat Pumps Improve EPC Ratings?

Not all heat pumps are the same. The improvement in your EPC rating depends on:

The model and efficiency of the heat pump
How well your home is insulated
Your previous heating system
The size of your home

Installing a high-performance model like the air source heat pump Grant can make a big difference. These systems are designed for UK homes and have proven results in improving energy ratings.

Important Installation Tips

If you’re thinking of getting an air source heat pump, here are a few things to consider for best EPC results:

Insulate first: Ensure your walls and roof are well-insulated before installing the heat pump.
Choose the right size: A pump that’s too small or too large can lower efficiency.
Hire certified installers: A certified installer will fit the system correctly, improving performance and EPC outcomes.
Combine with smart controls: This makes it easier to manage energy use and improve comfort.
Choose a trusted brand: The Grant air source heat pump series is one of the most reliable and effective in the market.

Common Questions About EPC and Heat Pumps

How long does it take for an EPC rating to improve after a heat pump is installed?

The change is usually seen right after your EPC is updated. You’ll need to order a new EPC once the installation is complete.

Is it worth getting a new EPC after installing a heat pump?

Yes. A better EPC helps you sell or rent your home more easily. It may also unlock government funding or tax benefits.

Do I need to upgrade insulation to install a heat pump?

In many cases, yes. Poor insulation can reduce the effectiveness of a heat pump. Most government grants also require proper insulation first.

Are Grant air source heat pumps MCS certified?

Yes, Grant air source heat pumps are MCS-certified, meaning they meet the required standards for energy efficiency and safety.

Final Thoughts

So, what is the EPC rating of an air source heat pump? While the pump itself doesn’t have an EPC rating, installing one can greatly improve your home’s EPC score. These systems are energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and can save you money over time.

By choosing a Grant air source heat pump, you’re not only upgrading your heating system—you’re also improving the overall value and energy performance of your home.

If you’re planning a renovation or looking to reduce your carbon footprint, now is the perfect time to make the switch. Understanding the air source heat pump running cost is also key to making an informed decision. EPC improvements, energy savings, and green living are all within reach—with the right heat pump.