Do heat pumps work in older or poorly insulated properties?
Yes. Heat pumps can work extremely well in older homes, including traditional stone buildings, cottages, Victorian houses, and period properties. What matters is not the age of the property, but the heat demand and the overall design of the system.
Modern heat pumps are far more advanced than the early generations, and with the right design, they can heat older properties comfortably and efficiently.
What needs to be considered?
1. Insulation and air tightness
Older homes vary hugely. Some are well insulated, others need improvements. Better insulation does mean the heat pump will run more efficiently and cost less to operate. But a heat pump can work in an older home even without perfect insulation, as long as the system is sized correctly.
2. Radiators and emitters
Heat pumps use lower temperatures than oil or gas boilers. This often means: • keeping your existing radiators if they are already well sized • upgrading a few radiators to larger, more efficient ones • or benefiting from underfloor heating if you plan refurbishment
This is normal, and part of creating a comfortable, stable heating system.
3. Heat loss calculation
A proper heat loss survey is essential. It tells us: • the exact heating requirement of each room • the right size and output of the heat pump • whether any radiator changes are needed
This is what ensures comfort and efficiency in older buildings.
Do heat pumps work in stone or granite houses?
Absolutely. In fact, many of the best-performing heat pump systems in Europe are installed in older, thick-walled masonry buildings. Their thermal mass helps maintain stable indoor temperatures once warmed.
Can a heat pump replace my oil or gas boiler?
Yes. • Heat pumps can fully replace your existing boiler. • They can provide heating and hot water all year. • They eliminate emissions and remove the need for fuel storage and flues.
The advantage of pairing an older home with solar PV
When combined with solar, a heat pump can dramatically reduce running costs, turning the home into a highly efficient, low-carbon system, even if the building is 50, 100, or 200 years old.
Solar produces clean electricity, and the heat pump multiplies it into several units of heat. This allows older homes to move closer to energy independence, without relying on combustion.
The bottom line
Heat pumps do work in older properties, but the key is professional design. With the right survey, the right sizing, and the right heat pump they deliver exceptional comfort, low running costs, and a clear path away from fossil fuels.
