Stiebel Eltron vs Ideal Heating - Which Heat Pump Is Better for UK Homes?
Independent head-to-head comparison. Updated April 2026.
Score breakdown
8.8
Efficiency (SCOP)
7.5
8.7
Reliability
7.8
7.5
Installation
9
7.8
After-sales support
8.8
7.5
Value for money
8.5
2
categories won by Stiebel Eltron
vs
3
categories won by Ideal Heating
Stiebel Eltron - installed price (post-grant)
£5,000 - £10,500
After £7,500 BUS grant. Premium specification.
BUS Grant: £7,500Ideal Heating - installed price (post-grant)
£3,500 - £7,000
After £7,500 BUS grant. Among the lowest installed cost.
BUS Grant: £7,500Which wins for...
Maximum efficiency
SE
Stiebel Eltron
Higher SCOP rating (8.8/10)
Best value for money
IH
Ideal Heating
Better value score (8.5/10) and typically lower installed cost
Long-term reliability
SE
Stiebel Eltron
Higher reliability score (8.7/10)
Easiest installation
IH
Ideal Heating
Better installer compatibility score (9/10)
After-sales support
IH
Ideal Heating
Stronger UK support network (8.8/10)
SE
Our verdict
Stiebel Eltron wins overall
Stiebel Eltron scores 8.4/10 overall - higher than Ideal Heating (7.6/10). However, the best choice depends on your specific priorities. Ideal Heating may be a better fit if you prioritise value for money.
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Important disclaimer
www.heatpumpcompared.co.uk is editorially independent and not affiliated with any heat pump manufacturer or installer. We do not provide heating advice. Prices, specifications, SCOP ratings and grant amounts are correct as of April 2026 but are subject to change. Always commission a professional heat loss survey before purchasing a heat pump system.