Best Heat Pumps UK 2026 - Top 5 Models Reviewed
We've independently reviewed every major air source heat pump available in the UK. These are our top picks for 2026 — ranked by efficiency, reliability, noise, and real-world performance in British conditions.
Quick picks
The quietest premium brand available, Quiet Mark certified. R290 propane refrigerant delivers high flow temperatures (up to 75°C) meaning fewer radiator upgrades in older homes.
The UK's most installed brand. Largest installer network means competitive quotes and fast servicing. Ecodan HyperCore operates down to -28°C — the best cold-weather spec in class.
The Altherma 3H HT variant delivers 70°C flow temperature — matching gas boiler outputs — so existing radiators rarely need replacing. Ideal for Victorian and Edwardian properties.
Typically £1,000–2,000 cheaper than Vaillant or Mitsubishi. SmartThings app integration. Quiet Mark certification on the HT Quiet model. Strong choice for tech-savvy buyers on a budget.
Aquarea L-Series is one of the smallest air source units available — ideal for properties with restricted outdoor space. Excellent smart controls and underfloor heating compatibility.
Best heat pump for each use case
| Use case | Best model | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Vaillant aroTHERM plus | Quietest, R290, high flow temp |
| Best reliability | Mitsubishi Ecodan | Largest UK installer base |
| Best for old homes | Daikin Altherma 3H HT | 70°C flow, fewer radiator upgrades |
| Best value | Samsung EHS Mono HT Quiet | £1–2k cheaper, Quiet Mark certified |
| Best for cold weather | Mitsubishi Ecodan HyperCore | Operates to -28°C |
| Best compact unit | Panasonic Aquarea L-Series | Small footprint, tight spaces |
| Best R290 model | Vaillant aroTHERM plus | GWP of 3 vs 675 for R32 |
What to look for in a heat pump: 5 key factors
1. SCOP (efficiency)
The Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) measures how much heat a pump produces per unit of electricity over a full UK heating season. A SCOP of 4.0 means 4 kWh of heat per 1 kWh of electricity. Higher SCOP = lower running costs. For UK conditions, look for SCOP 3.5 minimum; the best models achieve 4.5–5.0.
2. R290 vs R32 refrigerant
R290 (propane) is the next-generation refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of just 3, compared to 675 for R32. R290 also enables higher flow temperatures (75–80°C) without efficiency loss, making it better for older homes. The Vaillant aroTHERM plus is currently the primary R290 option widely available in the UK. R32 models still perform excellently — refrigerant is one factor among several.
3. Flow temperature and radiator compatibility
Standard heat pumps operate at 45–55°C flow temperature, which means most older radiators need upsizing for optimal efficiency. High temperature models (Daikin Altherma 3H HT, Vaillant aroTHERM plus at 75°C) can run at gas-boiler-equivalent temperatures, avoiding costly radiator replacements in period properties. Confirm the flow temperature spec before choosing.
4. Noise level
Modern heat pumps produce 38–55 dB(A) at 1 metre from the outdoor unit. Permitted development rules require sound levels not to exceed 37 dB(A) at the nearest neighbouring window (MCS 020 standard). An experienced installer will carry out a noise calculation before installation. Full noise and planning guide →
5. Installer network
The brand matters less than the installer. A mid-range heat pump installed correctly will outperform a premium unit installed badly. That said, Mitsubishi and Vaillant have the largest dedicated UK installer networks, which typically means more competitive quotes, better technical support, and faster servicing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best heat pump for a UK home in 2026?
For most UK homes, the Vaillant aroTHERM plus is the best air source heat pump in 2026. It uses R290 propane refrigerant (GWP of 3), achieves a SCOP of up to 5.03, and is Quiet Mark certified at 37–43 dB. Its high flow temperature (up to 75°C) means fewer radiator upgrades in older properties. The Mitsubishi Ecodan is the best choice if you prioritise installer network coverage and cold-weather reliability.
Is it better to get an R290 or R32 heat pump?
R290 (propane) is the more environmentally friendly refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of just 3, compared to 675 for R32. R290 also allows higher flow temperatures (up to 75–80°C), which is beneficial for older homes with existing radiators. The Vaillant aroTHERM plus is the leading R290 model in the UK. R32 models (Mitsubishi, Daikin, Samsung) still perform excellently — the refrigerant type is one of several factors to weigh.
How much does the best heat pump cost after the BUS grant?
After the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grant, top-rated heat pumps cost between £3,500 and £9,500 fully installed, depending on model and property size. A Mitsubishi Ecodan for a 3-bed semi typically costs £4,000–6,500 after the grant. A Vaillant aroTHERM plus for the same property is typically £4,500–7,000 after grant. Larger or more complex installations cost more.
Which heat pump brand has the largest UK installer network?
Mitsubishi Electric has the largest dedicated heat pump installer network in the UK, with thousands of Mitsubishi-trained engineers nationally. This typically means more competitive quotes, faster installation slots, and easier servicing. Vaillant and Daikin also have strong UK networks. Samsung's network is growing but smaller than the Japanese brands.
What SCOP rating should I look for in a UK heat pump?
For UK conditions, look for a Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) of 3.5 or above. The best models achieve SCOP 4.5–5.03. A SCOP of 4.0 means you get 4 kWh of heat for every 1 kWh of electricity consumed. Higher SCOP directly reduces running costs. The top SCOP rating in the UK market is currently held by the Vaillant aroTHERM plus at 5.03 and the Daikin Altherma 3 at 4.6.
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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.