Choosing the best heat pump for your home isn't just a case of finding the most efficient model, or even the most powerful. The right heat pump for you will depend on your property's size, insulation, existing heating system, and, of course, your budget. With a growing range of air source heat pumps available in the UK, knowing which one to choose can be challenging.
The best air source heat pumps can provide efficient, low-carbon heating and hot water, potentially reducing your energy bills compared with traditional gas or oil boilers. However, performance varies between models, and getting the right size and installation is just as important as choosing the manufacturer.
We've compared 10 of the best air source heat pumps available in the UK in 2026, including models from Vaillant, Mitsubishi Electric, Daikin, Samsung and Octopus Energy. We've examined their efficiency, heating output, features, warranties and suitability for different types of homes to help you narrow down your options.
Whether you're looking for a heat pump for a larger property, a quieter model for a residential area or a system that works with smart electricity tariffs, our guide explains which heat pumps are worth considering and what to look for before getting a quote.
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The best air source heat pumps at a glance
Heat pump | Best for | Where to buy or get a quote |
All-round performance | Available through Vaillant and MCS-certified installers | |
Established heat pump range | Available through Mitsubishi Electric and many MCS-certified installers | |
Larger homes | Daikin-approved and MCS-certified installers | |
National installer availability | Octopus Energy heat pumps may include Grant Aerona, subject to survey | |
Octopus customers and smart tariffs | Octopus Energy | |
Familiar UK heating brand | Worcester Bosch installers and MCS-certified installers | |
Quiet operation | Samsung-approved and MCS-certified installers | |
Premium cold-weather performance | NIBE-approved and MCS-certified installers | |
UK heating-brand option | EDF Heat Pumps says it typically installs Ideal heat pumps | |
Integrated install-and-support package | Aira sells and installs its own system |
What specs matter when comparing heat pumps?
- Output size: A bigger heat pump isn’t automatically better. Oversizing can make a system cycle on and off more often, which may reduce efficiency and comfort. The installer should calculate your home’s heat loss before recommending a size.
- SCOP: This stands for seasonal coefficient of performance. It estimates how efficiently a heat pump works over a heating season. A higher SCOP is better, but real-world performance depends on the home and installation. A SCOP of 4, for example, means it delivers an average of 4kWh of heat for every 1kWh of electricity used. We've used manufacturers' figures at a 35C flow temperature where available to make comparisons more consistent.
- Flow temperature: The temperature of the water sent around your radiators or underfloor heating. Heat pumps are usually most efficient at lower flow temperatures, but some homes may need higher-temperature models or larger radiators.
- Refrigerant: Many newer heat pumps use R290 refrigerant, which has a much lower global warming potential than some older refrigerants. It’s increasingly common in new high-performance air source heat pumps.
- Noise: Modern heat pumps are designed to be relatively quiet, but siting matters. Avoid placing the outdoor unit too close to bedroom windows, neighbouring properties or narrow spaces where sound can echo.
- Warranty: Check exactly what the warranty covers and whether it depends on using an approved installer, registering the product or having the system serviced annually.
Vaillant aroTHERM plus heat pump
Best: heat pump overall
Why we love it
- Wide choice of heating outputs
- High flow temperature capability
- Established UK installer network
Take note
- Likely to be a premium-priced option
- Extended warranty depends on installation and equipment conditions
The Vaillant aroTHERM plus heat pump combines a broad range of heating outputs with modern R290 refrigerant and high-temperature capability, making it one of the most versatile options in this guide.
Designed to provide both central heating and domestic hot water, it works with Vaillant's cylinders and heating controls to create a complete system. Selected models also have credentials for quiet operation, which may appeal to homeowners with limited outdoor space.
One of its biggest advantages, though, is installer familiarity. Vaillant has a long-established presence in the UK heating market, making the aroTHERM plus a sensible starting point for homeowners gathering quotes.
The manufacturer's warranty can extend to seven years, although this depends on using an eligible installer, registering the system and meeting equipment requirements, including those relating to the hot water cylinder.
Who is the Vaillant aroTHERM plus heat pump best for?
The Vaillant aroTHERM plus heat pump is a particularly strong option if you want a well-established heating manufacturer, a choice of system sizes and flexibility for a retrofit project. It makes a good all-round benchmark against which to compare other heat pump quotes.
Key specifications
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Mitsubishi electric Ecodan R290 heat pump
Best: for an established heat pump range
Why we love it
- Long-established UK heat pump range
- High flow temperature capability
- MELCloud app compatibility
Take note
- Specifications differ between Ecodan models
- Warranty length depends on the installer's accreditation
Mitsubishi’s electric Ecodan R290 heat pump is one of the most established heat pump families in the UK, and its R290 models bring refrigerant technology and high-temperature performance to the range.
They deliver water temperatures up to 75C, making these models worth considering for properties replacing conventional boilers, although running at lower temperatures will generally improve efficiency.
The range also supports MELCloud controls, enabling homeowners to manage their heating remotely. With several heating outputs and an established installer network, you have flexibility.
Warranty cover is another consideration. Mitsubishi offers different warranty periods depending on the accreditation of the installer and registration requirements, so you should establish the exact cover included in your quotation.
The main challenge is knowing precisely which Ecodan you're being offered. The name covers multiple generations and configurations, so make sure you compare the specifications of the particular model on your quote.
Who is the Mitsubishi electric ecodan R290 heat pump best for?
Homeowners who value an established manufacturer and want modern high-temperature capability should shortlist the ecodan R290. It's particularly worth comparing with Vaillant and Daikin for retrofit installations.
Key specifications
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Daikin Altherma 3 M 16kW heat pump
Best: for larger homes
Why we love it
- High heating output for larger properties
- Integrated monobloc design
- Part of an established heat pump family
Take note
- 16kW output will be excessive for many homes
- Extended warranty cover is subject to registration or additional payment
The Daikin Altherma 3 M 16kW heat pump is the highest-output model in the Altherma 3 M family, making it a great option for larger properties or homes with greater heating demands.
Its monobloc design houses the refrigerant components in the outdoor unit, while the system can provide central heating and, with the appropriate components, domestic hot water.
With a maximum flow temperature of 60C, it's designed for use with appropriately sized radiators and underfloor heating systems. Its published SCOP of 4.62 at a 35C flow temperature also suggests strong seasonal efficiency under standardised test conditions, although real-world performance will depend on the property and installation.
However, a 16kW heat pump isn't automatically better than a smaller model. If it's oversized for the home's actual heat loss, it could operate less efficiently and cost more than necessary to run.
Daikin's warranty starts at two years, with longer coverage available through eligible extensions. Homeowners should check the registration conditions and whether any additional payment is required.
Who is the Daikin Altherma 3 M 16kW heat pump best for?
The Daikin Altherma 3 M 16kW is best suited to larger homes with relatively high heating requirements, rather than a typical small or medium-sized property.
It may be worth considering for a substantial detached home or a property with greater heat loss, but the final system size should always be determined by a professional heat-loss calculation. Daikin also offers smaller Altherma models that may be more appropriate for most households.
Key specifications
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Grant Aerona 290 heat pump
Best: for national installer availability
Why we love it
- Modern R290 refrigerant
- National installation option through Octopus Energy
- Seven-year guarantee available
Take note
- Guarantee conditions depend on the installation route
- Compare the complete installation package, not just the unit
The Grant Aerona 290 heat pump combines updated heat pump technology with the experience of an established UK heating manufacturer, while its R290 refrigerant and range of heating outputs make it suitable for a range of property types.
With published SCOP figures of 4.56 to 5.08 at a 35C flow temperature, the range offers potentially efficient operation when correctly sized and installed.
One of its distinguishing features is availability. As well as being supplied through Grant-approved installers, the Aerona range may feature in Octopus Energy heat pump packages, giving homeowners the option of comparing local installation quotes against those from a national provider.
Grant offers a seven-year guarantee through eligible, trained G1 installers, but you should check the exact conditions before installation.
While it may not have the consumer brand recognition of Worcester Bosch or Samsung, Grant's background in heating makes the Aerona 290 a credible option.
Who is the Grant Aerona 290 heat pump best for?
The Aerona 290 is particularly appealing if you want to compare quotes from independent installers and a national supplier such as Octopus Energy. It also deserves consideration if a longer manufacturer-backed guarantee is a priority.
Key specifications
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Octopus Cosy heat pump
Best: for smart energy tariffs
Why we love it
- Integration with Octopus smart tariffs
- App-based heating controls
- Combined installation and aftercare package
Take note
- Available through a single provider
- Extended workmanship protection requires a paid plan
The Octopus Cosy heat pump takes a different approach from most of the products in this best heat pumps guide. Rather than being a standalone unit sold through multiple independent installers, it forms part of Octopus Energy's wider home heating package.
One of its major attractions is its direct connection to smart energy tariffs. Octopus offers a dedicated heat pump tariff designed to provide cheaper electricity during selected periods, potentially helping customers reduce running costs when heating is scheduled appropriately.
Cosy systems also offer app-based controls and software updates. Octopus Energy includes an eight-year product warranty, although it's important to distinguish this from the installation workmanship cover.
Standard workmanship protection lasts two years, with the option to extend it to eight years through a paid Cosy Care plan. Homeowners should factor any ongoing charges into the total cost of ownership.
The main trade-off is the closely integrated installation and energy-service model. That can simplify the buying process, but makes direct comparisons with other manufacturers less straightforward.
Who is the Octopus Cosy heat pump best for?
Octopus Cosy heat pump makes sense if you're already an Octopus customer or want to take advantage of smart electricity tariffs. It's also worth considering if you prefer dealing with one company for installation, controls and ongoing support.
Key specifications
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Worcester Bosch Compress 5800i AW heat pump
Best: for a familiar UK heating brand
Why we love it
- Familiar and established UK heating brand
- Designed for quiet operation
- Modern R290 refrigerant
Take note
- Boiler expertise doesn't necessarily equal heat pump expertise
- Guarantee conditions should be confirmed before installation
The Worcester Bosch Compress 5800i AW heat pump brings the company's longstanding UK heating reputation to an air source heat pump designed for both renovation and new-build projects.
Worcester Bosch describes it as its quietest heat pump, while its use of R290 refrigerant and high flow temperature capability make it a relevant option for homeowners who want to move away from conventional gas boilers.
Its SCOP figures of around 4.5 at a 35C flow temperature indicate potentially efficient seasonal operation under standardised conditions.
And the company's established UK installer network is another attraction, especially for homeowners who have previously owned a Worcester Bosch boiler.
However, boiler expertise and heat pump expertise aren't necessarily interchangeable. It's important to check an installer's heat pump credentials and experience with the Compress range, rather than relying on the manufacturer's wider reputation alone.
Worcester Bosch also advertises a seven-year guarantee for the range.
Who is the Worcester Bosch Compress 5800i AW heat pump best for?
The Worcester Bosch Compress 5800i AW is a sensible option if you're replacing a boiler and prefer a familiar heating brand. It's particularly worth comparing with Vaillant and Mitsubishi Electric if you want a modern R290 system with high-temperature capability.
Key specifications
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Samsung EHS Mono HT Quiet heat pump
Best: quiet heat pump
Why we love it
- Designed with low-noise operation in mind
- High-temperature capability
- Modern outdoor unit design
Take note
- Larger outputs won't suit every property
- UK warranty terms need checking with the installer
Samsung’s EHS Mono HT Quiet heat pump is designed for homeowners who need a high-temperature heat pump but are particularly concerned about the appearance and sound of the outdoor unit.
Samsung has focused on quiet operation and a contemporary design, helping to distinguish the EHS Mono HT Quiet from more conventional-looking heat pumps.
To minimise its noise, Samsung has used sound insulation and a specially designed fan to keep it running quietly. The heat pump has also earned Quiet Mark certification, making it worth considering for homes where the outdoor unit needs to be positioned close to living areas or neighbouring properties. However, actual noise levels will depend on where and how the unit is installed.
Its high-temperature capability may also make it a good option for properties replacing traditional boilers, while larger heating outputs give installers options for homes with greater heating demands.
However, quiet operation depends on more than the heat pump itself. Where the unit is installed, nearby surfaces and the quality of the system design will all influence how noticeable the noise is.
Samsung heat pumps can also qualify for an extended seven-year warranty when installed by an eligible Samsung-trained installer. However, homeowners should check the registration and servicing requirements, as well as whether the extended cover includes labour or parts only.
Who is the Samsung EHS Mono HT Quiet heat pump best for?
The Samsung EHS Mono HT Quiet is particularly well suited to homeowners replacing a gas boiler in an older property where the existing radiators need higher water temperatures. Its ability to deliver flow temperatures of up to 70C could help reduce the need for radiator upgrades, although this will depend on the home's heat loss and existing heating system.
It's also a good option for homes where outdoor space is limited or the heat pump needs to be installed close to neighbouring properties, thanks to its noise-reduction features. However, homeowners should still have an installer assess the proposed location and expected noise levels before choosing it.
Key specifications
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NIBE S2125 heat pump
Best: for cold-weather performance
Why we love it
- Designed for demanding cold-weather conditions
- Quiet Mark certification
- Integrated heating controls
Take note
- Likely to be a premium-priced option
- Extended warranty requires an eligible installer
Swedish manufacturer NIBE has a long history of developing heat pumps for colder climates, and the NIBE S2125 heat pump reflects that experience.
The company says the inverter-controlled S2125 can continue operating in outdoor temperatures as low as -25C, while Quiet Mark certification provides reassurance for homeowners concerned about outdoor noise.
It's designed to work with NIBE's indoor modules and controls, creating an integrated system for central heating and hot water.
Its published SCOP of 5.0 at a 35C flow temperature is also competitive, although the actual efficiency achieved will depend on the heating system and operating conditions.
Although UK winters are generally less severe than those in Scandinavia, reliable operation in cold conditions remains important. However, the minimum operating temperature alone isn't a measure of efficiency, so homeowners should consider seasonal performance and installation quotes rather than choosing on this specification alone.
NIBE's standard warranty is two years, but cover may extend to seven years through eligible NIBE Pro Partner installers, subject to the manufacturer's conditions.
Who is the NIBE S2125 heat pump best for?
The S2125 is worth shortlisting if you're looking at premium heat pump systems, particularly for a property in a colder or more exposed location. It provides a useful alternative to the more familiar UK heating brands, provided you have access to an experienced installer.
Key specifications
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Ideal Logic Air heat pump
Best: UK heating-brand alternative
Why we love it
- Established UK heating manufacturer
- Quiet Mark approval
- Installation options through EDF
Take note
- Less established reputation in heat pumps than some competitors
- Warranty terms and servicing requirements should be checked
The Ideal Logic Air heat pump brings another familiar name from the UK boiler market into the burgeoning heat pump sector.
Designed for domestic heating and hot water, the Logic Air offers features including Quiet Mark approval and compatibility with smart grid and solar PV systems, according to Ideal.
With published SCOP figures ranging from 4.96 to 5.19 at a 35C flow temperature, the range also offers potentially strong seasonal efficiency when correctly installed.
It may also appeal to homeowners looking for a national installation provider, as EDF Heat Pumps says it typically installs Ideal heat pumps – although its final recommendation depends on your property's requirements.
Compared with some of the more established heat pump ranges, the Logic Air may be less familiar to consumers, so it's therefore worth checking the exact model specification, installer experience and controls included in the package.
Ideal offers up to seven years of standard warranty cover for the Logic Air, subject to registration and annual servicing. Homeowners can also purchase extended protection for up to 10 years. In June 2026, the company introduced a Lifetime Warranty programme alongside its Lifetime Care service, combining ongoing protection with servicing and technical support, although additional charges and eligibility conditions apply.
Who is the Ideal Logic Air heat pump best for?
Ideal Logic Air is a useful comparison option if you're replacing an existing boiler and prefer a well-known UK heating manufacturer. It's also worth considering alongside other systems supplied through national installers, particularly if you're obtaining a quote from EDF.
Key specifications
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Aira heat pump
Best: integrated install-and-support package
Why we love it
- Integrated product and installation package
- App-based controls
- One provider for installation and support
Take note
- Availability can vary by location
- Long-term protection depends on maintaining a paid plan
Aira heat pump is different from traditional heat pump manufacturers because it sells and installs its own heating systems as a complete service.
Depending on your property, its installation package may include the outdoor heat pump, indoor components, hot water cylinder, buffer tank, thermostat and app-based controls.
The heat pump uses R290 refrigerant and has a published SCOP of 4.7 at a 35C flow temperature, suggesting potentially efficient operation under standardised test conditions.
One of Aira's distinguishing features is its long-term support package, offering up to 15 years of product and installation protection through its all-inclusive plan. However, the first year is free and customers must pay ongoing charges to maintain the plan thereafter.
This approach could appeal to homeowners who find the process of comparing separate heat pumps, installers and system components confusing. Having one company responsible for the equipment, installation and support may simplify aftercare.
The trade-off is that it's harder to compare Aira directly with a standalone heat pump bought through an independent installer. Homeowners should ask for a clear breakdown of the system being proposed, including components, installation work, warranties and ongoing support costs.
Who is the Aira heat pump best for?
Aira is worth considering if you want an integrated installation and support package rather than sourcing a heat pump through a local installer. It's a natural alternative to Octopus Cosy for homeowners who prefer a single-provider approach, although the ongoing cost of its protection plan should be factored into the decision.
Key specifications
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Your questions on the best heat pumps answered
Which is the best heat pump in the UK?
The Vaillant aroTHERM plus is our best all-round heat pump for UK homes in 2026. Its combination of high efficiency, a wide range of heating outputs, high flow temperatures and an established installer network makes it a strong choice for homeowners replacing a gas or oil boiler.
The Daikin Altherma 3 M is worth considering for larger homes, thanks to its range of outputs extending up to 16kW, while the Samsung EHS Mono HT Quiet stands out for homeowners concerned about noise, particularly where outdoor space is limited.
If you're looking to reduce running costs through smart energy tariffs, the Octopus Cosy is a compelling alternative, combining app-based controls with access to Octopus's dedicated heat pump tariff.
Ultimately, even the best heat pump won't perform efficiently if it's incorrectly sized or poorly installed. Before choosing a model, arrange a professional heat-loss assessment and compare quotes from MCS-certified installers. The quality of the system design, installation and aftercare is just as important as the heat pump itself.
How we chose the best heat pumps
We looked for heat pumps that are available in the UK and likely to appear in quotes from manufacturers, MCS-certified installers or national energy brands. Where possible, we considered:
Customer reviews can be useful, but they’re not always straightforward in helping you choose the best heat pump for your home. Many reviews of heat pump brands are actually reviews of installers, customer service teams, energy tariffs or boiler servicing rather than the heat pump unit itself. A poor installation can make a good heat pump perform badly, while a properly designed system can make a less glamorous model work well.
Before choosing any heat pump, it’s worth getting a room-by-room heat-loss calculation and quotes from more than one MCS-certified installer. For more on this, see our guide to what happens during a heat pump installation.
How much do the best heat pumps cost?
Heat pump installation costs vary widely because the outdoor unit is only part of the job. A quote may also include:
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme currently offers £7,500 towards an air source heat pump in England and Wales for eligible homes. The scheme is installer-led, which means an MCS-certified installer applies for the grant on the homeowner’s behalf.
A low headline price may not be the best deal if important work is excluded. Always check whether the quote includes all radiators, controls, labour, electrical work, scaffolding if needed, warranties and aftercare.
What are the different types of heat pumps?
The first choice most homeowners face is between an air source and a ground source heat pump.
Air source heat pumps are the most common option in the UK. They take heat from the outside air using a unit similar in size to an air conditioning system. Air source systems are generally cheaper and quicker to install and can work well in most homes with enough outdoor space.
Ground source heat pumps extract heat from pipes buried in the ground. They tend to be more efficient year‑round because ground temperatures are more stable than air temperatures – but installation is more disruptive and expensive. These systems are typically better suited to rural properties or homes with large gardens.
For most households, an air source heat pump will be the starting point, while ground source systems are more of a specialist option.
