Frequently asked questions
Heat pump questions, answered straight
The questions rural Scottish homeowners actually ask about air source heat pumps: replacing oil and LPG, keeping radiators, interest-free credit, and how to get a quote. Direct answers, no sales language. Interest-free credit up to £30,000, subject to status.
Related guides
Related guides
FAQ
Questions about heat pumps in rural Scotland
Can a heat pump replace oil or LPG heating in a rural Scottish home?
Yes. Replacing oil or LPG with an air source heat pump is one of the most common upgrades we carry out in rural Scotland. The existing radiators and pipework can often be retained, though some radiators may need upgrading to larger sizes because heat pumps run at lower flow temperatures. A room-by-room heat loss calculation at survey determines exactly what stays and what changes.
Can I keep my existing radiators and hot water cylinder?
It depends on the heat loss calculation. Heat pumps circulate water at lower temperatures than oil or gas boilers, so radiators sometimes need to be larger to deliver the same heat output. Some existing radiators can be kept; others may need upgrading. A modern hot water cylinder designed for heat pump use is usually installed as part of the system. The survey covers all of this and the fixed quote lists every change.
Is interest-free credit available for heat pump installation?
Interest-free credit up to £30,000, subject to status. We can discuss this during the quote process. The fixed written quote you receive after the on-site survey shows the full installation cost. No deposit is required to get a quote.
How do I get a quote for a rural heat pump?
Call us on 0141 230 0198 or fill in the quote form on this page. A surveyor will call you back within two working days to arrange an on-site visit. The survey takes about an hour and includes a room-by-room heat loss calculation. You then receive a fixed written no-obligation quote with the heat pump model and all work itemised.
How long does a heat pump installation take in a rural property?
A typical air source heat pump installation takes two to four days depending on the property. The surveyor assesses the complexity during the on-site visit, including pipe runs, radiator upgrades, and electrical work. The fixed written quote includes the expected timeline so you know how long the disruption will last before you commit.
Do heat pumps work in stone-built rural properties with solid walls?
Yes, but the solid stone walls common in rural Scotland lose more heat than modern cavity walls. The heat loss calculation accounts for the actual wall fabric, and some properties may need insulation upgrades before a heat pump is fitted. The survey measures wall U-values on site and the quote lists any insulation work required.
What is the warranty or guarantee on a heat pump installation?
The MCS commissioning certificate is issued on completion, and the installation comes with a written insurance-backed guarantee. The heat pump manufacturer warranty typically covers the unit for several years. The exact terms are confirmed in your fixed written quote at the time of survey.
Will a heat pump lower my heating bills compared to oil or LPG?
In most rural properties heated by oil or LPG, an air source heat pump reduces running costs because it uses electricity more efficiently than a boiler uses fuel. The actual saving depends on your property, insulation, and fuel prices. The survey includes a running cost estimate based on your heat loss calculation and current fuel costs.
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Still have questions?
Fill in the form or call us and we will answer them.
For more on heat pump heating across Scotland, see our colleagues at Air Source Heat Pumps Scotland. To compare monthly repayment figures, the interest-free finance calculator can help. Broader heating guidance is available from Heat Pumps Scotland Ltd. Part of the Scottish Energy Efficiency network.
Last updated: 28 October 2026 · Reviewed by the Scottish Energy Efficiency team