Estimate how much your heat pump costs to run
The Heat Pump Running Cost Calculator helps you estimate how much it costs to run a heat pump in your home or property. By factoring in electricity prices, system efficiency, and heat demand, this tool provides a clear picture of daily, monthly, and annual running costs.
Understanding running costs is essential when comparing heat pumps with gas boilers or planning a low-carbon heating upgrade.
Heat pump running costs depend on three key factors:
Heat demand of the property
Coefficient of Performance (COP) or Seasonal COP
Electricity unit price
Because heat pumps move heat rather than generate it, they can deliver more heat energy than the electricity they consume—making them highly efficient when correctly designed.
The calculator estimates cost using practical system inputs.
You may be asked to enter:
Estimated heat demand (kWh)
Heat pump efficiency (COP or SCOP)
Electricity price per kWh
Operating hours or heating period
The tool then calculates:
Estimated electricity consumption
Daily, monthly, and annual running costs
Cost comparisons at different efficiencies
The Coefficient of Performance (COP) measures how efficiently a heat pump converts electricity into heat.
COP of 3.0 = 3 units of heat for 1 unit of electricity
Higher COP = lower running costs
Real-world COP depends on system design, flow temperature, and outdoor conditions.
Well-insulated home: Low annual running cost
Average home: Moderate, stable energy costs
Poorly insulated property: Higher costs unless insulation is improved
Actual costs vary based on usage patterns and electricity tariffs.
The Heat Pump Running Cost Calculator is ideal for:
Homeowners considering heat pump installation
Landlords planning energy upgrades
Heat pump installers and designers
Energy assessors
Retrofit and renovation projects
✔ Clear cost estimates
✔ Helps compare heating options
✔ Supports budgeting and planning
✔ Encourages efficient system design
✔ Easy to use and understand
High flow temperatures
Poor insulation
Incorrect system sizing
Low COP due to design issues
High electricity tariffs
In many cases, yes—especially in well-insulated homes. Actual savings depend on gas and electricity prices.
Yes. Better insulation reduces heat demand and significantly lowers running costs.
Time-of-use or heat-pump-friendly tariffs can reduce running costs when used correctly.
This tool focuses on heat pump costs, but results can be compared with known gas boiler expenses.
It provides reliable estimates based on your inputs. Actual costs may vary due to weather and usage behaviour.
Improve insulation and draught-proofing
Operate at lower flow temperatures
Use weather compensation controls
Maintain the system regularly
Choose suitable electricity tariffs
This calculator provides estimated costs only. Actual running costs depend on system design, climate, and usage patterns. For precise projections, a full energy assessment is recommended.
The Heat Pump Running Cost Calculator helps you understand the real-world cost of low-carbon heating. By estimating running costs accurately, you can make informed decisions, compare options, and plan for long-term energy savings.
Use this tool as part of your journey toward efficient, sustainable home heating.