If you’re looking into heat pumps for the first time, you’re not alone. More homeowners across Kent and Sussex are switching to air source heat pumps to reduce energy bills, cut carbon emissions, and future-proof their heating.
But how do they actually work - and are they right for your home?
Here’s what you need to know.
The Basics – What Is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An air source heat pump is a low-carbon heating system that uses energy from the outside air to warm your home and hot water - even when it’s cold outside.
It works like a fridge in reverse:
A fan draws in outdoor air
A refrigerant absorbs the heat
The refrigerant is compressed to raise its temperature
Heat is transferred to your radiators or underfloor heating
The cycle repeats continuously
Because it moves heat rather than creates it by burning fuel, the process is extremely efficient - up to 400% in some systems.
Ideal for Off-Gas Homes – But Not Just Off-Gas
Across rural parts of Kent and Sussex, many homes - especially in villages like Cranbrook, Brenchley or Matfield - aren’t connected to the gas grid. These properties often rely on oil boilers, which are expensive to run, require external fuel tanks, and come with volatile prices.
For these homes, heat pumps offer a clean, quiet and far more efficient alternative.
But even if you are on the gas grid, replacing a gas boiler with a heat pump can still be a smart move - especially if:
You’re already investing in insulation or home upgrades
You want to reduce your carbon footprint
You’re planning a long-term stay in your home
You’re concerned about rising gas prices
With the Boiler Upgrade Scheme offering a £7,500 grant and 0% VAT on installations until 2027, heat pumps are now more accessible than ever - whether you’re replacing oil, LPG or gas.
Can It Work in Cold Weather?
Yes. Modern systems are designed for year-round performance and work efficiently even in temperatures as low as -15°C - well below what we typically see in the South East.
What Can They Heat?
Air source heat pumps can provide:
Central heating through radiators or underfloor systems
Domestic hot water
(In some models) Cooling during the warmer months
They’re adaptable for many different home types - from listed properties to new builds.
Long-Term Savings Through Efficiency
While a gas or oil boiler typically runs at 85–90% efficiency, an air source heat pump can achieve 300–400%. That means it generates 3–4 times more energy than it consumes, significantly lowering your running costs over time.
Many customers in Kent and Sussex report notable reductions in their heating bills - particularly when switching from oil or older boilers.
Is a Heat Pump Right for Your Home?
If you’re based in Kent, Sussex, or anywhere in the South East, and you’re thinking about upgrading your heating, a heat pump could be the right fit.
To make it easy, we’ve built a quick Heat Pump Calculator. It takes just a couple of minutes and gives you a personalised report - no jargon, no pressure, just clear guidance.
Start here and see what’s possible: Use our Calculator
