If you are thinking of switching to a heat pump, you have more than likely wondered: “How much does it cost to run a heat pump for 1 hour?” And what’s gonna be my bills? And you know what, it is a fair question, especially as energy prices are still high across the UK.
Heat pumps consume less energy and are much more efficient than traditional heating systems. And if you are next in line to be offered a free air source heat pump grant under the ECO4 scheme, the switch could save you even more.
What is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is a low-carbon heating system. It basically works by pulling heat from the outside air and using it to warm your home. You can think of it like a reverse fridge. It uses electricity, but because it moves heat rather than generating it. So, it’s very energy efficient.
There are different types of heat pumps, but here we’re focusing on air source heat pumps. Because the air source heat pumps are the most common in UK homes.
Are Heat Pumps Less Expensive to Run in the Long Run?
Yes, electricity costs more than gas. But heat pumps make up for it because they’re far more efficient. A typical gas boiler is around 85–90% efficient. So there is always some energy wasted.
Modern air source heat pump, though, can be 350% to 400% efficient. That is, for each 1 unit of electricity that it uses, it gives you 3.5 to 5 units of heat. Now that is a huge plus on the cost of operation.
UK Energy Prices in 2025
According to Ofgem (April to June 2025):
- Electricity costs: 27.03p per kWh
- Gas costs: 6.99p per kWh
Electricity is nearly 4 times more expensive per unit. But again, it’s about how efficiently that energy is used.
How Much Electricity Does a Heat Pump Use?
To heat your home for one hour, an average air source heat pump might use between 1.2 to 2.8 kWh, depending on:
- Your home’s size
- How well is it insulated
- Outdoor temperatures
The efficiency of your heat pump (it is usually measured as SCOP – it is short for Seasonal Coefficient of Performance)
If your heat pump is 3.6 SCOP, it will deliver 3.6 units of heat per 1 unit of electricity consumed. And it is a lot. So, even if electricity is expensive, heat pumps save a lot of money in the long run because they are much more efficient than traditional heating systems.
Cost to Run a Heat Pump for 1 Hour in 2025
Let’s do some quick math’s.
At a cost of 27.03p/kWh electricity:
- If your heat pump consumes 1.2 kWh/hour: £0.32 per hour
- If it consumes 2.8 kWh/hour: £0.76 per hour
Therefore, running a heat pump for an hour in the UK in 2025 will cost around 31p to 75p.
What Influences the Running Cost?
The following are the key factors that influence how much you will spend per hour:
- Your Home’s Size
Larger homes require more energy to warm. If you have a 4-bed detached house, you can expect to pay more to run it compared to someone living in a 1-bed flat.
- Insulation Quality
Improved insulation means reduced heat loss, which means reduced energy consumption, and that equals lower bills. If your walls, loft, and floors are properly insulated, your heat pump will operate more efficiently.
- Outside Temperature
Heat pumps draw heat out of the air. If it is very cold outside, they have to try harder (and consume more electricity). But they are still efficient.
- Heat Pump Efficiency
New heat pumps have various SCOP ratings. A 4.0 SCOP heat pump is more efficient (and less expensive to operate) than a 3.0.
- How You Use It
Leaving it on continuously at maximum temperature? Your bills will be higher. Running it sensibly and reducing the thermostat by a few degrees can save you a great deal of money.
The Role of the ECO4 Scheme
If you are concerned about initial expense, don’t forget: You could be eligible for a Free Air Source Heat Pump grant from the ECO4 scheme.
The ECO4 scheme is supported by the UK Government. It helps low-income families, pensioners, and those living in energy-inefficient properties with upgrading to more environmentally friendly systems, free of cost.
Who Can Get a Free Heat Pump?
You may qualify for a free heat pump grant if:
- You receive certain benefits (like Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Child Tax Credit)
- Your home has a low energy performance rating (E, F, or G)
- You live in a rural or off-grid area
- Your current heating system is old and inefficient
Even if you don’t claim benefits, you might qualify under the ECO4 Flex rules, which look at household income and health conditions.
How to Apply for a Free Heat Pump
Here is how you can get started:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
You will need to fill in a short form online with details about your home, income, and benefits.
Step 2: Get a Free Survey
If you’re eligible, an assessor will visit your home to check your current heating system and insulation.
Step 3: Get Your Heat Pump Installed
Once approved, a certified installer will remove your old system and install a new air source heat pump, often in just a day or two.
And yes, it is completely free if you qualify.
The Bottom Line
While electricity is more expensive than gas in the UK, heat pumps are much more efficient. So they still offer competitive running costs, and are often cheaper than a traditional gas boiler.
And with the free Best Air Source Heat Pump grant under the ECO4 scheme, eligible UK households can make the switch without paying anything upfront. It is a smart step toward lower bills and a greener home.
If you’re ready to save money and energy, check your eligibility for ECO4 today.
