Air source vs ground source heat pumps: what's the difference

An air source heat pump extracts heat from the outside air and needs an outdoor unit, similar in size to an air conditioning unit, plus space for pipework. Most UK domestic installs are air source.

A ground source heat pump extracts heat from the ground via buried pipework (a horizontal loop, needing a larger garden, or a vertical borehole where space is limited). Installation is more disruptive and typically involves groundworks.

Both technologies are eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant (see our grant page for the current figures). An MCS-certified installer will assess your property — insulation, available outdoor space, and heat demand — before recommending which fits your home.

This site lists installers by the technology types they've registered with MCS, so you can filter for the type relevant to your property using the county page filters.