Disruption and cost have been identified as the two main barriers to a large-scale adoption of heat pumps by UK homeowners.

The recent report from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy makes valid points, and there are many other factors at play. But one issue which is rarely highlighted is the amount of confusing and sometimes misleading information out there.

This recent article from the Independent website is a good example. There is plenty of information but without context the article actually tells us very little.

We know, for instance, that the total cost of the air source heat pump (including installation) was £27,000. That’s a substantial amount of money, and we really need further details about the type and size of the system installed and what other accessories and ancillary items were included.

Then we read that the homeowner predicts his electricity bill for the month in question (December) “could reach £1,000”. He says his annual bill would be “roughly double the price of his previous set-up”. The lack of background, with some figures for comparison, means this article is in danger of leaving the reader with more questions than answers. For example, how was the property previously heated? If it was gas, how much was the gas bill? Are they including the total energy bill or just electricity costs?

This is not a sales pitch.

We are not suggesting that anyone rushes out and buys a heat pump. Because while a correctly specified and competently installed system may be the answer for some people, it would not make sense for everyone.

But replacing a heating system represents a significant investment, and every potential customer needs clear and transparent information to make an informed choice.

If you are looking at heat pumps for your home, check out our blog covering the different finance and grant options available. Incentives and finances for heat pumps or read an overview of The boiler upgrade scheme