Guide to High Temperature Heat Pumps UK 2025

Written-by

Janet Richardson

Reviewed-by

Richard Burdett-Gardiner

Updated on

May 12, 2025

Guide to High Temperature Heat Pumps UK 2025

A high temperature heat pump is a low-carbon heating system that can heat your home to the same level of warmth but much faster than a conventional gas boiler. They are designed to produce water at higher temperatures than standard heat pumps, typically between 60°C and 80°C compared to the 35°C to 55°C range of standard models.

A high temperature heat pump system offers an excellent modern heating solution for existing buildings in the UK due to its compatibility with existing heating infrastructure such as traditional radiators and its ability to maintain efficiency even in cold climates. Compared to a normal heat pump, they will take less time to heat your home and reach higher temperatures, which reduces the need for extensive retrofitting. High temperature heat pumps can be more efficient in systems that require higher temperatures such as domestic hot water.

Recently high temperature heat pumps have attracted more attention as they offer a faster path to decarbonisation with less need for complete home insulation upgrades and bigger radiators. Making these upgrades is usually necessary when installing a standard heat pump, which can be a lengthy and costly process.

High temperature heat pumps are particularly well-suited for older buildings and homes where significant insulation changes and replacing radiators would be both impractical and costly. They tend to be more forgiving of lower insulation levels and can operate with existing radiator systems. The time saved on a lengthy retrofitting process allows for immediate decarbonisation.

High temperature heat pumps are also gaining interest in industrial settings, where they can recover waste heat from processes and deliver heat at temperatures above 100°C, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. They can help industries meet their climate targets and reduce their carbon footprint. 

How Do High Temperature Heat Pumps Work?

High temperature heat pumps work by using the same fundamental principles as standard heat pumps but with enhanced components, refrigerants, and control systems to achieve higher water temperatures. Like a standard heat pump, they run on electricity and produce 3 to 4 units of heat for every 1 unit of electricity used. This is referred to as the Coefficient of Performance (COP), which is the ratio of heat output to power input. A higher COP indicates a more efficient heat pump.

These systems also generate heat from a renewable source by absorbing warmth from the outside air, beneath the ground, or a water source. The heat is then transferred to your home via a refrigerant cycle.

Refrigerants are integral to the functioning of heat pumps. There are certain refrigerants that work best for high temperature heat pumps since they can compress and evaporate at high temperatures. Different refrigerants evaporate at different temperatures, so choosing the right refrigerant is vital when it comes to developing a high temperature heat pump.

As the refrigerant absorbs heat, it boils and turns into gas. It then condenses back into fluid as it releases heat, in a process known as the vapour compression cycle. To increase the heat levels produced from the cycle, high temperature heat pumps use advanced components such as compressors and heat exchangers.

High temperature heat pumps in the UK tend to use CO2 (carbon dioxide), R290 (propane), or R32 (hydrofluorocarbon). CO2 and R290 are both natural refrigerants.

CO2 heat pumps work well at up to 100°C and have consistently shown that they can produce a hot water supply at 80°C even under varying ambient conditions. The CO2 refrigerant has the lowest global warming potential (GWP) of all refrigerants at just 1 and is non-toxic and non-flammable. This means that it is classified as a safety group A1 refrigerant and can be used safely in public settings such as supermarkets.

GWP (Global Warming Potential) is a measure of how much heat a greenhouse gas traps in the atmosphere relative to carbon dioxide (CO2), which has a GWP of 1.

R290 is similar to CO2 in that it is highly efficient and non-toxic and offers a low GWP of approximately 3. However, it’s often preferred to CO2 as it is better for retrofitting, requiring conditions that are more in line with traditional system design. R290 is environmentally friendly and energy efficient, as a pure gas that doesn't emit greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. However, it is highly flammable (classified as A3), and must be installed with strict safety precautions.

R32 is also highly efficient and has a significantly lower global warming potential than R410A (another HFC refrigerant). One advantage that it has over R290 is that it is less flammable (classified as A2L, mildly flammable).

These refrigerants allow for advanced weather compensation, which means that ambient temperatures are monitored by your heat pump system and the water set-point or air temperatures in air source heat pumps are adjusted accordingly. When the temperature outside rises, your system lowers the flow temperature to increase efficiency. Conversely, when the temperature outside drops, your system increases the flow temperature to maintain the desired room temperature, while still operating at a high COP.

Here's a breakdown of how a high temperature heat pump works:

Heat Extraction:
High temperature heat pumps, like standard heat pumps, absorb heat from the ambient environment—even in cold weather.

Refrigerant Cycle:
This heat is then used to warm a refrigerant within the system, which is compressed to further increase its temperature and pressure.

Heat Transfer:
The high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant then flows to a condenser where it releases heat to the water circulating in your heating system via radiators and/or underfloor heating.

Enhanced Components:
To reach higher temperatures, high-temperature heat pumps use advanced components like more robust compressors and heat exchangers that can cope with increased temperatures and pressures. High temperature heat pumps often use refrigerants with higher critical temperatures and greater heat-carrying capacities, such as R290 or R32.

Optimised Control Systems:
Sophisticated control systems continuously monitor and adjust operating parameters to optimise performance and efficiency, such as compressor speed, refrigerant flow rate, and defrost cycles.

The Role of Compressors Explained

Compressors are essential for increasing the refrigerant's pressure and temperature. This increase is crucial for achieving the higher temperatures required for applications like heating water for radiators or industrial processes. The process of compressing the refrigerant also generates additional heat, which is then used to heat the system. 

The Role of Heat Exchangers Explained

High-temperature heat pumps utilise heat exchangers to transfer heat from the refrigerant to the desired medium (e.g., water, air). In a typical cycle, a heat exchanger (like an evaporator) absorbs heat from a source (e.g., air, ground, or waste heat) and then transfers it to the refrigerant, which is then compressed. The compressed refrigerant is then passed through another heat exchanger (condenser) where it releases its heat to the heating system. 

The way a high temperature heat pump works can also be broken down into 5 distinct phases:

• Evaporation – the heat is absorbed and converted into a low pressure, low temperature gas.
• Compression – the gas is compressed to increase its temperature and pressure.
• Condensation – the gas is converted back to a fluid in the heat sink or cold plate to conserve heat energy (in heat pumps heat sinks are used to transfer heat from the refrigerant to the air or water to achieve the desired heating or cooling effect and cold plates can be used in the evaporator (for absorption of heat from the source) or condenser for (release of heat)).
• Heat Sink – the fluid travels through your central heating or underfloor heating system via the heat sink. It can also provide domestic hot water depending on the type of heat pump used. 
• Expansion – the fluid returns to the expansion valves where it evaporates, and the temperature and pressure is reduced which restarts the cycle. 

Key Innovations Enabling Higher Output Temperatures:

Advanced Refrigerants:
Refrigerants like R290 (propane) offer higher efficiency at elevated temperatures and lower global warming potential (GWP) than traditional refrigerants. 

Two-Stage Temperature Lift:
This technology enables heat pumps to achieve higher output temperatures by utilising two stages of compression, making it possible to heat low-temperature waste heat to higher temperatures for effective utilisation.

High-Temperature Air Source Heat Pumps (HTASHPs):
HTASHPs are designed to deliver heat at higher temperatures, similar to gas boilers, making them suitable for older homes that may not be as well-suited for low-temperature heat pumps. 

Variable-Speed Compressors:
These compressors adjust output based on demand, improving efficiency and allowing for precise temperature control. 

Intelligent Control Systems:
Smart home integration and data analytics enable real-time optimisation of heat pump performance, adapting to changing conditions and maximising energy efficiency.

Extended Temperature Range:
The two-stage temperature lift allows for a wider range of applications, including utilising waste heat with temperatures as low as 30-40°C and heating it to over 160°C.

Heat Storage Integration:
Integrating heat storage devices into the heat pump cycle, such as the Flexible Heat Pump cycle, allows for the recovery, storage, and reuse of sensible heat, enhancing efficiency and enabling more efficient defrosting without interrupting the heating supply.

Benefits of High Temperature Heat Pumps

• High efficiency levels: High temperature heat pumps maintain high efficiency even when operating in harsh climates or when facing high heating demands. High-temperature heat pumps are designed to provide consistent heating performance, even in very cold outdoor temperatures. They offer a consistent flow temperature of up to 70°C, even in outdoor temperatures as low as -15°C. Their efficiency levels are comparable to other heat pumps on the market.
• Superior to boilers in efficiency: High temperature heat pumps surpass traditional boilers in terms of energy efficiency, with potential savings of up to 60%–70% on energy costs, depending on usage and system design.
• Compatibility with existing systems: Installing high temperature heat pump systems doesn’t usually necessitate the installation of new radiators or upgrading existing insulation. High temperature heat pumps are particularly suited to heating older buildings with traditional radiators. They are also a good option for buildings that can’t easily be better insulated or have a new heating system fitted, such as a large hospital. Their adaptability makes them an ideal solution for modernising current systems. High temperature heat pumps are easy to retrofit as you often won’t need to make any changes to your building’s existing infrastructure.
• Versatility in hot water production: They can produce hot water at a suitable temperature for various uses, including showers and baths. They are particularly effective for domestic hot water applications.
• Faster heating times: High temperature heat pumps can heat rooms and water faster than low temperature heat pumps, making your home more comfortable more quickly.
• Reduced environmental impact: They are more environmentally friendly compared to boilers, helping to reduce your carbon footprint. By using renewable energy sources, high temperature heat pumps contribute to lower carbon emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. They also use natural refrigerants, making them an eco-friendly choice. They have an important role to play in the decarbonisation of homes.
• Lower energy bills: Due to their high efficiency and ability to produce heat with less energy consumption, significant energy cost savings can be realised over time.
• Comfort and consistency: High temperature heat pumps provide consistent and reliable heating, ensuring a comfortable indoor environment even in colder climates.
• Smart grid connections: Some high temperature heat pumps are cloud-ready and can connect to the user’s Wi-Fi. They feature smart grid connections that deliver seamless solar PV integration, making them ideal for eco-conscious households.

Limitations and Challenges of High Temperature Heat Pumps

• Higher upfront costs: High-temperature heat pumps are more expensive to buy than standard models, and the installation process can also be more complex and costly. Depending on the type and size of system installed, a high temperature heat pump system can cost between £11,000 and £42,000, which is considerably more than a regular system. However, homeowners in England and Wales may be eligible for a £7,500 grant through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
• Higher operational costs: High temperature heat pumps typically use more electricity than low temperature models to achieve the same heating output, particularly in colder conditions. While still efficient overall, they may be more expensive to run than gas boilers, depending on electricity and gas prices. This could shift in future as grid decarbonisation and electricity tariffs evolve.
• Reduced efficiency: The Coefficient of Performance (COP) indicates a heat pump’s efficiency—the amount of heat produced per unit of electricity used. While modern high temperature heat pumps have improved COPs, low temperature models generally have higher COPs due to lower working temperatures. High temperature units operating at 60°C–80°C require more energy than those operating at 35°C–55°C. Some models may experience reduced efficiency in extremely cold weather, though weather compensation controls can help mitigate this.
• Complex installation: As with any heat pump system, installation may require modifications to existing pipework or radiators. Outdoor space is also needed for the unit. Units should not be installed in confined spaces, as this can reduce efficiency and cause frost buildup. Proper airflow is essential.
• System sizing and expertise: Accurate sizing is crucial to ensure efficient operation. This requires specialist knowledge. Poor sizing or placement can reduce performance or increase costs. Maintenance by qualified engineers is also essential.
• Heavier weight: High temperature heat pumps are often larger and heavier than standard models, making placement and installation more complex.
• Refrigerant considerations: Some units use R290 (propane), a natural refrigerant with low GWP but high flammability. These units must be sited with care to avoid hazards. R290 systems also operate at higher pressures. CO2 (R744) is another natural refrigerant, requiring very high pressure to deliver required heat outputs. This technology may be better suited to low-energy homes with a balanced demand between heating and hot water.
• Environmental impact of electricity: If the electricity used is generated from fossil fuels, the environmental benefits of a heat pump may be reduced. Grid decarbonisation is improving this.
• Maintenance requirements: Like all heating systems, heat pumps require periodic maintenance, including refrigerant checks, cleaning, and filter changes, to ensure longevity and performance.
• Noise: Heat pumps can generate noticeable noise, particularly at higher loads or in cold weather. Proper installation can help minimise this.
• Thermal storage: While capable of high output, pairing high temperature heat pumps with hot water cylinders or thermal stores can optimise performance and reduce running costs.
• Malfunctions: Heat pumps can experience issues such as refrigerant leaks, sensor faults, or compressor failures. Regular servicing can reduce the likelihood of such problems. 

Different Formats of High Temperature Heat Pumps

Air to water vs ground-source:
The installation of air to water high temperature heat pumps is relatively simple and less expensive than the installation of high-temperature ground-source heat pumps. Air to water heat pumps have a smaller footprint as they only require a single outdoor unit making them ideal for smaller homes, flats or properties where space is limited. The installation of ground-source heat pumps is more complex and expensive, requiring digging or drilling to install a ground loop or boreholes. They are best suited for larger homes with ample outdoor space or properties where deep boreholes are feasible.

Air to water heat pumps can be less efficient in very cold climates when compared to ground-source heat pumps. The greater efficiency of ground-source heat pumps is due to the more consistent temperature of the ground.

An air to water heat pump is a low carbon alternative to traditional heating systems while ground-source heat pumps offer a highly efficient and renewable energy source with minimal on-site emissions making them an even better option for the environment. 

Hybrid heat pump systems:
Hybrid systems combine a high temperature heat pump with a traditional boiler (gas or oil). The heat pump typically runs first to provide heat, and the boiler starts working when the heat pump’s output is insufficient or when the outside temperature drops below a certain point. These systems can be either ‘bivalent’ (using any heat pump and any boiler) or ‘purpose built’ (where the heat pump and boiler are designed and manufactured together).

There are 3 main advantages to these systems.

• Heat pumps are more efficient than boilers at lower temperatures so they can handle a large part of the heating load.
• By using the heat pump primarily, the hybrid system reduces reliance on fossil fuels which contributes to lower carbon emissions.
• In very cold weather, the boiler can provide additional heat ensuring a consistent heating output.

If you opt for a hybrid system, it’s important to bear in mind that it may have a higher initial cost than a standalone boiler. The installation process can also be more complex than a simple boiler replacement, but it can be relatively straightforward with a high temperature heat pump. 

Monobloc vs split systems:
Monobloc high temperature heat pumps offer a simplified, all-in-one system with components including the compressor, heat exchanger and controls housed in a single outdoor unit whereas split systems have separate indoor and outdoor units. The outdoor unit contains the compressor and heat exchanger, and the indoor unit is often located in the utility or boiler room.

Monobloc systems are typically easier and quicker to install due to their simpler design as it only involves connecting the outdoor unit to the existing system while split systems can be more efficient in certain situations such as extreme weather conditions and offer greater flexibility for installation. The monobloc system operates with water, not refrigerant, inside the home which eliminates the need for specialised F-gas qualified engineers. F-gas qualified engineers may be required for split systems due to the use of refrigerant.

The monobloc’s single unit design frees up space indoors that would otherwise be needed for an indoor unit in a split system. Monobloc systems are usually cheaper than split systems making it a good choice for budget-conscious homeowners. Monobloc systems are generally more affordable for initial installation than split systems. 

Domestic vs Commercial/industrial scale:
Domestic high temperature heat pumps are designed for individual homes offering heating and cooling at higher temperatures than standard heat pumps.

Commercial/industrial scale heat pumps are built for large buildings and industrial processes which require greater capacity, durability and efficiency. Commercial/industrial heat pumps handle larger spaces and higher demands than domestic units, often using multiple units for large-scale heating and cooling. Commercial units are more robust and may require more complex installation and maintenance than domestic models.

While both types offer high efficiency, commercial/industrial heat pumps can be used in industrial processes like drying, cleaning, and sterilisation, as well as for space heating in commercial buildings. 

Efficiency and Performance Metrics

The performance of heat pumps is measured using metrics like COP (Coefficient of Performance) and SCOP (Seasonal COP), with high-temperature models typically achieving COPs between 3 and 4, and SCOPs above 3.5. 

Here are some of the performance metrics used:

• COP (coefficient of performance): This measures the ratio of heat output to electrical energy input. High-temperature heat pumps generally have COPs between 3 and 4, meaning they produce 3 to 4 units of heat for every unit of electricity used. A high-temperature heat pump with a COP of 3.5 means that for every 1 unit of electricity it consumes, it produces 3.5 units of heat. This translates to a significant reduction in energy costs compared to a gas boiler with a COP of 0.9. 
• SCOP (Seasonal Coefficient of Performance): This measures the overall efficiency of the heat pump over an entire heating season. High-temperature models typically have SCOPs above 3.5, indicating good seasonal efficiency. 
• HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor): This metric, alongside SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio), helps assess a heat pump's overall performance over a heating or cooling season. 
• SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): This measures the cooling efficiency of the heat pump over a cooling season. 

How temperature settings affect efficiency

In high-temperature heat pumps, lower flow temperatures generally lead to higher efficiency. While high-temperature heat pumps are designed to work at higher temperatures, modern systems often utilise lower temperatures in practice, achieving similar efficiency to low-temperature models. This is because homes can often be sufficiently heated at lower temperatures, especially with features like weather compensation. 

Factors Affecting Efficiency

• Reduced compressor workload: In theory, high temperature heat pumps have lower efficiency due to the compressor working harder to reach higher temperatures.
• Weather compensation: Many high temperature heat pumps are equipped with weather compensation, which adjusts the flow temperature based on outdoor conditions. This means the heat pumps can work at lower temperatures during milder weather, maximising efficiency.
• Home suitability and insulation: Many homes are well-suited to lower heating temperatures. Proper insulation helps to maintain a stable indoor temperature, reducing the amount of heat the heat pump needs to produce. 
• Innovative refrigerants: Modern refrigerants like R290 (propane) and R744 (carbon dioxide) help to narrow the efficiency gap between high and low-temperature heat pumps. 
• Flow temperature: Lowering the flow temperature generally increases efficiency, as it reduces the amount of work the compressor needs to do. 
• Thermostat settings: Maintaining a consistent, comfortable temperature is vital for efficient operation. Avoid cycling the heat pump on and off, as this reduces efficiency. 
• Radiator size and type: Smaller radiators may require higher flow temperatures to achieve the desired heat output, potentially reducing efficiency. 
• Weather conditions: Outdoor temperature fluctuations can impact the heat pump's efficiency, with colder temperatures generally requiring the heat pump to work harder.

While high-temperature heat pumps can reach higher temperatures, they are not necessarily built to operate at these temperatures all the time. By utilising features like weather compensation and adjusting flow temperatures, they can achieve similar or even higher efficiency than low-temperature heat pumps, especially in homes with good insulation and appropriately sized radiators. 

Smart Control Integration

Smart control integration for high-temperature heat pumps allows homeowners to manage and optimise their heating systems remotely, enhancing comfort and efficiency. This can be achieved through features like smart thermostats, voice control integration, and app-based management, enabling users to adjust temperatures, set schedules, and monitor energy usage. 

Smart home integration

Smart Thermostats

• Programmable settings: Smart thermostats allow users to set schedules for heating and cooling, ensuring optimal temperature and efficiency. 
• Remote control: Users can adjust temperature and settings remotely via a smartphone app.
• Smart home integration: Some smart thermostats can be integrated with smart home ecosystems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
• Weather responsive adjustments: Smart thermostats can utilise weather data to automatically adjust settings and optimise energy usage. 

Voice control

• Hands free operation: Users can control the heat pump with voice commands, adding convenience and ease of use.
• Intelligent automation: Voice assistants can learn user habits and adjust settings accordingly.

App Based Management

• Remote access: Users can monitor and control their heat pump from anywhere with a smartphone app.
• Detailed monitoring: Apps provide insights into energy consumption, system performance, and temperature settings.
• Customisable settings: Users can create personalized schedules and preferences.

Here are some of the benefits of Smart Control

• Increased comfort: Smart controls ensure consistent and comfortable temperatures. Users can set pre-programmed heating schedules or have the system learn and adjust to their daily routines. 
• Reduced energy waste: Smart systems optimise energy usage, leading to lower energy bills and environmental impact. By optimising energy usage, smart controls contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly heating solution. 
• Improved efficiency: Smart controls help maximise the efficiency of high-temperature heat pumps. They can automatically adjust the heat pump’s output based on the outdoor temperature, ensuring optimal performance and energy savings. They can also learn user habits and adjust schedules, accordingly, heating only when needed and at the desired temperature. For homes with multiple smart zones, smart controls can optimise heating to only the occupied areas, further reducing energy consumption. 
• Convenience: Smart controls provide ease of use and remote access. They allow users to manage their heat pump from anywhere with an internet connection, offering flexibility and control. Smart systems can monitor their own performance and alert users to potential issues before they become serious, extending the lifespan of the heat pump. They are designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive interfaces and often allowing for remote setup and configuration. 
• Cost savings: By optimising performance and heating only when needed, smart controls can significantly reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. They can help maximise the heat pump's efficiency, especially in high-temperature applications. Some smart controls can optimise heat pump operation to take advantage of time-of-use energy tariffs, further reducing costs. 

Environmental Impact of High Temperature Heat Pumps

Heat pumps, including high-temperature models, leverage renewable energy by extracting heat from the surrounding environment (air, ground, or water). This contrasts with traditional heating systems that burn fossil fuels, releasing greenhouse gases. High-temperature heat pumps (HTHPs) contribute to net-zero targets by efficiently providing heating and cooling while reducing reliance on fossil fuels and their associated carbon emissions. This reduction is achieved by leveraging the high efficiency of heat pumps, which use electricity to move heat rather than generate it, and by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The specific reduction can vary depending on factors like the type of heat pump, the electricity grid's carbon intensity, and the application. 

Studies and data from organisations like the International Energy Agency (IEA) and British Gas indicate that heat pumps can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional gas boilers, depending on the electricity mix and location. Some studies have shown that switching from a gas boiler to a heat pump can reduce annual CO2 emissions by up to 1,900 kg for an average three-bedroom home. High temperature heat pumps can even reach carbon neutrality when paired with renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. 

Heat pumps are considered a vital technology for achieving net-zero emissions targets, as they offer a significant and readily available path to decarbonising heating systems. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that heat pumps can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20% compared to gas boilers, even in countries with higher carbon intensity electricity grids. 

Using low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants in high-temperature heat pumps is a key step towards achieving net-zero targets and reducing carbon emissions. Lower GWP refrigerants contribute to less greenhouse gas emissions due to refrigerant losses, helping to reduce the overall carbon footprint of heat pump systems. By using low-GWP refrigerants, the whole-life carbon emissions of a building or system are reduced, as the refrigerant's impact on the environment is minimised which also aligns with net-zero targets. Transitioning to low-GWP refrigerants such as R-290 (propane) or R-744 (CO2) from high-GWP refrigerants like R-32 reduces the impact of refrigerant losses, which can contribute to the overall carbon footprint of a building and a more sustainable future.  

When calculating the overall carbon footprint of a high temperature heat pump you need to consider both embodied and operational emissions over its lifespan. Due to the higher efficiency and lower operational emissions of high temperature heat pumps, their whole life cycle carbon footprint is typically lower than that of gas boilers, even with the higher embodied carbon. 

Factors Affecting the High Temperature Heat Pump’s Carbon Footprint

•    Electricity Grid Mix: The source of electricity used to power the high temperature heat pump significantly impacts its operational carbon footprint. 
•    Efficiency of the high temperature heat pump: Higher COP (Coefficient of Performance) high temperature heat pumps will have a lower operational carbon footprint. 
•    Heating Demand: The amount of heating and cooling required will influence the total emissions. 
•    Location and Climate: Climate conditions can affect the operating efficiency of the heat pump. 
•    Maintenance and Service: Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan and efficiency of the high temperature heat pump, reducing its overall carbon footprint.

Retrofitting High Temperature Heat Pumps into Existing Homes

Retrofitting high-temperature heat pumps into existing homes requires careful planning and professional installation, with a focus on ensuring the heat pump's efficiency and the home's overall energy performance.
What’s involved in the retrofit

Assess your home:

• Energy Audit: A professional energy audit is vital to identify areas of heat loss and determine the appropriate size and type of heat pump for your home. 
• Insulation: Poor insulation can significantly reduce the efficiency of a heat pump. Focus on improving insulation in walls, roofs, and floors. 
• Existing Heating System: Consider whether you need to upgrade radiators or replace your existing heating system to be compatible with the heat pump. 
• Space: Ensure there is sufficient space for the heat pump unit, both indoors (basement, boiler room) and outdoors. 

Choose the right heat pump

• Sizing: A correctly sized heat pump is crucial for efficiency. Installers should calculate the size based on your home's needs and existing insulation. 
• High-Temperature: High-temperature heat pumps can provide hotter water and can be suitable for existing radiators or underfloor heating. 
• Type: Consider air-to-water heat pumps or ground source heat pumps, depending on your property and needs. 

Prepare your home

• Insulation: Improve insulation levels in walls, roofs, and floors to minimize heat loss. 
• Draught-Proofing: Ensure windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent drafts. 
• Radiators: You may need to upgrade your radiators to larger ones or to those better suited for low-temperature systems. 
• Underfloor Heating: Consider installing underfloor heating, which can be more efficient with a heat pump. 
• Water Heating: Consider upgrading your hot water tank to a more efficient model or explore options for direct hot water from the heat pump. High-temperature heat pumps typically require a specific type of hot water cylinder to ensure efficient heat transfer and prevent excessive pressure loss.
  These cylinders need a large surface area coil to handle the higher flow rates and temperatures from the heat pump. Existing cylinders might need replacement, especially if they don't have a coil large enough to accommodate the heat pump's output. The size of the hot water cylinder should be appropriate for the household's hot water usage. Cylinders can usually fit in cupboards with a footprint of 80cm x 80cm or larger.

Installation

• Professional Installer: Use a qualified and certified installer to ensure proper installation and system configuration.
• Contract: Have a detailed contract in place with the installer outlining the scope of work, responsibilities, and costs.
• Monitoring: The installer should provide monitoring and maintenance services after installation. 

Other factors to consider

• Planning Permission: Check with your local council to see if you need planning permission for your installation. 
• District Network Operator (DNO): Your installer will usually help you notify the DNO of your heat pump installation. 
• Hybrid Systems: Consider using the heat pump in conjunction with a traditional boiler (hybrid system) for backup heating. 

High-temperature heat pump installation typically takes 2-5 days, depending on complexity. Modifications may include removing existing heating systems and potentially adjusting pipework or radiators. The amount of time it takes for the installation can vary based on factors like property accessibility, existing ductwork, and electrical requirements. 

Annual servicing by a qualified engineer is recommended, especially after the initial installation. Basic checks required include cleaning or replacing filters, cleaning coils and fans, ensuring proper airflow, and checking for leaks. Professional servicing Includes checking ducts for leaks, inspecting filters and coils, measuring airflow, checking refrigerant levels, and verifying reverse heating/cooling controls. 

Many installations include a 5-year warranty on the heat pump, and potentially a longer warranty if you opt for a service plan. Some warranties require annual servicing to remain valid. Warranties may cover parts and labour for repairs within the warranty period, but specific terms should be reviewed with your installer.

Top Manufacturers and Leading Models of High Temperature Heat Pumps

Daikin: Daikin is known for its high-quality and efficient heat pumps, with models like the Daikin Altherma 3H HT being popular choices. The Daikin Altherma 3H HT  is particularly well-suited for colder climates and can operate effectively at high temperatures. 

Mitsubishi: Mitsubishi offers a range of heat pumps, including their Ecodan range, which is known for its reliability and efficiency. 

Viessmann: Viessmann is a well-established brand with a reputation for energy-efficient and reliable heat pumps, such as the Vitocal series. Viessmann's Vitocal series is designed to be energy-efficient and compatible with existing heating systems. 

Samsung: Samsung offers a variety of heat pumps, including their EHS Monobloc, which is known for its efficiency and compact design. 

Vaillant: Vaillant is a major player in the heating industry. Vaillant's aroTHERM Plus is a popular choice for its high performance. 

LG: LG's Therma V series is well-regarded for its energy efficiency and quiet operation.