Is Your Home Heat-Pump Ready?

OHM Energy Sussex

Heat Pumps – A Practical Guide for Homeowners

With the UK on a clear path toward net zero, heat pumps are rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about technologies in home energy. But while the environmental and financial benefits are clear, one big question remains for many homeowners:

Is my home heat-pump ready?

If you live in the South East of England, where older housing stock and mixed property types are common, this guide will walk you through what you need to know before making the switch.

OHM Energy

What Is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a highly efficient, low-carbon heating system that extracts heat from the air or ground to warm your home and hot water. It works much like a fridge in reverse, and can reduce your carbon footprint and energy bills significantly.

There are two main types:

  • Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) – ideal for most UK homes.
  • Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) – better suited for larger plots of land.

What Makes a Home Heat-Pump Ready?

Before you install a heat pump, it’s important to assess whether your property can support it effectively. Here are the key factors:

1. Good Insulation

Heat pumps work best in homes that retain heat well. If your property is poorly insulated, the system will need to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing running costs.

✔️ Upgrade loft and cavity wall insulation

✔️ Seal draughts around doors and windows

Top tip: Homes built after 1990 in the South East are more likely to be insulation-ready, but older homes may need retrofitting.

2. Radiator Size and Heating System Compatibility

Heat pumps operate at lower temperatures than gas boilers, so they often require:

  • Larger radiators
  • Or underfloor heating

We will assess whether your current system can be adapted or upgrade, and can help install new radiators or underfloor heating if needed.

3. Space for the Unit

For air source heat pumps, you’ll need:

  • Outdoor space for the external unit (like a garden, driveway, or side return)
  • Indoor space for a hot water cylinder

If you’re in a terraced home or flat, a compact or split system may be an option for you.

4. Electrical Capacity

Heat pumps require a reliable power supply. We will check your home’s electrical system to ensure it’s up to standard. This is especially important in rural areas or older properties across Kent, Sussex, Surrey, and beyond.

Why It Matters for the South East

The South East has one of the highest concentrations of off-gas homes in the UK — particularly in rural and semi-rural areas of Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, and Surrey.

Heat pumps are a future-proof solution for homes looking to:

  • Move away from oil or LPG
  • Avoid rising gas costs
  • Increase energy efficiency ratings (EPC)

Plus, upgrading to a heat pump can increase your home’s value and appeal to eco-conscious buyers.

Final Thoughts

A heat pump can transform the way your home uses energy — cutting emissions, stabilising bills, and making your home future-ready.

If you’re thinking about upgrading, now is the time to act.

Contact us today for your heat loss survey and find out if your home is ready for the future of home heating.

Email hello@ohmenergy.co.uk

Tel 01323 739474