Installing a heat pump is one of the smartest investments you can make for the comfort of your home. When purchasing one, a very common question is how long the installation takes, because everyone wants speed, of course, without compromising on quality.
The answer differs significantly depending on whether we’re talking about a new build or an already inhabited home. In both cases, the duration depends on the existing infrastructure, the type of heat pump chosen, and how the installation team organises the work.
Find out more in this article:
New House: Installation Moves in Step with Construction
In a home under construction, heat pump installation is integrated into the building process. No time is lost on adaptations or demolition, because the infrastructure is designed from the start for this type of system. Pipes, heating circuits, and domestic hot water connections are included directly in the house plans, and the installation team has the freedom to work quickly.
The actual installation time, depending on complexity, usually ranges from 3 to 5 working days. If the system includes underfloor heating, a few extra days may be added, but this is already part of the overall construction schedule. The main advantage is that everything is installed logically, within the workflow of the builders.
Old House: Surprises Along the Way
In an existing, inhabited home, installation time can be longer, because the team must adapt to what they find. Each house has its own particularities: old heating systems, limited space for the indoor unit, or occupied routes for piping. In many cases, modifications to the existing installation are required, or even replacement of radiators with models sized for lower operating temperatures, which are more suitable for heat pumps.
A standard heat pump installation typically takes 5 to 10 working days. If adaptation work is needed, the duration can be extended, especially if multiple teams are involved such as installers, electricians, or builders for finishing work. Still, this extra effort ultimately delivers an efficient system that lowers monthly bills and increases comfort. Another key aspect: in an old house, installation should be carefully planned to minimise disruption for residents.
Factors That Influence Duration, Regardless of House Type
Even with the differences between new and existing homes, some elements will always affect how long a heat pump installation takes. These factors go beyond the building itself and relate more to the system’s design, the working conditions, and the expertise of the installation team. Understanding them helps set realistic expectations and avoid unnecessary delays.
Installation time doesn’t depend only on the age of the house. A few other details matter just as much:
- Type of heat pump installation: Air-to-water, ground-to-water, or water-to-water. Models involving drilling or groundworks take longer
- Complexity of the internal system: Underfloor heating, hot water storage tanks, or backup systems, all can influence the process;
- Access and available space: A well-prepared technical room speeds things up, while improvisations slow things down;
- Team experience: An installer who knows the right sequence of steps finishes faster and with fewer interruptions.
Ultimately, most delays can be prevented with careful planning and professional execution. When these influencing factors are properly accounted for from the start, the installation stays on schedule and homeowners enjoy a seamless transition to an efficient, modern heating system.
How to Reduce Installation Time
While some factors are outside your control, there are practical steps you can take to make heat pump installation more efficient. By preparing in advance and working closely with experienced professionals, you can minimise delays and keep the project running smoothly.
Whether in a new or an old house, there are a few rules that make the process shorter:
- Plan early: Involve a specialist during the design stage or, if it’s an older home, before signing the purchase contract;
- Choose the right team: Time lost on future repairs is far more expensive than hiring professionals from the start;
- Prepare the technical space: A properly set-up area for the indoor unit can cut days off the installation time;
- Communicate openly with the installers: Clarify expectations and constraints right from the beginning.
Small actions like early planning, clear communication, and preparing the installation space can save days in the overall timeline. With the right approach, you’ll not only reduce installation time but also ensure the system performs reliably for years to come.
Final Thoughts
The time it takes to install a heat pump can vary widely, but with the right planning and a skilled team, the process is straightforward and rewarding. Whether it’s part of a new build or an upgrade in an existing home, understanding the factors that influence duration, and taking steps to reduce them, makes the experience far smoother.
In the end, installation is just a short phase compared to the long-term benefits: lower energy bills, greater comfort, and a more sustainable way of heating your home. By working with trusted professionals, you’ll know exactly what to expect at every stage and enjoy peace of mind that your investment will deliver for years to come.
