Do Air Source Heat Pumps Work in Cold Weather?

Home Heating Hub
Sep 10
2 min read

One of the most common questions we hear is: "Do air source heat pumps really work in cold UK winters?" It’s a fair concern—after all, we rely on our heating systems most when the temperatures drop. But the good news is: yes, modern air source heat pumps are built to work even in freezing conditions.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the facts, dispel some myths, and explain why heat pumps are a reliable, efficient choice for UK homes.

How Do Air Source Heat Pumps Work?

Air source heat pumps extract heat from the outside air, even when it’s cold, and use it to heat your home and water. They work a bit like a refrigerator in reverse.

Even when it’s -5°C outside, there’s still heat in the air that a heat pump can harness. These systems use a compressor and refrigerant to absorb, compress, and release that heat inside your home.

Performance in Cold Weather

Modern heat pumps are designed for colder climates. Some key facts:

Most systems operate effectively down to -15°C
UK average winter temps are between 0°C and 7°C—well within a heat pump’s operating range
Scandinavian countries, which experience much colder winters, have higher heat pump adoption rates than the UK

With the right setup, air source heat pumps are more efficient than traditional boilers even in colder weather.

Do You Need Underfloor Heating?

No. While underfloor heating can work well with a heat pump due to lower operating temperatures, you don’t need it.

Air source heat pumps can work perfectly with radiators. In some cases, slightly larger or upgraded radiators may be recommended, but underfloor heating is not a requirement.

Efficiency in Winter

Yes, a heat pump might need to work harder in colder temperatures, but:

They still offer a better energy return than most boilers
Some systems include built-in backup heating for extreme cold
Overall, running costs stay competitive with fossil fuels, especially with energy price fluctuations

Eligible for Government Support

Thanks to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you could receive £7,500 towards the cost of switching to a heat pump. In some cases, this could cover the full cost.