A survey on behalf of Midlands-based Spitfire Homes has found that new home buyers are not looking for air source heat pumps – despite the imminent ban on gas boilers in new homes due in 2025.
In fact, only 19% of buyers surveyed would pay more for air source heat pumps in new homes, while 37% prefer solar panels.
Air source heat pumps came out as the lowest priority for prospective buyers compared to solar panels, smart heating systems, underfloor heating and car charging points, while one in six do not prioritise any sustainable features at all.
The UK Government’s Future Homes Standard requires all new homes to meet strict energy efficiency requirements, with Redrow and smaller developers committing to air source heat pumps.
“With the new legislation on gas boilers being introduced in less than two years, it’s concerning that air source heat pumps are not yet on the radar or the wish lists of prospective buyers,” comments managing director Ben Leather.
Air source heat pumps are four times more efficient than gas boilers, reducing CO2 emissions and saving on energy bills by transferring energy from outside air to heat water for radiators and underfloor heating.
