FAQ
Answers before you book
If you're considering a heat pump for a Manchester property, the biggest worry is usually the unknowns: sizing, disruption, and whether the system will actually feel warm in winter.
Northline Heat Pumps focuses on a clear process—home survey, heat-loss and emitter checks, practical design choices, then a tidy installation with commissioning and handover.
This page answers the questions we hear most from homeowners, landlords, and property managers who want straight answers without guesswork.
If your question isn't covered, we'll happily talk it through after a quick look at your home and existing heating.
Common questions, clear answers
Quick, plain-English answers to help you plan your next step.
Can I get a grant for a heat pump?
In England and Wales, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) can contribute towards an eligible heat pump installation, and you apply through an MCS certified installer. As of 21 July 2026, the standard BUS grant value for an air-to-water heat pump is £7,500, and some eligible off-gas-grid homes can receive £9,000 (available 21 July 2026 to 31 March 2027). Grants and eligibility can change—confirm your position before committing.
Do I need planning permission in Manchester?
Many air source heat pumps in England can be installed under permitted development rules, but only if the installation meets specific limitations and conditions. These include limits on the outdoor unit size (volume) and where it can be positioned, and the unit must comply with the MCS Planning Standards. If your property is listed, in a conservation area, a flat, or you're tight to boundaries, it's worth checking with Manchester City Council before installation.
Will I need new radiators or pipework?
Not always. Heat pumps work best with lower water temperatures than many older boiler systems, so the real question is whether your current radiators can deliver enough heat at those temperatures. During a survey we look at room-by-room heat loss, radiator sizes, and your current pipework. Where upgrades are needed, we'll explain exactly what changes are recommended and why.
Are heat pumps expensive to run?
Running cost depends on your home's heat loss, how well it's insulated, your hot-water use, and how the system is controlled. A well-sized, well-set-up heat pump should provide steady comfort (rather than short bursts of very hot radiators). We'll talk through practical ways to keep running costs sensible—like flow temperature settings, weather compensation, and any insulation or draught-proofing that's worth doing.
How long does installation take—and how disruptive is it?
The most time-consuming part is usually the upfront design work: survey measurements, heat-loss calculations, and agreeing the plan for the cylinder, outdoor unit location, and any radiator changes. Installation is typically completed over several days, depending on your existing system and access. We'll confirm what needs to be isolated, where we'll route pipes and cables, and what you can expect day by day before we start.