Do air source heat pumps work well with solar panels?

Solar panels are no longer a rare sight in the UK. In fact, more than 1.3 million homes now have them on their rooftops. And it’s easy to see why: a typical system can cut around a tonne of carbon each year, the same as driving over 3,600 miles.

Heat pumps are also on the rise. They can deliver about three times more heat than the electricity they use, making them one of the most efficient ways to warm a home.

Put the two together, and you’ve got a system that’s greener, cheaper to run, and ready for the future. Let’s take a closer look at how these two technologies work side by side to help you save money and live more sustainably.

Jump to:

• Can heat pumps and solar panels work together?
• What are the benefits of combining solar panels and heat pumps?
• How do solar panels and heat pumps work together?
• How do solar panels work?
• How do air source heat pumps work?
• Are solar panels and heat pumps right for my home?

Can heat pumps and solar panels work together?

Yes, absolutely. Solar panels and air source heat pumps can complement each other perfectly in the right property. Solar panels produce electricity during the day, which can be used to power your heat pump. This means your heating and hot water can run largely on renewable energy, reducing the amount of electricity you need to buy from the grid. Even when your solar panels aren’t producing as much electricity, like in the winter or on cloudy days, your heat pump is an efficient way to heat your home.

What are the benefits of combining solar panels and heat pumps?

Combining solar panels and heat pumps comes with a whole range of benefits, including:

Lower energy bills

Solar panels generate electricity as long as there’s daylight. This electricity can power your heat pump and your household appliances, so you rely less on grid energy. Even when solar production dips, your heat pump is still a cheaper, greener heating option than fossil fuel systems.

Smaller carbon footprint

Both technologies are environmentally friendly. By using renewable energy instead of fossil fuels, you cut down your household’s carbon emissions and contribute to a cleaner future.

Energy independence

Adding a solar battery makes the system even stronger. You can store excess electricity produced in the day and use it in the evening or during periods of low solar output. That gives you greater control over your energy use and costs.

How do solar panels and heat pumps work together?

Here’s how solar panels and heat pumps could work together:

• Solar panels capture daylight and generate electricity.
• This electricity can be fed directly into your heat pump, which uses it to transfer heat from the outside air into your home.
• The result is renewable-powered heating and hot water, with little or no need for grid electricity during sunny hours.
• If you have a solar battery, you can store extra energy produced in the day to run your heat pump at night.

It’s important to note that solar panels won’t power your heat pump 24/7, especially in winter or at night. While a battery can extend the hours your solar energy covers, you’ll still need some electricity from the grid. The good news is that your heat pump is highly efficient, so even when it uses grid power, it consumes far less energy than a gas boiler or electric heating system.

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels convert daylight into electricity through photovoltaic cells. When daylight hits these cells, it generates direct current (DC) electricity, which is then passed through an inverter, converting it into alternating current (AC) electricity.

This AC energy powers your home, giving you clean, low-cost electricity. With a solar battery, you can also store excess energy to use when it’s dark or when your panels aren’t producing as much.

How do air source heat pumps work?

Air source heat pumps warm your home by transferring heat from the outside air into your property, even when it feels cold outside. Using a refrigerant, they absorb heat, compress it to a higher temperature, and then release it indoors to provide heating and hot water.

They can also reverse the process, acting as a cooling system in summer. This makes them a versatile, efficient, and eco-friendly solution for year-round comfort.

Are solar panels and heat pumps right for my home?

Most homes in the UK can benefit from a solar and heat pump combination, but there are a few things to consider:

• Roof space and orientation – South-facing roofs tend to capture the most daylight, but east- or west-facing roofs can also work.
• Insulation – A well-insulated home will get the most out of a heat pump.
• Radiator sizing and flow temperature – Some homes may need radiator upgrades or adjustments to work effectively with a heat pump’s lower operating temperature.
• Smart controls and tariffs – Pairing your system with smart thermostats or weather compensation controls helps it run more efficiently. Using time-of-use tariffs alongside a battery can also maximise your savings by shifting energy use to cheaper periods.
• Planning and standards – Most air source heat pumps are classed as permitted development, but they must meet noise and placement rules. Choosing an MCS-certified installer is key, both for quality assurance and to ensure you’re eligible for government grants.

If you’re unsure, our MCS-certified team can carry out a free assessment to advise whether your property is a good fit. Just get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

Get your solar heat pump system with Grant Store

Combining solar panels with an air source heat pump is a smart choice if you’re looking to cut your costs and reduce your environmental impact.

If you’re ready to take the next step – or still have questions about how this pairing could transform your energy use – give us a call today.

We have over 50 years of experience helping people all over the UK cut their costs with energy-saving solutions. From solar panels and heat pump installations to new boilers and improved insulation, we have what you need.

Reach out today, and our experts will design and install a bespoke system just for you.