Discover how firsthand experiences through the Visit a Heat Pump scheme is reshaping attitudes, empowering homeowners to make informed decisions
Nesta's Visit a Heat Pump scheme just celebrated its one year anniversary(Image credit: Getty Images)
As more homeowners explore eco-friendly alternatives to traditional heating, the Visit a Heat Pump service has become a vital resource in the UK’s journey toward sustainability.
By connecting prospective buyers with real heat pump users, the platform offers an authentic glimpse into daily life with this technology.
This direct exposure not only increases understanding and confidence but also helps people weigh the benefits and challenges of heat pumps before committing to installation.
Growing interest in heat pump technology
Since launching in April 2024, Nesta's Visit a Heat Pump service has attracted significant attention, facilitating over 1,030 bookings and welcoming more than 1,600 visitors across the UK.
Many visitors come in groups, reflecting the broad interest from families and friends eager to learn about sustainable heating options.
Dan, a homeowner who visited a heat pump in Bedfordshire said: “For me, it was the clincher in the decision-making process... Having seen a house that was similar to mine, and hearing about his experience, I felt comfortable and ready.”
This growing engagement highlights how hands-on experiences are helping to demystify heat pumps and make them more accessible to everyday homeowners.
Get the Homebuilding & Renovating Newsletter
Bring your dream home to life with expert advice, how to guides and design inspiration. Sign up for our newsletter and get two free tickets to a Homebuilding & Renovating Show near you.
Changing attitudes through real-world experience
Visitors consistently report that the opportunity to see heat pumps in action and speak with current owners is invaluable in shaping their perceptions.
The visits allow potential buyers to understand both the advantages and how heat pumps work, leading to more informed decision-making.
Notably, while many visitors begin with a positive view towards installation, the experience often encourages a more thoughtful consideration, preventing costly and unnecessary surveys and installations.
Homebuilding & Renovating's David Hilton gave a review of what it's like to live with a heat pump to also show what homeowners can expect(Image credit: David Hilton)
Benefiting installers and the wider community
The service has also become an important tool for installers, with 47 registered professionals using the platform to engage their customers and promote hosting opportunities.
Hosts have independently added over 200 installers to the platform, demonstrating strong grassroots support and collaboration within the heat pump community.
This connection between homeowners and installers helps streamline the adoption process and supports the broader goal of increasing sustainable heating solutions across the UK.
News Editor Joseph has previously written for Today’s Media and Chambers & Partners, focusing on news for conveyancers and industry professionals. Joseph has just started his own self build project, building his own home on his family’s farm with planning permission for a timber frame, three-bedroom house in a one-acre field. The foundation work has already begun and he hopes to have the home built in the next year. Prior to this he renovated his family's home as well as doing several DIY projects, including installing a shower, building sheds, and livestock fences and shelters for the farm’s animals. Outside of homebuilding, Joseph loves rugby and has written for Rugby World, the world’s largest rugby magazine.
