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Am I Eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) Grant?
You’ll qualify for the grant if you own a home or small business in England or Wales, are replacing an existing gas or oil boiler with a low-carbon heating system such as a heat pump, possess a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), and install a heat pump system with a capacity of up to 45kW. For more details, visit www.gov.uk/apply-boiler-upgrade-scheme.
Do I Need to Apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) Grant?
No, you don’t need to worry about the grant application—your installer handles the entire grant application process for you.
They’ll check your eligibility during the survey and submit the paperwork directly, making sure you get the funding you’re entitled to (£7,500 off the cost). You’ll be kept fully informed throughout the process, and the installer will confirm your grant approval before moving ahead with the installation.
Do I Need Planning Permission for a Heat Pump?
No planning permission is required for a heat pump if: The outdoor unit is under 1.5m³ in size. It is installed by an MCS-certified installer. Complies with the MCS sound‑power/noise limit.
The unit is not placed on a visible pitched roof, within 1 metre of a flat roof edge, or facing a main highway. Your home is not a listed building or located in a conservation area. If your home is located in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, different rules may apply. Always check with your local authority if you’re unsure. Your installer can advise on this.
Do You Need DNO Approval for Heat Pumps?
Yes — all UK heat pump installations require DNO (District Network Operator) approval or notification to ensure safe connection to the electricity grid. Most homes use a simple “connect and notify” process after installation, but larger systems may need approval in advance. Switch Together-vetted installers handle this for you, ensuring full compliance and protecting your eligibility for grants like the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
How Much Will a Heat Pump Cost for My Home?
The total cost of a heat pump installation depends on many factors unique to your home, such as size, existing heating system, and any necessary upgrades. Because of this variability, the best way to get an accurate cost estimate is to get a no-obligation offer from Switch Together. This ensures you get a clear picture of the investment and potential costs specific to your home. For more information, visit switchtogether.co.uk/heat-pumps/price .
Can I Choose Which Upgrades to Include in My Installation?
During your home survey, the installer will explain which upgrades are essential and which are optional. If a suggested upgrade isn’t strictly necessary, you’ll have the chance to opt out and proceed with a more basic installation that still meets your needs.
The final quote will clearly outline what’s included, so you can make informed choices based on your budget and preferences.
What Should I Expect in Terms of Heat Pump Noise Levels?
Modern heat pumps are designed to be as quiet as possible, but they do make some noise, similar to an air conditioning unit.
Most heat pumps operate at around 45–60 decibels, depending on the model and output. That’s broadly similar to a dishwasher or normal conversation when standing nearby. Actual noise levels will vary depending on the size and type of unit, but all products offered through the scheme meet MCS sound standards for residential areas. Your installer will be able to advise on the most efficient location to install your heat pump while minimising noise (e.g., away from bedrooms or garden seating areas).
Some heat pumps have a night mode that lowers fan speed, reducing noise even further.
How Is the Right Size and Capacity of a Heat Pump Determined for My Home?
The heat pump’s size and capacity are not one-size-fits-all—they’re carefully calculated during your home survey to match your specific heating and hot water needs.
The installer will survey your property to assess key factors like the size of your home, insulation levels, and your current boiler’s performance. This ensures that the heat pump installed will be powerful enough to keep your home warm and comfortable, without being oversized (which can lead to unnecessary costs and reduced efficiency).
You don’t need to worry about figuring it out yourself—our team will recommend the right system for your home, with performance and comfort in mind.
Can a Heat Pump Replace My Existing Boiler?
Yes, a heat pump can replace your current boiler as an efficient, low-carbon heating solution. During the survey, the installer will assess your property to determine the best heat pump system to replace your boiler, considering factors like your home’s insulation, heating needs, and existing pipework. Replacing a boiler with a heat pump may involve some upgrades, such as installing larger radiators or a new hot water cylinder, to ensure your heating system runs efficiently at lower temperatures. For more information, visit switchtogether.co.uk/blog/heat-pump-vs-boiler
What Is a Personal Offer, and What Does It Include?
When you register your interest, you'll receive a personalised offer tailored to your home. A personal offer is like a detailed quote made just for you. It includes the total cost, the equipment that would be installed, and an estimate of how much you could save with Switch Together. It’s a detailed proposal designed to help you make an informed decision, with no pressure to commit.
How Does Switch Together Help Me Get a Better Price?
Switch Together helps you secure a better deal through our group-buying model. Instead of going to just one installer, we invite multiple trusted, vetted installers to compete for your project—like an auction. They each submit their best price to win your business, which often results in offers that are lower than typical market rates. You get a personalised quote with clear pricing, without compromising on quality or service. It’s an easy way to access high-quality installations at more affordable prices.
What Are the Next Steps After I Accept the Personal Offer?
After you accept your offer, your project will move forward with a technical home survey. This is carried out in person before any installation begins.
During the visit, the qualified professional will:
Accurately measure your property.
Determine the right system for your needs.
Ensure everything is designed to fit your space, usage, and preferences.
Answer any technical questions you may have.
Heat Pumps – How Long Will the Process Take From Acceptance to Installation?
After the survey and any necessary approvals, the installation will be scheduled. Typically, installations occur within 6 to 12 weeks following the survey, although timing can vary based on factors such as:
Availability of equipment and installers
Weather conditions
Local permitting or access considerations
We aim to keep any delays to a minimum and will update you if scheduling changes.
Why Do I Have to Pay a Deposit?
A deposit ensures:
You receive a thorough, tailored home survey by qualified professionals
We can prioritise serious applicants and manage demand fairly
You get clear, expert advice and help securing the best available grant
And remember — the deposit is fully refundable if you don’t move forward for any of the eligible reasons.
Is the Deposit Refundable if I Decide Not to Go Ahead?
Yes — the deposit is conditionally refundable if certain conditions are met. You’ll get your money back if: Your Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grant application is unsuccessful. The survey shows your home isn’t suitable for a heat pump. The final cost is higher than expected due to additional mandatory work, and you choose not to go ahead. You decide to withdraw from the scheme before your home survey.
How Does Switch Together Vet and Approve Installers?
We know that the quality of your installation matters just as much as the heat pump itself. That’s why every installer we work with goes through a thorough vetting process before they join our schemes.
First, we check the essentials — the right industry qualifications, accreditations, company registration, and up-to-date insurance. We also review financial stability, reputation, and, importantly, whether they share our commitment to doing things properly.
But it doesn’t stop there. Once they’re on board, we keep standards high with ongoing performance checks. We track customer satisfaction scores and feedback, and audit their advice (both written and verbal) for accuracy and clarity. We also partner with an independent third party to inspect installations completed as part of Switch Together projects.
It’s all so you can be confident that whoever installs your heat pump will do the job right — and with the same care you’d expect if they were working on their own home.
Learn more at switchtogether.co.uk/installers
Can I Install a Heat Pump With My Existing Radiators?
In some cases, yes—but most homes will need some radiator upgrades. Heat pumps work at lower flow temperatures than gas boilers, which means radiators need to be more efficient at spreading heat. On average, half to two-thirds of radiators are replaced with modern, larger surface-area models.
These low-temperature radiators help improve efficiency and reduce running costs by allowing heat to circulate more effectively. Your installer will assess your home’s heating system and recommend whether any radiator changes are needed. As part of the Switch Together offer, a certain number of radiator upgrades are included at no extra cost, depending on the size of your home
Do I Need a Cylinder for Hot Water Storage?
Yes, if you currently have a combi boiler, you will need to install a hot water cylinder for heat pumps. This is because heat pumps don’t provide instant hot water on demand like a combi boiler does. Instead, they gradually heat and store hot water for use when needed.
If you already have a hot water cylinder, it will need to be replaced with a heat pump-compatible version. These cylinders are designed for lower-temperature heating, making them more efficient at storing and distributing hot water.
Your installer will determine the right size based on your household’s hot water needs; they will advise the right capacity during the survey.
Where Will the Hot Water Cylinder Be Installed in My Home?
If you’re switching from a combi boiler, your installer will identify a suitable location for your new hot water cylinder during the home survey. Common locations include: Airing cupboard (if you previously had a cylinder). Utility room or garage, if space is available. During your home survey, the installation team will assess your plumbing and available space to recommend the best location, one that’s both practical and efficient for your installation. They’ll make sure it fits seamlessly into your home.
Where Will the External Heat Pump Unit Be Installed, and How Much Space Does It Need?
The external heat pump unit is usually installed on an outside wall or in your garden. It needs enough space around it for proper airflow and easy access for maintenance. Don’t worry—your installer will help choose the best spot during your home survey, making sure it’s both practical and meets all noise and building regulations.
Our goal is to make sure the unit fits neatly into your home without causing disruption. We’ll also check that it’s quiet, efficient, and installed in a way that keeps everything running smoothly for years to come. Learn more at switchtogether.co.uk/heat-pumps/installation
Is There a Warranty With the Heat Pump Installation?
Yes, your heat pump investment is fully protected from day one, giving you complete confidence in both the product and the people installing it. Every heat pump installed through Switch Together comes with two layers of protection:
Product & Workmanship Warranty (Minimum 5 Years): All installers we work with are MCS-certified and must offer a minimum five-year warranty covering both the heat pump itself and the workmanship of the installation.
Insurance-Backed Guarantee (5 Years): Your warranty is also protected by a 5-year insurance-backed guarantee. This extra layer of cover ensures you're never left without support during the warranty period.
Will a Heat Pump Work With My Existing Underfloor Heating or Smart Controls?
Yes — heat pumps work especially well with underfloor heating. Most modern systems also integrate with smart thermostats and heating controls, giving you full flexibility and control. Your installer will check compatibility and ensure everything connects seamlessly.
Will Installing a Heat Pump Cause Any Disruption to My Home?
No — while some work inside your home may be needed (like adding pipework or connecting the system), installers aim to keep disruption to a minimum and keep hot water downtime to a minimum. Most of the work is done outside, and care is taken to avoid damage to walls or floors. If any adjustments are required, they’ll be done neatly, and professional finishing is included as part of the service.
How Does Switch Together Calculate Market Prices?
Our experts calculate the market price for heat pumps by analysing domestic installation data, removing outliers, and identifying pricing trends. This price is then adjusted for scheme requirements (like warranties and insurance) and validated against industry sources to ensure accuracy.
Can I Choose Which Upgrades to Include in My Installation?
During your home survey, the installer will explain which upgrades are essential and which are optional. If a suggested upgrade isn’t strictly necessary, you’ll have the chance to opt out and proceed with a more basic installation that still meets your needs. The final quote will clearly outline what’s included, so you can make informed choices based on your budget and preferences.
What Is a Personal Offer, and What Does It Include?
When you register your interest, you'll receive a personalised offer tailored to your home. A personal offer is like a detailed quote made just for you. It includes the total cost, the equipment that would be installed, and an estimate of how much you could save with Switch Together. It’s a detailed proposal designed to help you make an informed decision, with no pressure to commit.
How Does Switch Together Help Me Get a Better Price?
Switch Together helps you secure a better deal through our group-buying model. Instead of going to just one installer, we invite multiple trusted, vetted installers to compete for your project—like an auction. They each submit their best price to win your business, which often results in offers that are lower than typical market rates. You get a personalised quote with clear pricing, without compromising on quality or service. It’s an easy way to access high-quality installations at more affordable prices.
Is There Any Obligation If I Register for a Personal Offer or Join the Group-Buy?
No — registering for a personal offer or joining the group-buy doesn’t commit you to anything. It simply lets you see what’s available for your home and gives you a tailored offer.
You’ll have all the information you need to make an informed choice with confidence. You only proceed if it’s right for you — no pressure, no hidden obligations.
What Are the Next Steps After I Accept the Personal Offer?
After you accept your offer, your project will move forward with a technical home survey. This is carried out in person before any installation begins. During the visit, the qualified professional will: Accurately measure your property. Determine the right system for your needs. Ensure everything is designed to fit your space, usage, and preferences. Answer any technical questions you may have.
Why Do I Have to Pay a Deposit?
A deposit ensures: You receive a thorough, tailored home survey by qualified professionals We can prioritise serious applicants and manage demand fairly You get clear, expert advice and help securing the best available grant. And remember — the deposit is fully refundable if you don’t move forward for any of the eligible reasons.
Is the Deposit Refundable if I Decide Not to Go Ahead?
Yes — the deposit is conditionally refundable if certain conditions are met. You’ll get your money back if:
- The home survey shows your property isn’t suitable for the selected upgrade.
- The final cost is higher than expected due to additional mandatory work, and you choose not to go ahead.
- You decide to withdraw from the scheme before your home survey.
- For heat pump installations only, your Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grant application is unsuccessful.
How Does Switch Together Vet and Approve Installers?
We know that the quality of your installation matters just as much as the product itself. That’s why every installer we work with goes through a thorough vetting process before they join our schemes. First, we check the essentials — the right industry qualifications, accreditations, company registration, and up-to-date insurance. We also review financial stability, reputation, and, importantly, whether they share our commitment to doing things properly. But it doesn’t stop there. Once they’re on board, we keep standards high with ongoing performance checks. We track customer satisfaction scores and feedback, and audit their advice (both written and verbal) for accuracy and clarity. We also partner with an independent third party to inspect installations completed as part of Switch Together projects. It’s all so you can be confident that whoever installs your heat pump will do the job right — and with the same care you’d expect if they were working on their own home. Learn more at switchtogether.co.uk/installers
How Does Switch Together Calculate Market Prices?
Our experts calculate the market price for products and installations by analysing domestic installation data, removing outliers, and identifying pricing trends. This price is then adjusted for scheme requirements (like warranties and insurance) and validated against industry sources to ensure accuracy.
Does Switch Together Offer Finance or Payment Plans?
At the moment we don’t offer finance directly. But you may still be able to get financial support.
Some of the local authorities we partner with offer grants or funding schemes to help cover the cost of home energy upgrades. If you’re eligible, these can reduce what you pay or even fund parts of the work.
When you register your interest, we’ll let you know what support is available in your area and guide you through the next steps, so you can make an informed choice with confidence.
Who Looks After My System if My Original Installer Isn’t Available?
Your system is still protected.
Alongside the standard product and workmanship warranties, your installer is required to provide an Insurance Backed Guarantee (IBG). This means your cover continues even if the installation company stops trading.
If that ever happens, simply refer to the IBG documentation you received at installation and contact the insurer directly. They’ll guide you through what’s covered and the next steps, so you’re never left without support.
Do I Need Planning Permission or Other Approvals?
For most UK houses, solar panels are considered “permitted development,” so you usually don’t need planning permission, as long as the installation meets certain conditions (e.g., roof-mounted, not protruding too far beyond the roof slope or wall).
If your property is in a conservation area, is a listed building (or within its grounds), or has other restrictions (e.g., special local “Article 4” directions), you may need planning permission or listed building consent.
Even when planning permission isn’t required, building regulations still apply to ensure structural and electrical safety. Switch Together installers are experts in this — they’ll guide you through any approvals, checks, and regulations so your installation is safe, compliant, and stress-free.
Can I Add More Panels or a Battery Later?
Whether this is possible will depend on:
The available roof (or mounting) space, orientation and structural capacity;
The specifics of your original agreement (some financing/ownership arrangements might make later modifications more complex);
Electrical system compatibility (e.g. inverter capacity, wiring, compliance with regulations) — something your installer would need to assess.
If you foresee wanting expand later, it’s worth discussing this before installation with your installer — and maybe building in flexibility from day one.
What Warranties Are Included with Solar Panels and How Do I Claim?
Solar panels installed through Switch Together come with standard industry warranties from our vetted installer network, giving you peace of mind for years to come:
Products: At least 10 years covering manufacturing defects or significant drops in performance.
Electrical Components: Inverters and other key equipment are typically covered for 10 years.
Workmanship: Your installer guarantees the system will work correctly, usually for 10 years, backed by an Insurance-Backed Guarantee in case the installer is unavailable.
Your contract, provided after you accept your personal recommendation, will clearly explain: who to contact (installer or warranty provider), the duration of each warranty, and any conditions like maintenance or inspections.
If a problem arises, simply contact the installer or warranty holder as outlined in your contract. Switch Together’s helpdesk is also available to guide you every step of the way.
Who Owns the Panels, and What If Finance Is Involved?
With Switch Together, you own the panels once they’re installed. If you take finance via your local authority or installer, the financing agreement will define ownership — check those documents carefully before signing.
What Happens If I Move House – Can I Take the Panels or Transfer Benefits to the Buyer?
If you own the panels outright, you might be able to leave them installed and transfer the benefit to the new owner — though you should disclose the installation (and ideally supply the paperwork: warranties, installer certificate etc.) to the buyer.
If there’s finance involved, check the terms: in some cases you might need to get lender/lessor consent to transfer or remove the system.
Because of this, it’s often worth discussing with your solicitor/estate agent when you decide to sell — so the buyer fully understands what’s included (or what needs transferring).
What Do I Do If Performance Drops, There’s an Error Code, or the System Stops Working?
Contact your installer or warranty provider. Many issues, like wiring, debris, or inverter faults, can be quickly fixed by a qualified technician.
What Happens If There Is a Fault After My Solar Installation?
The warranties should protect you. If a fault occurs because of manufacturing or installation problems, you should be able to claim under the warranty. The installer (or their warranty insurer) would investigate, repair or replace the faulty components.
If the fault is due to external damage (storm, vandalism, accidental impact), that may or may not be covered — it depends on your insurance/home‑insurance policy and the warranty terms.
Do Solar Panels Affect My Home Insurance and Are They Covered?
Standard home‑building or house insurance may cover solar panels as part of the building’s structure or fixed fixtures — but it depends on your insurer and the policy wording.
Can My Solar Panels Be Mounted on a Wall or on the Ground?
Switch Together only offers roof-mounted solar panels.
How Can I Find Out My Roof Size?
The exact number of panels that can fit your roof will be confirmed during your roof survey. You don’t need an exact measurement to register—an estimate is enough. You can measure it yourself or estimate it:
Measure the length and width of each roof section.
Note the slope (rise over run) to account for pitch.
Calculate Area
Flat sections: Area = Length × Width × Pitch Factor
Triangular sections: Area = ½ × Base × Height × Pitch Factor
Add all sections for total roof area.
Alternatives
Satellite imagery or roofing apps (e.g., Google Earth).
Home blueprints or inspection reports.
Can I Install Solar Panels on a Flat Roof?
Yes! Solar PV panels can be installed on a flat roof, typically using frames to angle them toward the sun. To reduce wind impact, panels are usually placed landscape-style, with space between rows to prevent shading.
Flat roof installations may incur additional costs, which your installer will explain after the site survey. Many flat roofs also require a structural engineer survey to ensure they can safely support the panels. Your installer can guide you, though you may need to arrange this yourself.
If any extra costs are discovered that weren’t included in your Personal Offer, you are entitled to a refund of your acceptance deposit if you decide to cancel.
Is There a Warranty With an EV Charger?
All EV chargers installed through Switch Together are OZEV-approved and come with a minimum 3-year warranty covering both the product and the installation. That means you can have confidence that your charger—and the work done to install it—are fully protected. Our vetted installers will also guide you if you ever need to make a claim, so you’re never left figuring things out alone.
Do I Need Planning Permission for an EV Charger?
For most UK homes, you don’t need planning permission to install an EV charger. It’s considered a standard home energy upgrade.
If your property is listed, in a conservation area, or has other restrictions, you might need consent—but your vetted installer will guide you through the process, making sure your installation is safe, compliant, and stress-free.
Where Will the Charge Point Be Installed?
Most home EV chargers are installed in your driveway or another off-street parking spot. During your home assessment, your installer will discuss the best location with you to ensure your charger is convenient, safe, and works efficiently. You’ll have the guidance you need to choose the spot that fits your home and daily routine.
Do I Need Planning Permission for Solar Battery Storage?
Most UK homes don’t need planning permission for a solar battery. It’s treated as a standard home energy upgrade, just like adding a new consumer unit or replacing a boiler. There are a few rare exceptions — for example, if your home is listed or in a conservation area. If that applies to you, your installer will guide you through what’s needed so you know exactly where you stand.
Do You Need DNO Approval for Solar Battery Storage?
Yes — a solar battery usually needs approval from your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) so it can be connected safely to the grid.
Don’t worry, though. This isn’t something you have to figure out alone.
Your accredited installer handles the entire process, including the application and any technical details.
Where Will the Battery Storage Be Installed in My Home?
Your battery will be installed in a safe and accessible location — usually:
- A utility room
- A garage
- A dedicated cupboard
- A similar indoor space with good ventilation
- Or outdoors at the side of the property
During your home assessment, the installer will find the most suitable spot so the system works efficiently and neatly.
Is There a Warranty With a Solar Battery System?
Solar battery systems installed through Switch Together come with standard industry warranties to give you confidence in your investment:
Products: At least 10 years covering the battery, inverter, and installation materials.
Workmanship: Your installer guarantees your system will operate correctly, usually for 10 years, with an Insurance-Backed Guarantee in case the installer can’t support you.
Adding a battery doesn’t affect the warranty on your existing solar panels — those original warranties remain in place.
Your contract will clearly outline who to contact and any conditions, like routine maintenance or inspections. And if you need extra help, Switch Together’s helpdesk is on hand to guide you.
Can My Battery Keep the Lights On During a Power Cut?
A standard home battery automatically shuts off during a local power cut to keep you and the grid safe. If you’d like your battery to keep powering essential appliances during an outage, you’ll need an Emergency Power Supply (EPS) — an optional extra that lets your system run independently from the grid.
Can I Add an Emergency Power Supply (EPS) Throught Switch Together?
EPS isn’t included in your Personal Offer, but you can request it directly from your winning installer. If it’s something you’re considering, simply mention it after receiving your recommendation, and they’ll talk you through what’s possible for your home.
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