Costs & Savings Guide

A transparent breakdown of typical costs, running costs, savings, and installation considerations for underfloor heating, heat pumps, and solar in Devon & Cornwall.

Typical Upfront Costs (2026)

Technology Typical Cost Range Notes
Underfloor Heating £65 – £130 per m² (installed) Screed systems are usually cheaper per m² but involve more disruption. Overlay systems cost more but are faster to install.
Air Source Heat Pump £6,500 – £13,000 (after £7,500 grant) Smaller properties can often be done at the lower end. Includes heat pump, cylinder and installation.
Solar PV System £6,000 – £11,000 (4–6kW system) Add £4,000 – £8,000 for a battery. 0% VAT currently applies on installation.

Running Costs & Annual Savings

Technology Typical Annual Savings Estimated Payback
Underfloor Heating £250 – £700 (vs traditional radiators) 8 – 14 years
Air Source Heat Pump £400 – £1,000 (vs gas or oil) 6 – 11 years (with BUS grant)
Solar PV £900 – £1,800 (including SEG payments) 6 – 10 years

Savings vary significantly depending on insulation, system design, and how the home is used.

Doing Multiple Technologies Together

Many homeowners install a combination of technologies. Here’s how costs and benefits typically change:

Heat Pump + Underfloor Heating

This is one of the most efficient combinations. Expect higher upfront costs but significantly better running costs and comfort compared to heat pumps with radiators.

Heat Pump + Solar + Battery

Can dramatically reduce grid dependency. Higher initial investment but excellent long-term savings and energy independence.

Installation & Labour Considerations

Underfloor Heating

Labour forms a large part of the cost. Screed systems take longer. Overlay systems are quicker with less disruption.

Air Source Heat Pump

Usually takes 3–7 days. A new hot water cylinder is often required. Must be installed by an MCS-certified installer to claim the grant.

Solar PV

Fastest to install (usually 1–3 days). Battery storage adds time and complexity. Roof condition is important.

Important Considerations

  • Insulation first — Improving insulation before installing a heat pump or underfloor heating almost always gives better results and can reduce the size of system needed.
  • System design is critical — The biggest factor in real-world performance is how well the system is designed and installed.
  • Grants — The £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant makes heat pumps much more affordable. Solar currently benefits from 0% VAT.
  • Combined projects — Doing multiple technologies at the same time can reduce overall labour costs and disruption.

Want personalised cost estimates?

Use our calculators to get tailored figures based on your property.