When planning a new home or renovation, heating decisions sit alongside wider design and build choices. Daikin focuses on the systems behind the scenes that create everyday comfort, with heat pump solutions that can support heating, cooling and hot water as part of a planned home comfort approach.
As headline sponsor of Grand Designs Live, Daikin UK is sharing clear, practical insight into how heat pumps work in real homes.
Will a heat pump work in my home?
Heat pumps can work in a wide range of homes, including older properties, renovations and new builds. What matters most is how the home is set up and how it will be used. At the show, Daikin specialists explain how different homes approach heat pumps, what to think about early, and how systems are planned to suit real layouts and lifestyles.
Will it keep my home warm enough in winter?
This is one of the biggest concerns homeowners have. Modern heat pump systems are designed to provide reliable, steady warmth even in cold weather. At Grand Designs Live, Daikin experts explain how comfort is delivered day-to-day, how heat is distributed evenly throughout the home, and what makes a system feel comfortable rather than just powerful.
Is a heat pump expensive to run?
Running costs depend on the home, the system design and how it is used. In a typical four-bedroom home, a Daikin heat pump can cost over £110 a year less to run than a gas boiler. Many households can now benefit from heat pump electricity tariffs, which can reduce running costs further and help make day-to-day energy use more predictable.
Do I need to change anything in my home?
Some homes need adjustments, others very little. Changes might include upgrading radiators, allowing space for a hot water cylinder, or making small improvements to insulation or controls. In many cases, these changes are planned alongside other building work. Expert guidance helps clarify what may need to change, what can often stay as it is, and how early planning can reduce disruption.
Is now the right time to make the switch?
With support available through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, many homeowners are considering heat pumps earlier in their plans. Daikin experts explain what funding is available, how it works, and what it could mean for different types of projects. Visitors can also learn what support is available beyond the show, from guidance through to expert installation.
Do heat pumps need underfloor heating?
No. Underfloor heating can work very well with heat pumps, but it’s not a requirement. Radiators work very well with modern heat pump systems too. What matters is how the system is designed for the home. Radiator size, flow temperatures, insulation levels, and how rooms are used all play a role. With the right design approach, many homes can achieve comfortable, even heat without changing how rooms are heated.
How big does a heat pump need to be?
Heat pumps are sized based on the home’s heat loss, not on boiler output. This means looking at insulation, room sizes, layout, glazing, and how the home is used day-to-day. Getting the size right is essential. A correctly sized heat pump runs steadily and efficiently, rather than switching on and off. When a system is properly matched to the home, it can be incredibly cost-efficient to run and deliver more consistent comfort throughout the year.
Are heat pumps noisy?
Modern heat pumps are designed to operate quietly. Outdoor units typically produce sound levels similar to a quiet conversation, while indoor operation is no louder than a fridge and closer to a whisper. When positioned correctly, they blend into normal background noise around the home. Daikin designs its heat pumps with low-noise performance in mind across the range, so comfort is delivered without the system becoming a distraction.
How long does it take to install a heat pump?
Installation time depends on the home and the work involved. Some installations take only a few days, while others are planned as part of a wider renovation or new build. Radiator upgrades, hot water cylinders, and electrical work can all influence timescales. Many homeowners find that understanding what’s involved early helps installations fit more smoothly into the overall project.
How long does a heat pump last?
A well-designed and properly installed heat pump is built for long-term performance. Daikin heat pumps will operate reliably for 15 to 20 years or more with routine servicing. Longevity depends on correct sizing, quality components, and professional installation. With the right design and installation, long-term performance is something homeowners can feel confident about.
