For many households, the biggest question about heat pumps isn’t whether they work, but whether they’re actually affordable. Heat pumps are often presented as one of the main alternatives to gas boilers, but the upfront cost can still feel like a barrier, particularly for homes that need extra work before installation.
In 2026, however, the picture is starting to change. Heat pumps are becoming cheaper because grants, smarter installation methods, improved efficiency and better-suited tariffs are all beginning to change the real cost of switching.
