How to Install Heat Pump: Step-by-Step Simpe Guide

The heat pump is a popular HVAC system that doesn’t generate heat but instead moves thermal energy from the air. Installing a heat pump is one of the most energy-efficient ways to heat, cool, and provide hot water for your home. It’s a great way to save on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

Whether you’re replacing an old HVAC system or adding a new one, understanding the installation process will help ensure optimal performance and minimize potential problems. This guide will break down the necessary steps to install a heat pump system.

Step 1: Assess Your Home’s Heating and Cooling Needs

Before installing the heat pump, you need to determine whether the heat pump is suitable for installation in your house, the type of heat pump, and the size. This step requires a licensed HVAC technician to assess your home’s:

• Building area
• Install a heat pump space
• Insulation level
• Climate conditions
• Existing HVAC system
• Existing ductwork or piping (if applicable)

This ensures you choose the right size and type of heat pump—air source, ground source, or ductless mini-split.

Step 2: Choose the Right Heat Pump System

There are three types of heat pumps:

• Air Source Heat Pumps – Suitable for most homes and climates.
• Ground Source Heat Pumps (Geothermal) – More efficient but more expensive to install.
• Ductless Mini-Split Systems – Ideal for homes without ductwork or for zoned heating and cooling.

Your installer will recommend the best option based on your home’s design and local energy efficiency standards.

Step 3: Check Whether You Can Get Government Grants and Subsidies

Purchasing and installing a heat pump is a significant upfront cost. You may be able to get government subsidies and grants depending on where you live and your situation.

Most European countries currently offer financial support for heat pumps:

• Direct grants
• Tax credits
• Low-interest loans
• Energy investment programs

It can help promote the installation of heat pump systems in residential and commercial properties. Consult your local energy agency or national heat pump association for application guidelines and eligibility details.

Step 3: Plan the Installation Area

Generally, a heat pump consists of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The indoor unit may include one hydraulic module, one buffer tank, and one domestic water tank.

For the outdoor unit:

• You will need a level surface (concrete pads or wall brackets) behind or to the side of your house that is higher than the snow. The maximum size of an outdoor unit is approximately 2m x 1m.
• Ensure enough space and airflow clearance around the unit.
• Install electrical connections and pipe according to local regulations.

For the indoor unit:

• Select a location free of obstructions.
• Consider drainage and electrical access.
• It can be installed tightly in one space.

Step 4: Upgrade Your Home for Heat Pump Compatibility

Before installing your heat pump, it’s wise to optimize your home for energy efficiency and heat retention:

• Improve insulation in walls, attic, and floors
• Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and ducts
• Update windows to double- or triple-glazed if needed
• Ensure the electrical infrastructure can handle the new load

These upgrades help your heat pump work more efficiently and reduce running costs.

Step 5: Install the Heat Pump System

Now comes the actual installation. Your HVAC technician will visit your home to begin the process, which may take around five days, depending on the specific situation.

For geothermal heat pumps, this involves digging trenches or drilling to install underground loops. These loops absorb heat from the ground in winter and release heat underground in summer. Depending on your property, the technician will choose either a vertical or horizontal loop layout.

For air-source heat pumps, the technician will install indoor and outdoor units. The outdoor unit is placed on a level base using rubber feet or mounted on the wall (after inspection). A hot water cylinder, buffer tank will be installed indoors and connected to your home’s plumbing system.

Step 6: Connect the System Components

Once the units are in place, the technician will:

• Connect refrigerant lines, drainage pipes, and electrical wiring between indoor and outdoor units.
• Modify or upgrade piping or radiators if needed.
• Link the system to your home’s electrical supply and central heating system, such as radiators, underfloor heating and fan coil units.

This step ensures the heat pump is ready to operate smoothly and safely.

Step 7: Install Controls and Perform System Check

• A thermostat or smart controller is installed to manage temperature settings and operating modes.
• The technician then:
  • Tests heating and cooling cycles
  • Checks refrigerant pressure and water flow
  • Ensures the system is running safely and efficiently

Everything is checked against manufacturer specifications to ensure it’s working properly.

Step 8: User Training and Safety Features

Once installation and testing are complete, the technician will:

• Show you how to use your heat pump system.
• Explain the controller settings, including heating, cooling, and hot water modes.
• Provide user manuals, warranty information, and maintenance tips.
• Set up maintenance reminders and filter replacement guidance

If you’re using a JNOD heat pump, the technician will also explain the Legionella sterilization cycle, which automatically heats water to 60°C during early morning hours. You can set this sterilization time from 30 minutes to 2 hours for safe and clean hot water.

Summary

Installing a heat pump is an effective way to achieve energy-efficient heating, cooling, and hot water in your home. This guide walks you through the entire installation process—from assessing your home’s needs and choosing the right system, to preparing your house for better efficiency, installing the unit, and final system checks. Whether opting for an air-source or geothermal model, working with a qualified HVAC technician ensures safe, compliant, and optimized performance. Proper setup, including smart controls and user training, guarantees long-term comfort and savings.