Isn't heat pump training for plumbers and heating engineers?
After transport, buildings are the second highest source of carbon emissions in the UK. The previous Conservative-led UK government set a target of 600,000 heat pump installations a year by 2028 to reach net zero by 2050.
According to the Heat Pump Association, the UK will need nearly 38,000 qualified heat-pump installers by 2050 to reach this goal. Although the number of people who have completed training to become qualified heat pump installers increased from just under 3,000 in 2022 to close to 8,000 in 2023, there’s still a significant skills gap.
That means there’s still plenty of opportunity for anyone willing to invest in training to build and develop their business in this area.
What do I need to get started with heat pump training?
Before jumping into heat pump-specific training, you'll need a solid foundation. Most courses require at least one of the following:
Level 2/3 NVQ or SVQ in plumbing, heating and ventilation, gas, or oil installation and maintenance
Valid Core Domestic Gas Safety (CCN1) certificate
OFTEC oil certificate
Valid HETAS certificate (for wet systems)
MCS registration for solar thermal or heat pumps
Or suitable and evidenced heating industry experience
You'll also need a Water Regulations (WRAS) certificate unless it's already covered in your NVQ.
If you have suitable and evidenced heating industry experience on your CV this can also be used as an alternative to do an air-source heat pump qualification. The training centre and certification provider will determine what counts as suitable evidence.
Heat pump training options
Most professionals start by training to install air-source heat pumps as these are simpler and cheaper to install. Air-source heat pumps transfer heat from the outside air to water., which, in turn powers underfloor heating and radiators around the home.
Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) training
Courses usually last about 3 days and cover:
How heat pump systems work
Installation regulations and best practices
Health and safety considerations
System design and sizing
Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) training
Once you're qualified for ASHPs, you can progress to GSHP training. These courses are usually 2 days long and cover additional topics like:
Ground source circuit design
Collector types
Groundworks considerations
Do you need certification to install heat pumps in the UK?
While it's not currently a legal requirement to be certified to install heat pumps in the UK, getting accredited ensures installations are done safely and efficiently, increasing customer satisfaction and reducing the risk of errors. Accreditation can boost your credibility and open up more opportunities.
Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) for heat pumps
The MCS is an industry-led scheme that certifies the quality and reliability of products and installation companies. Being MCS certified demonstrates to customers that you meet industry standards, providing assurance and access to government funding.
Entry requirements
NVQ/SVQ Level 2/3 in relevant fields such as Plumbing, Heating and Ventilating, Oil-Fired Technical Services, or Gas Installation and Maintenance.
Alternatively, three years of experience in installing wet central heating systems, evidenced by manufacturer courses certification or registrations such as Gas Safe, OFTEC, MCS, or HETAS.
Courses required
Water Regulations Certificate (WRAS)
Level 3 Award in Low Temperature Heating and Hot Water Systems in Dwellings
Level 3 Award RQF in Installation and Maintenance of Air Source Heat Pump Systems
Air-source heat pump qualifications
Focusing initially on air-to-water heat pumps, these courses cover the basics of how these systems work, where to install them, and safety regulations.
Entry requirements
NVQ/SVQ Level 2/3 in Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation, Gas, or Oil
Core Domestic Gas Safety (CCN1) certificate with CENWAT
OFTEC Oil Certificate
Valid HETAS certificate for wet systems
CPS or MCS registration for relevant systems
Course content
Heat pump system operations
Installation locations and regulations
Health and safety assessments
Design considerations
Testing and installation tips
Ground-source heat pump qualifications
Ground-source heat pump qualifications
Building on air-source qualifications, ground-source heat pump courses delve into specific topics like circuit design, component sizing, and pre-installation requirements.
Entry requirement:
Same as air-source heat pump courses with additional focus on the principles of ground-source heat pump design and operation.
The benefits of becoming a certified heat-pump installer
Professional credibility: Relevant certification demonstrates your expertise and commitment to quality, boosting customer confidence.
Expand your skills: Enhances your knowledge and skills, making you a more versatile and valuable professional.
Improved business opportunities: With additional skills as part of your toolkit you have a higher chance of winning contracts and growing your business.
Funding for heat-pump installation training
The government offers a Heat Training Grant that can provide up to £500 towards the cost of heat-pump installation training. Some manufacturers also offer additional discounts or free courses to help you take advantage of this grant.
Electrical considerations for heat pump installations
As an electrician, you need to pay special attention to:
Electrical supply: Ensure the property's electrical supply meets the heat pump's requirements.
Cable sizing: Don't confuse the heat pump's kW heating capacity with its electrical consumption. Always check the manufacturer's specifications for the correct nominal current rating.
Circuit protection: Heat pumps may require specific types of circuit breakers (e.g., Type C or D) to handle start-up currents.
Maximum demand: Assess the property's maximum electrical demand to ensure the existing installation can handle the additional load.
Earthing and bonding: Verify that the existing arrangements are adequate for the new installation.
Remember, if you're making significant changes to a property's electrical installation, you may need to notify your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) and comply with Building Regulations.
Why get into heat-pump installation?
Expanding into heat pump installation can be a great way to future-proof your business. While the initial investment in training and certification might seem daunting, the long-term benefits in terms of new business opportunities and staying ahead of industry changes can be substantial.
Customers will increasingly be looking for quality heat pump installations and the overall success of heat pump adoption is crucial to the UK’s carbon reduction targets. By getting proper training and certification, you're contributing to a greener future for all.
Helping you stay up to date
The heat pump industry is evolving rapidly, and we’re here to help you stay up to date with the latest innovations in sustainable technology. Our Renewables experts can help with advice, training, and product specification. Get in touch with us today.