With the UK’s push towards net-zero, the demand for skilled heat pump installers has never been greater. As the Government continues to offer financial incentives and increase installation targets, retraining as a heat pump installer is a fantastic opportunity to secure a future-proof career while contributing to a greener planet.
If you’re a heating engineer, tradesperson, or someone considering entering the industry, this guide will explain why now is the perfect time to start your training and how GTEC can help you succeed.
Why Become a Heat Pump Installer?
Heat pumps are central to the UK’s plan to decarbonise heating systems. Over 275,000 heat pump installations had been completed in the UK by the end of 2024, and the Government aims to install 600,000 per year by 2028. However, with only around 3,000 qualified heat pump installers currently operating, there’s a significant shortage of skilled professionals to meet demand.
This skills gap represents a lucrative opportunity for those in the trade. Certified heat pump installers can earn £7,000–£10,000 more annually than gas engineers, while also accessing steady, long-term work as homeowners and developers embrace low-carbon heating technologies.
What Do Heat Pump Installers Earn?
Heat pump installers enjoy competitive salaries compared to other trades. Here’s an approximate salary breakdown for 2025:
- Apprentices: £10,000 – £15,000
- Newly qualified installers (under supervision): £25,000 – £28,000
- Experienced installers: £28,000 – £34,000
- Managers or business owners: £40,000 – £65,000+
In contrast, gas engineers typically earn between £18,000 and £38,000 per year, and HVAC engineers between £20,000 and £35,000. For skilled professionals, specialising in heat pumps offers higher earning potential and greater job security as the demand for low-carbon heating increases.
How to Become a Heat Pump Installer
1. Assess Your Current Qualifications
If you’re already a qualified heating engineer, transitioning to heat pump installation can be straightforward. For newcomers, some foundational qualifications are required:
- Level 2 or Level 3 NVQ/SVQ in Plumbing, Heating & Ventilation, or equivalent qualifications.
- Gas Safety Certification, such as CCN1 (for working with boilers and wet heating systems).
- Relevant experience, ideally 2–3 years working with wet central heating systems.
If you meet these requirements, you can enrol in a recognised Level 3 Heat Pump Training Course, such as GTEC’s Air Source Heat Pump Training Course.
2. Enrol in an Approved Heat Pump Training Course
Heat pump installations must be MCS certified to access Government funding schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), gaining MCS accreditation will also help to build trust with customers.GTEC delivers LCL Awards heat pump qualifications which are recognised by MCS.
GTEC’s Air Source Heat Pump Training Course equips you with the knowledge and practical skills to design, install, and maintain heat pumps. The course is suitable for experienced professionals looking to upskill and those with the necessary foundational qualifications.
3. Explore Training Grants
To support the transition to renewable energy, the UK Government and some trade organisations offer grants to offset the cost of training. Eligible applicants can receive up to £500 towards heat pump training courses, reducing the financial barriers to entering this lucrative field.
4. Gain Practical Experience
Hands-on experience is invaluable when transitioning into heat pump installation. Many training programmes, including those offered by GTEC, include practical learning opportunities to help you gain confidence in real-world scenarios. For those new to the trade, apprenticeships such as the Low-Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship provide on-the-job training while earning a salary.
5. Expand Your Services with Advanced Training
Once you’ve completed basic air source heat pump training, you can further enhance your skills by taking advanced courses in ground source heat pumps or exploring related technologies, such as solar thermal systems. This additional expertise can boost your income and open up even more opportunities.
Why Invest in Heat Pump Training Now?
The heat pump market in the UK is experiencing exponential growth, driven by:
- Government incentives: The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers grants of up to £7,500 for air source and ground source heat pump installations.
- Rising targets: The Government plans to reach 600,000 installations annually by 2028, creating unprecedented demand for qualified installers.
- Legislation changes: Policies like the Future Homes Standard make heat pumps the preferred heating solution for new builds from 2025 onwards.
Over 39,000 qualified heat pump installers will be needed by the end of the decade to meet these targets. By investing in training now, you can position yourself ahead of the curve and secure long-term job security.
How GTEC Can Help
As a leading provider of renewable energy training in the UK, GTEC offers comprehensive courses designed to help you succeed in the growing heat pump industry.
The Air Source Heat Pump Training Course is ideal for heating engineers and tradespeople looking to expand their skill set. Delivered by industry experts, the course combines classroom learning with hands-on practical training, ensuring you leave with the confidence and knowledge to excel in your career.
Key benefits of training with GTEC include:
- Recognised qualifications that contribute to MCS accreditation.
- Access to Government funding and grants.
- Opportunities for practical, on-site experience.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to become a heat pump installer?
For experienced heating engineers, training typically takes 2–4 weeks. For newcomers, apprenticeships may last 12–18 months.
2. Do I need to be MCS certified?
Heat pump installations must be MCS certified to access government funding schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). You can do this by either becoming MCS accredited or using an Umbrella Scheme, whereby a heat pump manufacturer or other independent organisation completes the MCS certification part on your behalf.
Businesses are MCS accredited rather than individuals, so if you’re an employee you won’t necessarily need to join MCS.
3. Is funding available for heat pump training?
Yes, grants of up to £500 are available for eligible applicants. GTEC can advise you on funding options during the course application process.
4. Are heat pump installers in demand?
Absolutely. With just 3,000 qualified installers and targets of 600,000 installations per year by 2028, demand is expected to skyrocket.
5. Can I train in ground source heat pumps?
Yes. After completing air source heat pump training, you can advance to ground source heat pump courses to further expand your expertise.
