Can a Heat Pump Work with Traditional Radiators? May 09, 2025 Heat pumps are quickly becoming one of the UK’s most popular low-carbon heating options, but many homeowners worry about whether they’ll work with their existing radiators. If you’re thinking of switching to a heat pump but don’t want to rip out your entire heating system, this blog explains what you need to know about pairing a heat pump with traditional radiators. Can a Heat Pump Work with Traditional Radiators? Yes, But With Considerations Heat pumps can work with traditional radiators, but performance depends on several factors—most importantly, the size and heat output of your current radiators. Heat pumps run at much lower temperatures than conventional gas or oil boilers, so to deliver the same level of warmth, your radiators may need to be larger or more efficient. How Heat Pumps Differ from Boilers Traditional boilers heat water to temperatures of 70–80°C, whereas heat pumps typically operate between 35–55°C. This lower flow temperature means your system must be carefully balanced to maintain comfort throughout your home. Radiators that worked well with a boiler might not be able to output enough heat at lower temperatures without adjustment. That’s why a professional heat loss calculation and radiator sizing check are crucial during the installation process. Will You Need New Radiators? Not always. In well-insulated homes or properties with generously sized radiators, your existing setup may be suitable. However, if your rooms lose heat quickly or your radiators are undersized, some upgrades may be needed to ensure comfort, especially in colder months. Aluminium or steel panel radiators often work better with heat pumps than older single-panel models. In some cases, you may only need to upgrade radiators in certain rooms rather than replacing the whole system. Other Key Compatibility Factors Insulation: The better insulated your home is, the more effective a heat pump will be with your current radiators. Pipework: In most cases, existing pipework can remain in place unless it's severely restricted or corroded. Flow rate and balancing: Your installer will ensure the system is properly balanced for efficient heat distribution across all radiators. Installing a Heat Pump in Southampton, Portsmouth or Across Hampshire? Clean Heating Solutions specialises in seamless heat pump installations that work with your existing heating system, whether that means reusing your radiators or upgrading where needed. If you’re based in Southampton, Portsmouth or anywhere in Hampshire, we’ll assess your home and recommend the best setup for comfort and efficiency. Contact us today to arrange a consultation or request a tailored quote.