Find an MCS-Certified Heat Pump Installer Near You
Choosing the right installer is the single most important decision you will make when getting a heat pump. A good installation means lower running costs, better comfort, and a system that lasts 20+ years. Here is how to find one.
Last updated: April 2026
Why MCS Certification Matters
MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) is the UK's quality standard for renewable energy installations. It is not optional; it is a requirement for claiming the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant. But beyond the grant, MCS certification gives you several important protections:
Competence verified
MCS installers must demonstrate competence in heat pump system design, installation, and commissioning. They are trained to conduct proper heat loss calculations (not just rules of thumb) and size systems correctly for your home.
Consumer protection
All MCS-certified installations are covered by an insurance-backed guarantee. If the installer goes out of business, your warranty is still honoured. MCS also provides a complaints and dispute resolution process.
Regular auditing
MCS-certified companies are audited annually to ensure they maintain standards. Poor-quality installers have their certification revoked. This ongoing accountability is something unaccredited installers do not provide.
Grant eligibility
Only MCS-certified installers can apply for the £7,500 BUS grant on your behalf. Without MCS certification, you lose access to the biggest financial incentive available for heat pumps.
How to Find an MCS-Certified Installer
There are several ways to find qualified heat pump installers in your area:
1. MCS Certified Installer Directory (Official)
The official MCS Certified installer search is the definitive source. Enter your postcode and select "Heat Pump" to see all certified installers near you. Each listing shows the company's certification number, technologies covered, and contact details.
Search MCS Directory2. Manufacturer installer finders
Major heat pump manufacturers maintain their own networks of approved installers who specialise in their products. These are typically experienced installers with brand-specific training:
- - Mitsubishi Electric (Ecodan range)
- - Daikin (Altherma range)
- - Vaillant (Arotherm range)
- - Kensa (ground source specialist)
3. Request quotes through our network
Use our free quote request form to receive quotes from up to 3 MCS-certified installers in your area. We only work with vetted, experienced installers who have a track record of quality installations.
What to Ask Your Installer (Checklist)
When meeting potential installers, use this checklist to evaluate their competence and suitability:
Before the Survey
- "Can you provide your MCS certification number?" (verify at mcscertified.com)
- "How many heat pump installations have you completed?" (look for 50+ minimum)
- "Can you provide references from similar properties to mine?"
- "Which brands do you install, and why?"
During the Survey
- "Will you do a full room-by-room heat loss calculation?" (essential, not optional)
- "What flow temperature will the system run at?" (lower is better; aim for 35-45 degrees)
- "Do any of my radiators need upgrading, and if so, which ones?"
- "Where do you propose to locate the outdoor unit, and why?"
- "Will the system include weather compensation?" (it should)
About the Quote
- "Does the quote include the £7,500 BUS grant deducted?"
- "What warranty do you offer on the installation labour?"
- "What is the manufacturer warranty on the heat pump unit?" (typically 5-10 years)
- "Is there anything not included in this quote that I should be aware of?"
- "What is your timeline for installation?" (good installers are typically 4-8 weeks out)
Red Flags: When to Walk Away
Not all installers are equal. Watch out for these warning signs:
- No room-by-room heat loss calculation - If an installer quotes without doing a detailed heat loss survey, they are guessing. An undersized system will not heat your home; an oversized system wastes money and runs inefficiently.
- Not MCS certified - No MCS means no BUS grant, no consumer protection, and no quality assurance. Always verify the MCS number independently.
- Pressure to sign immediately - "This price is only available today" tactics are a red flag. Reputable installers give you time to compare quotes.
- Significantly cheaper than all other quotes - If one quote is 40%+ cheaper, question what corners are being cut. It may mean an undersized system, cheap components, or a shorter warranty.
- Cannot explain the design - A good installer should be able to explain why they chose a specific heat pump size, flow temperature, and system configuration. If they cannot, they may not have designed it properly.
- Proposing high flow temperatures - If an installer suggests running the system at 55+ degrees without a clear reason, they may not understand heat pump design. Higher flow temperatures mean lower efficiency and higher running costs.
Average Installation Timeline
From first contact to a working heat pump, here is what a typical timeline looks like:
Week 1-2: Get quotes
Request quotes from 3+ MCS-certified installers. Each will arrange a site survey.
Week 2-4: Site surveys
Installers visit your property, conduct heat loss calculations, and assess radiators. Each will provide a detailed quote within a few days of the survey.
Week 4-5: Choose installer and confirm
Compare quotes, check references, and choose your installer. They will submit the BUS grant application to OFGEM (typically approved within 3-5 working days).
Week 6-12: Scheduling and installation
Most good installers have a 4-8 week wait. The installation itself takes 2-3 days for air source, 1-2 weeks for ground source. After installation, the system is commissioned and registered with MCS.
Post-installation: Handover and optimisation
Your installer should walk you through the system controls, set up weather compensation, and schedule a follow-up visit after 4-6 weeks to check performance and fine-tune settings.
Total time from first enquiry to heating: typically 8-14 weeks. Planning ahead during spring or summer means your system is ready for the next heating season, and you may benefit from off-peak scheduling and pricing.
What Should Installation Cost?
For a detailed cost breakdown, see our guides:
After Installation: Getting the Best from Your System
A heat pump operates differently from a gas boiler. Here are the key habits for maximum efficiency and comfort:
Keep it running steadily
Heat pumps work best when they maintain a steady temperature rather than cycling on and off. Set your thermostat to a consistent level (e.g., 20 degrees) and let the system manage itself. Avoid turning it off during the day and cranking it up in the evening.
Use weather compensation
Ensure your installer has activated weather compensation. This automatically adjusts the system output based on outdoor temperature, preventing the heat pump from overworking on mild days.
Keep flow temperatures low
The lower the flow temperature, the higher the efficiency. Aim for 35-45 degrees. If your home struggles to stay warm at low flow temperatures, it may indicate a need for better insulation or radiator upgrades, not higher flow temperatures.
Annual service
Schedule an annual service (£100-£200) to maintain efficiency and catch any issues early. Most manufacturers require annual servicing to maintain the warranty. A service includes checking refrigerant levels, cleaning filters, and verifying system performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does MCS certified mean?
How many quotes should I get for a heat pump?
How long does a heat pump installation take?
Can I install a heat pump myself?
Get Matched with MCS-Certified Installers
Tell us about your property and we will connect you with up to 3 MCS-certified heat pump installers in your area. Free, no-obligation quotes including the £7,500 BUS grant.