How to read your heat pump estimate before using the calculator
Where to find annual electricity, SCOP, heat demand, design heat loss and flow temperature on installer paperwork.
Not MCS-affiliated
Energy Future is independent. Not provided by, approved by or affiliated with MCS. Many installers use structured estimates; you can still pull figures from them into our Heat Pump Quote Reality Checker. That tool does not verify design or certify paperwork.
Annual electricity or running cost
Look for estimated annual electricity (kWh) for the heat pump, or annual running cost (£). If only cost is shown, note the unit rate so you can back-calculate kWh.
SCOP or SPF
Usually in a performance or product section. Check whether it covers space heat only or space heat plus hot water.
Heat demand
Space heating and hot water may be separate kWh per year. The checker lets you enter them separately or combined.
Design heat loss and kW size
Heat loss is often in kW at a design outdoor temperature (for example -3°C). Compare with quoted heat pump output (kW).
Flow temperature
May be per zone or one maximum (45°C, 55°C, etc.). Higher flow temps often mean lower SCOP unless emitters are upgraded.
Install price and grant
Total installed price, any grant line, loan if offered, and schedules for radiators, cylinder and electrics.
Tariff wording
Phrases like “based on [tariff name]” or a stated p/kWh. If a special tariff is assumed, tick that in the tool and run the standard-tariff stress test.
Often not on the estimate
Redecoration, uncapped provisional electrics, loan interest inside “annual saving”, or comparison with a new gas boiler. Ask for those if you need them for your decision.
Open the checker with your gas bill and estimate beside you.
Related guides
What a proper heat pump quote should include
One total price is not enough. You need design assumptions you can question line by line.
Read more →Heat pumps, solar panels, deposits and cancellation rights
Distance and off-premises home-energy contracts usually carry a 14-day cancellation right. A survey or system design does not automatically remove it.
Read more →COP and SCOP explained in plain English
They tell you how much heat you get per unit of electricity, for stated conditions you should ask about.
Read more →Why heat pump savings claims can be misleading
Headline savings are model outputs. The assumptions behind them are what you need in writing.
Read more →