Your Questions Answered

Eligible participants will receive a £4,000 allowance towards installation, a free home survey, a no-obligation quotation and a free service of their hybrid heat pump after the first year of operation.

In return, participants will allow the Programme to monitor the performance of their new hybrid heat pump, including the carbon emissions saved, until 1 January 2029.

No.

A hybrid heat pump works well in wet and damp climates like Northern Ireland. The electric heat pump runs efficiently most of the year.
When temperatures drop very low (including below 5°C), your gas boiler automatically supports the system.
 
You won’t need to manually switch anything. Comfort levels are maintained even during freezing weather.
 
In short: you keep reliable gas backup when you need it most.

In most homes, existing radiators can remain in place.

Hybrid systems:

• Continue using your gas boiler during colder periods.
• Do not rely solely on low-temperature heating.
• Often require fewer radiator upgrades compared to full heat pump systems.

If any upgrades are needed, this will be identified during your free heat-loss survey before any commitment is made.

You’ll know exactly what’s required before proceeding.

Hybrid systems are designed to operate quietly.

• The outdoor heat pump unit produces a low background hum (similar to modern air conditioning).
• Indoor components are typically no louder than a standard boiler.
• Installations follow noise compliance guidelines.

For most households, the system blends into everyday background sound.

Hybrid systems are designed to optimise efficiency automatically.

• The smart controller selects the most cost-effective heating source.
• If electricity becomes less economical at certain times, the system can rely more on gas.
• This flexibility protects you from being fully dependent on one energy source.

You’re not locked into electricity-only heating.

Registering your interest does not commit you to installation.

If accepted into the programme:

• You can withdraw before installation without penalty.
• If you leave after installation or sell the property during the trial period, the Programme reserves the right to require repayment of some or all of the £4,000 grant contribution.
• Repayment terms will be set out in the installation agreement and may be calculated on a pro-rata basis.

Full details will be clearly explained before you proceed.

When accepted into the Gas Hybrid Heat Pump Allowance Programme:

Eligible participants will receive a £4,000 allowance towards installation, a free home survey, a no-obligation quotation and a free service of their hybrid heat pump after the first year of operation.

In return, participants will allow the Programme to monitor the performance of their new hybrid heat pump, including the carbon emissions saved, until 1 January 2029.

Your home will continue to feel warm and comfortable.

You might notice a difference in your radiators; this is because the water temperature is lower than what it would be with your traditional oil or gas boiler. Meaning they won't be roasting to touch as it's a lower water flow temperature. 

The system is controlled by a thermostat, so if you like your home at 18 degrees it will still be 18 degrees, it just takes longer to get there, as it's a low steady temperature instead of boosts of heat.  We also wouldn't recommend hanging clothes over the radiators.

Yes. Your hot water will continue to operate as normal.  

During the assessment, we will confirm how hot water is currently supplied and ensure the hybrid system integrates smoothly with your existing setup. Any changes (if required) will be clearly explained before installation.

There will be no unexpected changes to your daily routine.

At the end of the programme period, your heating system will remain in your home. 

The monitoring equipment will be disconnected from us, however if you want to keep monitoring this in dependably with Open Energy you can. 

Full details will be provided before installation so you can make an informed decision. 

Installation typically takes a 1-3 days, depending on your property.

Our team will provide a clear schedule in advance. Any temporary heating interruptions during installation will be explained beforehand, and disruption will be kept to a minimum.

Some minor disruption is expected during installation, as with any heating upgrade. 

An outdoor heat pump unit will be installed in a suitable external location, and some internal adjustments may be required. Our installers aim to complete work efficiently and respectfully within your home. 

All work areas will be left clean and tidy.

Placement is carefully assessed during your heatloss survey to ensure compliance with noise regulations and to minimise visual impact. You will be consulted on the proposed location before installation.

There is no cost or penalty if your home is not suitable. 

The survey and assessment are completely free and without obligation. If your property does not meet the programme criteria, you will simply be informed following the assessment.

Participants are required to remain in the programme until 1st January 2029. 

Yes. All equipment is installed by qualified engineers and complies with UK safety regulations. 

The hybrid system is designed to operate safely and efficiently, with automatic controls managing the balance between gas and electricity.

This is a controlled programme which is designed to gather accurate performance data across a representative range of homes. 

Limiting the number of participants ensures the programme can be carefully monitored and supported throughout.

Places are therefore limited.

Small monitoring devices are installed to the heat pump to measure system performance and energy usage.

These devices collect heating and energy data only. They do not record conversations, video, or personal activity. All data is handled in line with GDPR and anonymised for reporting.

Hybrid systems are specifically designed for climates where temperatures regularly fall low. The heat pump runs efficiently for most of the year, but when outdoor temperatures drop significantly, the system automatically brings in support from your existing gas boiler. 

There is no manual switching required. The system’s smart controls continuously monitor outdoor temperatures and adjust in real time to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. 

How It Works in Cold Weather

• The heat pump operates efficiently in mild to cool temperatures.
• During extreme cold (including below 5°C), the gas boiler provides additional support when needed. 

This ensures your home receives the heat it requires — even on the coldest days of the year. 

You keep the reassurance of gas support — without sacrificing efficiency.