- Area
- Highlands and Islands
- Postcode district
- KW15
- Nation
- Scotland
Kirkwall is in the Highlands and Islands. Whether you are replacing a gas, oil or electric system, the design starts with measuring how much heat each room loses on a cold day, and survey arrangements for Kirkwall are confirmed when you enquire.
Heat pump services in Kirkwall
All services in Kirkwall:
Grants and rules for heat pumps in Scotland
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme does not apply in Scotland. Instead, homeowners in Kirkwall can apply to Home Energy Scotland for a grant of up to £7,500 towards a heat pump, with up to £1,500 more for eligible rural and island homes, plus an optional interest-free loan of up to £7,500. You need a written funding offer before any work starts.
There is no VAT on installing a heat pump anywhere in the UK, Scotland included, until 31 March 2027. Scottish permitted development rules and building standards apply, and the surveyor checks the unit position and any listed or conservation-area constraints.
Heat pump guide prices in Kirkwall
Here are typical prices for an air source heat pump in the Highlands and Islands, installed and including VAT. Use the guide price tool for a figure based on your home, then a survey confirms it in writing.
| Home | Typical size | Installed guide price |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2 bedroom flat or small terrace | 4–5 kW | £10,650–£14,000 |
| 2–3 bedroom terrace or semi | 5–7 kW | £11,750–£15,100 |
| 3 bedroom semi or small detached | 6–9 kW | £13,450–£17,350 |
| 4 bedroom detached | 8–12 kW | £15,700–£20,150 |
| 5+ bedroom or larger older house | 11–16 kW | £18,500–£25,200 |
Installed, inc VAT: unit, cylinder, controls, minor pipework and commissioning. In Scotland, Home Energy Scotland grants of up to £7,500 and interest-free loans may reduce the cost.
Short winter days in Kirkwall and what they mean
Kirkwall has about 6 hours 11 minutes of daylight at midwinter against 18 hours 30 minutes in midsummer. Heat pumps are designed to keep working well below freezing, but the design temperature for the survey is set for local conditions, not an average day.
Heat pumps in Kirkwall: questions
What size heat pump does a Kirkwall home need?
It depends on the heat loss, not the postcode. As a rough guide, a 3 bedroom semi often needs 6–9 kW, but the room-by-room survey sets the actual size for your Kirkwall home.
Can you service a heat pump in Kirkwall that someone else installed?
Yes. We arrange servicing and repairs for most air source heat pumps in Kirkwall, whoever fitted them. Tell us the make and model when you book.
How long does a heat pump survey take in Kirkwall?
A home survey in Kirkwall usually takes one to two hours. The surveyor measures every heated room, checks windows, walls and radiators, and looks at where the outdoor unit and cylinder can go.
How long does installation take in Kirkwall?
Most installations take 2–4 days on site. Jobs with several radiator changes or new pipework take longer, and your quote for a Kirkwall home states the expected time.