Why a Heat Loss Survey Is Crucial Before Installing a Heat Pump?
- Liam Walsh

- May 17
- 3 min read
At Assembly Renewables, we believe every home deserves a heating system that’s efficient, reliable, and designed to perform all year round. That’s why we start every heat pump installation with a professional heat loss survey.
But what exactly is a heat loss survey — and why is it so important?
Let’s break it down.
What Is a Heat Loss Survey?
A heat loss survey is a detailed assessment of how much heat your home loses in cold conditions. It’s the essential first step in designing a heat pump system that’s tailored to your property — not just a one-size-fits-all guess.
Using specialist software, our surveyors calculate how much heat each room in your home needs to stay warm on the coldest days. That allows us to size the heat pump and radiators correctly, ensuring maximum efficiency, comfort, and reliability.
Why Is It So Important?
✅ 1. Get the Right Size Heat Pump
If the system is too small, your home won’t stay warm when you need it most. If it’s too big, the system will cycle on and off too frequently, reducing efficiency and increasing wear.
A proper survey ensures your system is just right, helping your heat pump run smoothly and economically for years to come.
✅ 2. Maximise Efficiency (and Save Money)
Heat pumps work best when matched precisely to the home’s heat demand. Accurate heat loss calculations help the system:
Run at lower flow temperatures
Reduce electricity use
Operate more quietly
This means lower energy bills, reduced carbon footprint, and a system that just works.
✅ 3. Comply with Regulations and Warranties
A heat loss survey is a requirement for MCS certification, which is needed to access grants like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. It’s also essential to meet Building Regulations and ensure your manufacturer warranty remains valid.
✅ 4. Guaranteed Comfort, Room by Room
We don’t guess. We measure. By knowing exactly how much heat each room needs, we can make sure there are no cold spots — just warm, cosy spaces across your whole home.
What’s Involved in a Heat Loss Survey?
Our Assembly Renewables Approved Surveyors visit your home to carry out a full inspection. Here’s what they’ll typically assess:
🏠 Room-by-Room Measurements
Internal dimensions of every room
Window and door sizes and glazing types
Wall, roof, and floor construction (including insulation levels)
🔥 Heat Demand and U-Values
We calculate how well your home retains heat, factoring in material types, ventilation, and air changes — especially important for older or draughty properties.
🌡️ Target Temperatures
Different rooms have different comfort levels — like 21°C in a living room vs. 18°C in a bedroom. We design accordingly.
🧰 Existing System Check
Radiator types, sizes, and condition
Pipework layout (single or double pipe system)
Boiler and hot water cylinder location
🧭 Equipment Planning
Best place for the heat pump outside
Where to locate the hot water cylinder
Routing for pipes and electrics
Any potential noise or planning concerns
We then use industry leading tools for the detailed calculations. It’s a blend of technology and expertise that ensures no detail is missed.
What Happens After the Survey?
Once the survey is complete, our in-house design team reviews all the data and finalises your bespoke heating system. You’ll then receive a confirmed quote, performance estimates, and a full breakdown of what your installation will involve.
Our Promise to You
At Assembly Renewables, we take the time to do things properly. A heat loss survey isn’t just a box-ticking exercise — it’s the foundation of a warm, efficient, and future-proof heating system.
If you're thinking about a heat pump, start with the professionals who know how to do it right.
What would you like to do now?




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