Cheapest heat pump tariff in the UK: how to switch now

Heat pumps run mainly on electricity, so the “cheapest” tariff depends on your meter type, how your home uses heat, and when you can shift usage. Use our whole-of-market comparison to find a suitable tariff and switch with confidence.

  • Find tariffs that can suit heat pump households (single-rate and time-of-use where eligible)
  • See estimated running cost scenarios and common pitfalls before you switch
  • Switch online in minutes — we’ll highlight key terms like exit fees and smart meter requirements
Compare heat pump-friendly tariffs How to choose the right tariff

Estimates only. Tariff eligibility varies by supplier, region, meter type and credit checks. Always check rates, standing charges, contract length and exit fees before switching.

Fast answer: what’s the cheapest heat pump tariff in the UK?

There isn’t one universal “cheapest heat pump tariff” because heat pumps move most of your heating cost onto electricity. The cheapest option for you depends on:

Your meter & tariff options

Single-rate tariffs are the default. Some time-of-use deals may be cheaper if you have (or can get) a smart meter and can shift demand.

How your heat pump runs

Flow temperature, insulation, controls and usage patterns change consumption. “Cheapest” is about total annual cost, not just the unit rate.

Your region & payment method

Rates vary by distribution region, and prices can differ for Direct Debit vs other payment methods.

Key takeaway: For many heat pump homes, a competitive single-rate electricity tariff with a sensible standing charge is the safest starting point. A time-of-use tariff can be cheaper only if enough of your electricity use can move into the low-rate windows and you meet eligibility requirements (often a smart meter).

If you want the quickest “best bet”

Compare single-rate electricity deals first, then evaluate time-of-use if you have a smart meter and can schedule heating/hot water sensibly.

If you already have solar/battery/EV

You may benefit from tariffs that reward off-peak charging or export — but check interactions so you don’t increase the cost of daytime heat pump running.

Compare heat pump tariffs (whole of market) and switch

Use the form to start a quote. We’ll use your postcode and contact details to help you compare available domestic tariffs and guide you through switching. You’ll be able to review key details like contract length and any exit fees before you proceed.

Before you begin: If you’re on a fixed deal, check whether you have an exit fee. Ofgem rules typically allow switching without an exit fee in the last 49 days of a fixed contract, but terms can vary — always confirm with your supplier.

What we’ll ask (and why)

Postcode
To show tariffs for your electricity region (prices vary across Great Britain).
Email & phone
So we can send your results and help if there’s a question about eligibility (e.g., smart meter requirements).
Name
To prepare your switch request accurately.

Want to understand which tariff type to target first? Jump to how to choose a heat pump tariff.

Get your heat pump tariff quote

Start with the basics. You can refine tariff preferences after your initial quote.

Start your comparison

By submitting, you confirm this is for a UK home energy comparison. We’ll use your details to provide quotes and contact you about your comparison. You can opt out at any time.

Heat pump tip: If you’re considering a time-of-use tariff, note down whether you have a smart meter and whether your system can schedule hot water or pre-heat the home without affecting comfort.

How to choose the cheapest heat pump tariff for your home

Think of this as a simple decision tree. You’re aiming for the lowest total annual electricity cost while keeping your home warm and avoiding tariff traps.

Step 1: Start with your meter reality

If you don’t have a smart meter (or can’t get one fitted soon), you may have fewer time-of-use options. In that case, focus on the best-value single-rate tariff available in your region.

Step 2: Estimate how much electricity your heat pump uses

If you have a heat pump already, check your last 12 months’ electricity use (kWh). If you’re planning a heat pump, ask your installer for an estimate and compare it with similar homes.

Step 3: Decide if you can shift usage

Time-of-use tariffs can work if you can run hot water or raise the setpoint during cheaper hours without making the rest of the day more expensive.

Step 4: Compare standing charges and exit fees

A low unit rate can be offset by a high standing charge. Fixed tariffs may include exit fees — consider how long you plan to stay.

Reality check: If your heat pump runs most during cold evenings, a tariff with cheap overnight electricity might not help much unless your home can retain heat and your controls support pre-heating.

Two realistic cost scenarios (estimated)

Scenario A: Single-rate tariff (steady usage)

Assumptions (example): Great Britain domestic electricity. Annual usage 8,000 kWh (heat pump + household). Unit rate 26p/kWh. Standing charge 60p/day. No discounts. No export.

Electricity usage cost £2,080/yr
Standing charge £219/yr
Estimated total £2,299/yr

Illustration only. Your rates and usage will differ by supplier, region, home and weather.

Scenario B: Time-of-use tariff (some usage shifted)

Assumptions (example): Same annual usage 8,000 kWh. Off-peak unit rate 15p/kWh for scheduled hours, peak unit rate 30p/kWh otherwise. Standing charge 60p/day. You manage to shift 35% (2,800 kWh) to off-peak via hot water scheduling and limited pre-heating.

Off-peak usage cost (2,800 kWh) £420/yr
Peak usage cost (5,200 kWh) £1,560/yr
Standing charge £219/yr
Estimated total £2,199/yr

Time-of-use can be cheaper, but only if you can consistently shift enough demand and your tariff’s peak rate isn’t punitive.

What this means in practice

  • Don’t chase the lowest off-peak rate unless you’ve checked the peak rate and standing charge.
  • Heat pumps usually want steady operation. Aggressive on/off scheduling to “hit cheap hours” can reduce comfort and may increase overall energy use in some homes.
  • Regional prices matter. Always compare using your postcode and your payment method.

Tariff types compared (what suits heat pumps best)

This table helps you shortlist a tariff type before you compare actual offers. Exact rates and eligibility vary by supplier and region.

Tariff type Best for Watch-outs Typical requirements
Single-rate (standard) Most heat pump homes; predictable bills; minimal complexity Higher unit rate than off-peak deals; standing charge still matters Any standard meter; Direct Debit often gives best pricing
Fixed single-rate Households wanting price certainty for 12–24 months May include exit fees; can be less flexible if prices fall Credit checks may apply; check contract length
Time-of-use (smart) Homes able to shift hot water / some heating into cheaper windows Peak rates can be high; not all usage can shift in winter Often requires a smart meter; schedule-capable controls help
EV-focused / multi-rate EV owners who charge overnight and still want workable home heating costs Some deals trade cheap overnight for pricey daytime; check daytime heat pump impact Smart meter typically; sometimes EV verification or app use

Quick checklist: who it suits

  • Single-rate: you want simplicity and your heat pump runs throughout the day.
  • Time-of-use: you can schedule hot water and your home retains heat reasonably well.
  • Fixed: you plan to stay put and value price certainty.
  • Multi-rate/EV: you already have big off-peak loads (EV/battery) and you’ve checked daytime costs.

Quick checklist: who it may not suit

  • Time-of-use if you can’t get a smart meter or your heating demand is mostly peak-time.
  • Fixed if you may move home soon (exit fees can apply).
  • Very low unit-rate deals if the standing charge is high for your usage.
  • Complex tariffs if you don’t want to monitor time windows or apps.

Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (heat pump switching)

These are the issues that most often make a “cheap” heat pump tariff turn out not to be cheap.

1) Standing charge vs unit rate

A low unit rate can be cancelled out by a higher standing charge. This matters if your annual kWh is lower than expected (for example, in a well-insulated flat).

2) Smart meter requirements

Many time-of-use tariffs require a communicating smart meter. If your meter can’t be fitted quickly or has signal issues, you may not be eligible or may be moved to a different product.

3) Peak-rate exposure

Heat pumps often work hardest during cold spells that coincide with peak hours. If the peak rate is high, a small mistake in scheduling can increase costs.

4) Exit fees and contract length

Fixed tariffs can include exit fees. If you switch early (or move supplier unexpectedly), you may pay a charge per fuel.

Heat pump-specific caveat: Trying to “only heat during cheap hours” can reduce comfort and may increase consumption if it forces higher flow temperatures later. Many homes do best with steady, lower-temperature heating.

Other exclusions to watch for

  • Payment method pricing: Direct Debit is often cheaper than pay-on-receipt.
  • Regional variation: the same tariff name can have different rates by postcode.
  • Meter configuration: legacy multi-rate setups may limit tariff choice.
  • New builds/complex supplies: sometimes need extra admin steps to switch.

Simple pre-switch check (2 minutes)

  • Am I in a fixed deal, and is there an exit fee?
  • Do I have a smart meter (or can I get one)?
  • What’s my annual electricity usage (kWh) from bills?
  • Can I realistically shift hot water or pre-heat?
  • Have I compared standing charges as well as unit rates?

FAQs: cheapest heat pump tariffs and switching (UK)

Do energy suppliers offer dedicated “heat pump tariffs” in the UK?

Some suppliers market tariffs as suitable for low-carbon heating or smart usage, but most households will choose between standard single-rate and time-of-use products. Always check eligibility (smart meter, app usage, meter setup) and compare the total estimated annual cost.

Is a time-of-use tariff always cheaper for a heat pump?

No. It can be cheaper if you can shift a meaningful share of electricity into low-rate periods and the peak rate/standing charge aren’t too high. If most heating happens at peak times in winter, a strong single-rate deal may cost less overall.

Do I need a smart meter to get the cheapest heat pump tariff?

Not necessarily. Smart meters can unlock time-of-use tariffs, but the cheapest option for many households is still a competitive single-rate tariff. If you’re considering time-of-use, a smart meter is commonly required.

Will switching supplier affect my heat pump warranty or service?

Switching electricity supplier typically doesn’t affect a heat pump manufacturer warranty. Warranties usually depend on installation quality, servicing and system setup. If you’re unsure, check your installer/manufacturer documentation.

Can I switch if I’m in debt to my current supplier?

Possibly, but it depends on circumstances (including debt level and payment arrangements). If you have concerns, it’s worth checking guidance from consumer support organisations and speaking to your supplier before starting a switch.

What details should I compare besides price?

Compare: standing charge, unit rates (including peak/off-peak windows), contract length, exit fees, payment method, smart meter requirements, and how price changes are handled (fixed vs variable). For time-of-use, confirm exactly which hours are cheap.

Do I need to contact my current supplier to switch?

Usually no. The new supplier typically manages the switch, and your supply shouldn’t be interrupted. You should still check your current contract terms (including any exit fees) before proceeding.

I have solar panels — does that change the “cheapest” tariff?

It can. If you generate/export electricity, you may want to consider export rates as well as import prices. But don’t over-optimise for export if it makes your import (especially daytime) too expensive for heat pump running. Always model your typical seasonal usage.

Trust, methodology and sources

Page governance

How we assess “cheapest” for heat pump tariffs

We focus on the estimated annual electricity cost for a heat pump household rather than headline unit rates. Our editorial guidance prioritises:

  • Total cost: unit rates + standing charge
  • Eligibility: meter type, smart meter requirement, payment method, region
  • Practicality: whether a typical home can actually shift usage
  • Risk controls: exit fees, contract length, peak-rate exposure on time-of-use

Assumptions & limitations (important)

  • Scenarios use illustrative rates and typical standing charges for demonstration only.
  • We do not know your home’s heat loss, heat pump settings, or occupant comfort preferences.
  • Tariff availability and pricing can change quickly; always check supplier terms at sign-up.
  • Great Britain focus; switching rules and offers can differ in Northern Ireland.

We’re comparison-led, not promise-led. Any savings are estimated and depend on usage, the tariff you’re leaving, and how your heat pump is controlled.

Helpful UK sources

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Updated on 13 Apr 2026