With the heat pump market expanding there are growing opportunities for heating engineers. James Hodgson, National Training Manager for Ariston, explores how heating engineers can upskill and examines the benefits of doing so.
The heating industry is in the middle of one of the biggest and quickest transformations it has seen in decades. As governments, businesses and households race to hit net-zero targets and cut carbon emissions, traditional gas systems are steadily giving way to heat pumps, hybrid systems and other low-carbon alternatives.
For heating engineers and installers, this shift can signal a huge opportunity as customers increasingly look for installers they can trust to deliver energy-efficient systems that meet modern standards. So how can installers upskill and what are the wider benefits of doing so?
The Upsides of Upskilling
One of the biggest benefits to upskilling is a future-proof career. As gas boilers are phased out and bans on new fossil fuel heating are already planned, upskilling in heat pump technology keeps skills relevant – and careers secure – as the industry evolves.
According to data from MCS, there were 44,564 MCS certified installations of air source heat pumps across the UK between January – September 2025, up 9% compared to the same period in 2024. This growing interest can in large part be attributed to initiatives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which provides funding when replacing a gas boiler with renewables like heat pumps.
Currently, the UK remains legally bound to reach its net zero target by 2050, which means the uptake and installation of renewable technologies such as heat pumps is only going to increase further. With this in mind, engineers who can install these renewable technologies will remain in demand long after traditional heating skills have become less relevant.
Installers who upskill early and demonstrate their certified expertise could command premium rates for their abilities later down the line, especially in a market where the widening skills gap remains a crisis. This in turn could translate to larger contracts, repeat business and access to higher-value projects.
Training requirements
As the front line of delivering low-carbon heating installations, heating engineers have a responsibility of helping customers choose the right solution, so it is important they are well-versed in delivering this type of work and answering any questions the homeowner might have.
It is advised that qualified gas engineers attend training with a heat pump manufacturer, such as Ariston, to ensure they are well equipped with the knowledge required to successfully install the technology.
Manufacturer training, such as that offered by Ariston at its training centres across the UK and Ireland, often covers a mix of theory and practical work, closely examining the key differences that heating engineers need to be aware of between a typical gas boiler and heat pump system. This will include proper system design, the importance of heat loss calculations, and how to correctly commission and maintain the unit.
Many heat pump installers also choose to obtain MCS certification, as this unlocks a number of benefits. This can help them stand out in a competitive market, elevate their business and boost their reputation.
As with any long-term investment, heat pump installation can be costly, so homeowners looking to make significant investments in upgrading their heating systems will be more likely to choose a certified installer that not only meets industry standards and regulations but will get things done right the first time.
Additionally, government-backed incentives and grant schemes – such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme – also require installations to be carried out by a certified professional, meaning those without the appropriate accreditation risk excluding themselves from a rapidly growing segment of the market.
Seizing the opportunity
With the transition to low-carbon heating already underway, the heating industry is changing fast and significant opportunities are being created. By upskilling and gaining the relevant certification, professionals are not only securing their futures but also giving themselves a competitive edge in a time when demand for expertise is outpacing supply.
It also allows heating engineers and installers to contribute directly in the transition to net zero. For those who are passionate about tackling climate change and environmental conservation, upskilling into low-carbon heating systems means they can be part of the change as we transition into a more sustainable world.
The need for trusted professionals who can deliver efficient, sustainable heating solutions is fast-growing and for those ready to adapt, Ariston looks forward to helping installers boost their professional development and become part of the skilled workforce leading the way to a cleaner, greener future.
Image: Ariston
