Updating Heating in an Old Home: Keeping the Warmth In Without Compromising Character

Older homes have charm, but they’re not always great at holding heat. Adding a heat pump can make a huge difference, but doing it right takes a little planning.

Installing Heat Pumps Without Ruining the Character

Heritage homes often have ornate ceilings, thick plaster walls, or exposed timber that you don’t want to mess with. The trick is choosing a unit that blends in. A Mitsubishi Electric floor console can sit discreetly under a window, and if you prefer something wall-mounted, picking a model with a sleek design—like the Black Diamond Series—helps it look less intrusive.

Outdoor unit placement is just as important. With older houses, hiding the external unit around the side of the house or near existing vents can help keep things tidy.

What About the Fireplace?

If your home still has an open fireplace, it might not be doing much more than sucking warm air up the chimney. Current regulations allow you to replace an old open fireplace with an approved, low-emission wood burner or convert it to a sealed gas fire. A heat pump is often the better choice for efficiency and ease of use, but if you love the look of a fireplace, it’s worth exploring modern insert options.

Insulation and Glazing Make All the Difference

Even the best heat pump won’t work well in a draughty home. Before upgrading your heating, check your insulation. Ceiling and underfloor insulation should be top priority, followed by wall insulation where possible. Double glazing (or even secondary glazing) cuts down on heat loss and makes a big impact on comfort. If full double glazing isn’t an option, thermal curtains and draught-stopping around windows and doors can help.

Other Ways to Keep Warm

Older homes can be notorious for cold floors. If yours has timber floors with gaps, rugs help trap warmth. Blocking unused fireplaces and sealing gaps around skirting boards also stops cold air sneaking in.

Get the Right Heating Setup

Every older home is different, and the best heating solution depends on layout, insulation, and personal preference. The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Chat with the team at Lanark for expert advice on heating upgrades. Whether you’re adding a heat pump, updating a fireplace, or sorting out insulation, we’ll help you get it right—without compromising your home’s character.