If you’ve ever watched Grand Designs, there’s a chance you’ve already seen one of IMS Heat Pumps’ bespoke installations in action. With a track record that stretches back to 1997, IMS has established itself as one of the UK’s most experienced and versatile renewable heating specialists, delivering high-quality ground, air and water source heat pump systems across Scotland, the North of England and the Midlands.
From retrofit bungalows to off-grid woodland estates, IMS has built its reputation on robust system design, technical precision and a down-to-earth approach that balances engineering with homeowner needs.
Two bases, one mission
With offices in Perth and Dronfield, IMS Heat Pumps covers a wide geographical area but maintains a close-knit, expert team that works across residential and commercial projects. The business installs an average of 250 heat pump systems each year, from listed properties and new builds to ambitious self-builds and large-scale commercial sites.
In 2024, IMS joined the Hometree group of companies, an energy services brand with a bold mission to accelerate the UK’s transition to net zero by fixing, financing and installing home energy hardware. This partnership strengthens IMS’s offering while allowing them to remain true to their roots as hands-on heat pump specialists.
Key figures in the IMS team include Emma Bohan (Managing Director), Lee Brown (Operations Director), Suzanne Smith (Sales Director), Luke Begley (Installation Manager for England) and Arran Donald (Installation Manager for Scotland).
Demystifying heat pumps
One of the biggest challenges IMS faces isn’t installing heat pumps… it’s undoing the myths that surround them.
“There’s still a common misunderstanding that heat pumps can’t keep a home warm in chilly weather or provide enough hot water,” says the IMS team. “That simply isn’t true. When properly designed and installed, a heat pump system can absolutely deliver reliable heating and hot water (even in winter) in most types of property.”
Even those who’ve done some research are often unsure if a heat pump can reach the temperatures they need. “The key is having the right setup. With the correct cylinder and properly sized heat distribution system, a heat pump can comfortably meet the demands of most homes.”
Many of the misconceptions stem from second-hand horror stories – often linked to poor design or installation. IMS prioritises getting the design right from the start, ensuring realistic expectations and optimal system performance.
Another area of confusion is cost. “People sometimes focus only on the price of the heat pump itself, without factoring in essentials like upgraded radiators or the right hot water cylinder. These elements are crucial, and if they’re overlooked (or underestimated) it can lead to disappointment.”
And the age-old myth about heat pump noise? “Modern systems are incredibly quiet,” IMS assures. “Many of our customers are surprised at how little they notice the system running.”
Tailored technical solutions
IMS designs and installs air, ground, water source and hybrid systems, working with a carefully selected mix of high-performance brands. “We choose Vaillant, NIBE and Viessmann because they’re well engineered with excellent heating controls and remote monitoring,” they explain. “We also offer Samsung, Riello and Midea to give clients more choice, while being clear on the differences in quality and performance.”
They favour open-loop system designs and avoid unnecessary complexity. “We only include buffers when they’re genuinely needed, and we try to keep additional controls to a minimum. That usually leads to better reliability and usability.”
Commissioning is thorough, and every project includes a detailed handover and access to aftercare support. IMS also offers ongoing maintenance contracts, a two-year workmanship warranty, and manufacturer warranties of up to ten years.
Project highlights
One particularly memorable project was Stillwater, a new-build residence nestled in a secluded, off-grid site within a Victorian woodland estate near Harrogate. The installation was distinguished by its innovative use of an underground mine water stream as the primary renewable energy source. We designed and constructed a custom reservoir to house a Nuenta Energy Blade, harnessing the stable year-round temperature of the mine water to drive a 16kW NIBE S1155 ground source heat pump.
It was a bold and technically ambitious design that tested our capabilities, from managing flow rates and maximising collector efficiency to ensuring minimal visual and environmental impact on the surrounding landscape. The outcome was a high-performance, low-carbon heating system with a remarkable SCOP of 6.2, far surpassing the original estimates. The client was delighted, both with the system’s performance and the meticulous attention to detail throughout the process.
IMS Heat Pumps’ portfolio also includes a number of other standout projects. At South Barn in Matlock, an award-winning Vaillant retrofit seamlessly married heritage preservation with modern sustainability goals. Meanwhile, at the 16th-century Tixall Gatehouse, they installed a dual cascade of 18kW NIBE ground source heat pumps to meet the demands of a complex historical structure, while also mentoring apprentices through the Vaillant Low Carbon programme.
More recently, they completed the full renewable conversion of a luxury estate in Scotland, a project that demonstrated how scale and sustainability can coexist without compromise.
Whether working on a heritage home or a state-of-the-art new build, IMS approach each project with the same ethos: to design systems that are not only tailored to the property but optimised for long-term efficiency and reduced carbon impact. It’s this combination of precision, care and innovation that makes our work so consistently rewarding.
Trusted by homeowners
IMS customers consistently praise their transparency, technical knowledge, and follow-through. “IMS are heat pump engineers, not plumbers having a go,” said one homeowner. “They were honest about the challenges and worked through snags patiently. Our Vaillant system runs exactly as calculated. It’s whisper quiet, and our home is warm with plenty of hot water.”
Homeowners also appreciate IMS’s honesty around what’s needed for a successful system, from insulation and radiator upgrades to the importance of heat loss calculations.
Straightforward advice
So what’s IMS’s advice for anyone considering a heat pump? “Speak to real homeowners. We’re happy to introduce you to past customers, and many of our team members live with heat pumps themselves. You can even visit our offices… they’re heated by heat pumps too.”
Learn more
Whether you’re tackling a retrofit, planning a self-build, or developing a commercial site, IMS Heat Pumps delivers systems that work, without the drama and they are a trusted Renewable Heating Hub recommended installer. Contact IMS Heat Pumps if you’re looking for a quote by visiting their website or send an email to editor@renewableheatinghub.co.uk and we will connect you with their team.
