Commissioning is probably the most critical stage of a heat pump installation, yet it’s often rushed or overlooked. This clear, jargon-free checklist has been created to help you ask the right questions at handover and ensure your system has been set up correctly from day one.
Whether you’re a first-time heat pump owner or just want to double-check that nothing’s been missed, this guide empowers you to take control of your installation. It’s based on best-practice standards and what we’ve learned from real homeowners across the UK.
Your comfort, your money, your home… make sure it all works as it should!
This checklist will help you make sure your heat pump installation has been properly commissioned and handed over. Don’t be afraid to ask your installer to walk through these items with you — it’s your home and your investment.
General System Setup
- Installer confirmed and explained the make, model and size (kW output) of the installed heat pump.
- Heat loss calculation was carried out and shared with me.
- Installer explained how the system was designed (e.g. for what flow temperature and emitter sizes).
- Room-by-room heat demand was checked and matched to emitter output.
- System has been balanced (not just installed).
- I received a full commissioning report (paper or PDF).
Flow Rate and Delta T
- Flow rate was measured and recorded in the commissioning documentation.
- Installer explained the target flow rate for my system (in litres per minute).
- Delta T (difference between flow and return temps) was checked.
- Installer explained pump settings and whether it’s running in constant head, proportional pressure, or auto mode.
- Installer showed that all zones/rooms were open when testing flow rates.
Controls and Settings
- I know how to use the main controller or thermostat.
- Weather compensation is enabled and explained (or load compensation, if applicable).
- Installer showed me how to adjust heating schedules sensibly (if needed).
- Installer explained that the system is most efficient when maintaining a constant room temperature rather than using large temperature setbacks or switching the system on and off.
- Installer explained hot water scheduling and cylinder heat-up times.
Defrost Cycle & System Volume
- Installer confirmed the system meets minimum water volume requirements.
- Installer explained how the system handles defrost cycles.
- If a buffer tank or volumiser was installed, its purpose was explained.
- Installer showed how defrosting works (or confirmed it was observed during commissioning).
- No unusual drops in temperature were experienced during defrost cycles.
Radiators & Emitters
- Installer confirmed radiator sizes were upgraded where necessary.
- Radiators were warm and evenly heating during commissioning.
- All TRVs are suitable for heat pump use and were checked for function.
- Installer showed how to bleed radiators and explained who should do it in future.
Documentation
- I was given a completed commissioning report.
- I received all user manuals (for the heat pump, controller, and cylinder if applicable).
- I received the warranty documents and know who to contact in case of issues.
- I was told about the warranty conditions (e.g. annual servicing requirements).
- I received a basic handover guide in plain English (or will receive one digitally).
Installer Details & Support
- I know how to contact my installer if anything goes wrong.
- Installer explained if remote monitoring is available and who monitors it.
- Installer confirmed whether they or someone else will handle servicing.
- I know when my first annual service is due and what it should include.
Aftercare & Next Steps
- I’ve been told what kind of maintenance I should do as a homeowner (cleaning filters, keeping the outdoor unit clear, etc).
- I was told how to report issues and what to look out for.
- I’ve been told how to check my smart meter or energy use to monitor running costs.
- I’ve been given advice on seasonal use (what to do in spring/summer).
A properly commissioned system will perform better, last longer, and save you money. Keep this checklist handy for future reference or share it with your installer if anything is unclear.
