The UK plumbing and heating sector is undergoing a significant transition. Heat pumps, low-temperature heating systems and increasingly energy-efficient buildings are changing not only how heating systems are designed, but also how installers approach pipework installation.
For plumbing and heating professionals, this creates an important question: are the tools being used on site keeping pace with the changing heating market?
Heat Pumps and the Changing Heating System
Heat pump deployment has increased significantly over recent years as the UK moves towards lower-carbon heating. Government statistics show that retrofit heat pump installations in 2025 were more than four-and-a-half times the level recorded in 2020.
This transition also creates opportunities for plumbing and heating engineers.
Unlike traditional high-temperature boiler systems, heat pumps typically operate with lower flow temperatures. Correct system design, pipe sizing, flow rates and installation quality therefore become particularly important.
Reliable pipe connections are a fundamental part of that installation.
Why Press-Fit Technology Fits the Transition
Press-fit systems have become an increasingly familiar sight across domestic, commercial and HVAC installations.
One of their major advantages is speed. Once pipework has been prepared correctly, a compatible fitting and press tool can create a secure joint in seconds.
There is also another major benefit: no hot works.
Removing the requirement for a flame during the jointing process can simplify installation, particularly within occupied buildings, schools, commercial properties, plant rooms and retrofit projects.
Press technology can therefore help installers create an efficient workflow while reducing many of the practical considerations associated with traditional hot-work processes.
Productivity Matters as the Market Grows
The UK’s transition towards low-carbon heating will require considerably more trained installers. The Government’s Warm Homes Plan estimates that approximately 12,000 full-time-equivalent heat pump installers could be required by 2030, compared with around 4,000 currently.
At the same time, the wider plumbing sector faces workforce pressures. This makes productivity increasingly important.
Professional press tools can help installers complete repetitive pipe connections quickly and consistently, allowing skilled engineers to concentrate their time on system design, commissioning and installation quality.
One Tool Platform, Multiple Applications
This is where the Z-Press professional press tool range becomes particularly relevant.
Z-Press provides installers with professional press technology designed for today’s plumbing, heating and building-services environment. With compatible jaw profiles and a growing range of tool options, installers can select equipment appropriate for different pipework systems and applications.
For merchants, this also represents an opportunity. As heating technology develops, installers increasingly need access not simply to fittings and pipe, but to the tools required to install complete systems effectively.
Supporting customers with press tools, compatible jaws, servicing and technical information can therefore become an increasingly important part of the merchant proposition.
Pressing Towards the Future
The transition to heat pumps will not happen overnight, and conventional heating systems will remain an important part of the UK market for many years.
What is changing is the requirement for efficient, professional and repeatable installation methods.
Whether working on a heat pump installation, low-temperature heating system, commercial plant room or conventional plumbing project, the principle remains the same: installers need equipment they can rely on.
As UK heating evolves, press-fit technology is well positioned to play an increasingly important role.
Z-Press – professional press technology for the next generation of plumbing and heating installations.