Nusku unveils external heat pump system with built-in hot water storage
UK – A new outdoor heat pump system integrating a hot water cylinder has been unveiled by UK startup Nusku, targeting some key barriers to domestic heat pump adoption.
The Bristol-based company presented its patent-pending concept at The Heat Pump Show, positioning the design as a faster, less disruptive alternative to conventional installations. By combining the heat pump and cylinder into a single external unit, the system removes the need for indoor cylinder space and reduces installation complexity.
Outdoor integration targets installation barriers
Nusku’s design relocates the hot water cylinder outside the property within the same unit as the heat pump, addressing internal space constraints in retrofit applications. The initial unit is designed as a 5kW, R290 system with an integrated 120-litre hot water tank, capable of providing 180 litres when blended to a 40°C outlet temperature, targeting typical two- and three-bedroom homes. The company states that installation could be completed in a few days, compared to around a week for typical systems requiring internal modifications, and that it will include integrated smart controls for remote monitoring and optimisation.
Trials underway ahead of launch
The system is currently in prototype phase, with trials taking place in homes in Bristol. Earlier testing was carried out at the University of Salford’s Energy House facility. Nusku is targeting a commercial launch in 2027, focusing on two- and three-bedroom homes and positioning the system as a direct replacement for gas boilers.
Russell Murchie, CEO and co-founder of Nusku, said the aim was to address multiple barriers to adoption.
Our design overcomes these issues, making it quicker and easier for people to replace gas boilers with a heat pump that meets their needs.
Russell Murchie, CEO and co-founder of Nusku
Company background and funding
Nusku was founded in 2022, with Murchie leaving Dyson after 17 years. The company now employs 16 people and operates from Future Space at the University of the West of England. It has secured £2.5 million in funding, including a £727,000 grant from the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero, alongside investment from Union Technical and Midsummer Energy. Co-founders Matthew Whitefoot and Andy McKay have backgrounds in energy, finance and early-stage business development.
