How Much Does a 24-Hour Tape Cost?
Everything You Need to Know About At-Home Heart Monitoring
If you’ve been told you might need a “24-hour tape” or an “ambulatory ECG monitor” then you’re likely researching your cardiac monitoring options, you may have a few questions especially around how much it costs, where to get one, and whether you need a GP referral.
Below, we’ve answered the most common questions around 24-hour tapes, including how they work, how long you can wear one, and the benefits of using one.
How much does a 24-hour tape cost?
The cost of a 24-hour tape can vary depending on where and how you access it.
NHS: A 24-hour tape (Holter monitor) may be free if referred by your GP, but waiting times for testing and cardiologist analysis can be lengthy.
Private clinics: Prices can vary and usually start around £400, depending on the provider and whether a cardiologist’s report is included.
HeartTec Solutions (that’s us): We offer a 24-hour tape from £199, which includes a full cardiologist-reviewed report that can be sent to you and your GP.
Need a longer recording period? Our ECG Holter Monitors can record from 24-hours, up to 14 days.
Where can I get a 24-hour tape?
You can order a 24-hour tape online today and it will be delivered straight to your door. You’ll receive everything you need in the pack to get started, including:
- 24-hour tape – unless a longer monitoring period has been selected
- Electrodes – hypoallergenic options are available for more sensitive skin
- Fitting and recording instructions – it’s super easy and can be fitted yourself
- Skin preparation kit – everything you need to prepare for monitoring
- Pre-paid return instructions – you don’t pay for delivery, or returning the device
Concerned About Your Heart Health?
Our easy and accessible, ambulatory ECG monitoring allows you to assess your heart’s rhythm and electrical activity over a continuous period.
Get reliable data from the comfort of your own home with FREE nationwide delivery.
Do I need a GP referral for a 24-hour tape?
No, not always.
While a referral is usually required for NHS testing, you do not need a referral for private service such as HeartTec. This allows you to monitor symptoms sooner and share results with your GP or specialist if follow-up is needed.
Is a 24-hour tape the same as a Holter monitor?
Yes, they’re the same thing.
“24 hour tape” is the traditional NHS term, while Holter monitor is more widely used in private healthcare and internationally. Both refer to a small, wearable device that continuously records your heart’s electrical activity over a period of time – typically 24 hours, up to 14 days.
Can I wear a 24-hour tape at home?
Absolutely.
Our 24-hour tapes are small, discreet, and designed to be worn during your normal daily activities such as resting at home, working, and even during sleep. At HeartTec, all devices are worn at home, without needing a clinic visit. You simply post the device back after use.
What are the benefits of using a 24-hour tape?
A 24-hour tape offers a valuable window into your heart’s activity. Key benefits include:
- Captures real-world heart data during sleep, exercise, and daily life
- Helps detect irregular heart rhythms (like AFib or ectopic beats)
- Reviewed by a cardiologist, offering expert insight and peace of mind
- Non-invasive and easy to wear
- Can fast-track further testing or treatment if needed
For many, it’s the first step in getting clarity on symptoms like heart palpitations, dizziness, or fatigue.
Can you record for longer than 24 hours?
Yes, if your symptoms are infrequent or unpredictable, you may benefit from extended ECG monitoring.
At HeartTec, we offer 24, 48 or 72-hour ECG monitoring which are suitable for symptoms that are more frequent, or even daily. Our 7-day and 14-day monitoring is best suited to those with occasional symptoms.
Longer recordings can increase the chances of detecting irregular heart rhythms or palpitations that may not occur every day.
How accurate is a 24-hour tape for detecting heart issues?
A 24-hour tape is highly effective at detecting irregular heart rhythms and other electrical abnormalities that may not show up during a standard ECG. Because it records your heart continuously over a full day, it has a better chance of capturing intermittent symptoms like palpitations, skipped beats, or brief arrhythmias. However, if your symptoms don’t happen daily, you should consider a longer monitoring period to increase the chances of detection.
What kind of results will I get from a 24-hour tape?
Once the 24-hour recording is complete, the data is reviewed by a qualified cardiologist. You’ll receive a report that outlines your average heart rate, rhythm patterns, and any abnormalities spotted during the recording. These might include episodes of tachycardia (fast heartbeat), bradycardia (slow heartbeat), ectopic beats, or arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation. The results can be forwarded on to your GP and will help determine whether further investigation or treatment is needed.
When should I consider a 24-hour tape?
If you’re experiencing unusual heart symptoms, getting tested shouldn’t be complicated. A 24-hour tape is a safe, simple, and highly effective tool to monitor your heart and understand your symptoms.
What kind of results will I get from a 24-hour tape?
Once the 24-hour recording is complete, the data is reviewed by a qualified cardiologist. You’ll receive a report that outlines your average heart rate, rhythm patterns, and any abnormalities spotted during the recording. These might include episodes of tachycardia (fast heartbeat), bradycardia (slow heartbeat), ectopic beats, or arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation. The results can be forwarded on to your GP and will help determine whether further investigation or treatment is needed.
What’s the difference between a 24-hour tape and a 7-day tape?
A 24-hour tape records your heart’s activity for 1 day, while a 7-day tape monitors it for a full week. A 7-day tape is often recommended if your symptoms are less frequent or unpredictable, as it gives a better chance of capturing irregularities. Both tapes use the same type of ECG monitor, but a 7-day tape simply collects more data over a longer period, which can help with more accurate diagnosis.
For more information on heart health, try reading:
Understanding normal and abnormal heart rhythms or
Heart palpitations during menopause
