Heat pump vs gas boiler: why the future of home heating is electric
As part of Britain’s commitment to reach net zero by 2050, the government expects low-carbon alternatives – rather than traditional fossil fuels – to be our main way of heating homes in the future. Gas boilers are being phased out and greener options are growing in popularity, with the heat pump specifically offering a reliable, consistent heating alternative. But how do the two compare?
Heat pump vs gas boiler: what are the main differences?
Heat pumps are nothing new. In fact, you likely have one in your home already: everyday appliances such as fridges, freezers, and coffee machines use similar technology. And while heat pumps and gas boilers essentially do the same thing – supplying the energy needed for heating and hot water in homes – they work very differently.
- How a gas boiler works
System boilers have kept Britain warm for decades, burning gas (or oil) inside the boiler to heat water to be stored in your cylinder, radiators and/or underfloor heating to warm your home. Combi boilers warm your home in the same way, only these heat washing and bathing water on demand, sending it straight to where it’s needed.
- How a heat pump works
Unlike a gas boiler, heat pump systems don’t burn fuel to heat your home and water. Instead, they run on electricity. Using refrigeration technology, they take low temperature energy in the air or ground outside a property and convert this to a higher temperature energy. This energy is then transferred to the water in your radiators and/or underfloor heating to warm your home.
Heat pump vs gas boiler: which is easier to install?
Fitting a heat pump is more complex than a standard gas boiler installation. However, when specified and installed by a trained heat pump engineer certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), they’re straightforward. With trained and qualified installers, a heat pump’s specific requirements are no longer an issue.
A common concern about switching to a heat pump is the challenge of retrofitting older homes. Again, with proper design and planning by certified experts, even properties with poor insulation can benefit from low-carbon alternatives.
Heat pump vs gas boiler: which is more efficient?
Heat pumps can convert one kilowatt of electricity into between 3 and 4.5 kilowatts of heat output, making them 300% to 450% more energy efficient than gas boilers, especially when partially powered with self-generated electricity from solar panels on your home. For comparison, an A-rated combination gas boiler can only turn one kilowatt of gas into 0.9 kilowatts of heat, giving them an efficiency rate of 90%. In addition, ground source heat pumps offer more consistent heating all year round, since the collector pipe is not susceptible to changes in outside air temperatures. When properly designed, ground source heat pumps generally achieve efficiencies towards the higher end.
Naturally, efficiency can vary depending on insulation, outdoor temperatures, and system designs. To see how your home can benefit from a heat pump exactly, speak with us to find out your personal efficiency rating.
Heat pump vs gas boiler: which is cheaper?
While initial heat pump costs are higher than a gas boiler, their outstanding efficiency can dramatically reduce long-term energy bills. Further savings can be made if used in conjunction with solar panels to power your heat pump. To reduce initial costs, the government can support your switch to a low-carbon alternative with a £7,500 grant.
Heat pump installations hit a record number in the UK last year, with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) making heat pumps more accessible and affordable. As a BUS-approved installer, we can help our customers save thousands, all while ensuring the installation meets top-quality industry-recognised MCS standards.
Heat pump vs gas boiler: which is greener?
Gas boilers create heat from fossil fuels, which emit significant greenhouse gases. Since a heat pump uses cleaner electricity, it can dramatically help reduce your home’s carbon footprint. Research by the Committee on Climate Change highlights how air source heat pumps contribute to 90% lower regulated operational carbon emissions over 60 years for a home built in 2020, compared to an equivalent gas-heated home. Significant savings extend to commercial buildings, with a 30% reduction in emissions for air-conditioned offices and nearly 80% savings for naturally ventilated offices.
Heat pump vs. gas boiler: which lasts longer?
While modern gas boilers typically have a lifespan of around 10 years, a heat pump can supply your home for more than 20 years – but only if they’re well maintained. Air source heat pump units require regular cleaning, while ground source systems tend to have longer lifespans due to their protected underground components.
Once commissioned correctly and fully set up with room temperature controls and time periods, a heat pump can run automatically – similar to regular gas boiler controls. Another benefit of heat pumps is their efficiency when operated at a lower flow temperature, for a longer period. This greatly enhances the comfort of a home environment. Our installers always provide a clear, thorough handover, explaining how to use a heat pump in a way everyone can understand.
The future of heating Britain is not gas
Due to the UK’s carbon reduction commitments, gas boilers are not permitted in new houses from this year. And by 2035, gas boilers will no longer be allowed to be installed in homes altogether. The message is clear: the future of heating Britain’s homes is electric, with heat pumps leading the charge as the most sustainable and efficient alternative.
While there’s still progress to be made to reach the government target of 600,000 installations per year by 2028, incentives like the BUS are making low-carbon transitions more accessible. By switching to heat pumps, homeowners can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also futureproof their properties against rising energy costs and stricter environmental regulations.
At 21 Degrees, we’re helping lead this transformation by providing tailored, expertly installed heat pump systems. Whether you're considering making the switch to a heat pump, or would like to learn more, explore our certified heat pumps or get in touch to discuss your needs with a member of our team.
