6 May 2025
5 minute read
Written by:
Regina Onorato
Content Designer
Heat pumps vs. gas boilers: Which is the right choice for you?
If you're a UK homeowner trying to decide between a new boiler or switching to a heat pump, you're not alone. With rising energy costs and the increasing need for sustainable solutions, choosing the right system is more important than ever. This article explores the key differences, costs, and environmental impact of heat pumps and boilers, to help you determine the best fit for your home.
What’s the difference between boilers and heat pumps?
A boiler burns gas or oil to heat water, which is then circulated through radiators or underfloor heating. It’s a familiar and widely used system, but it relies on fossil fuels and can be inefficient over time.
An air-to-water heat pump extracts heat from the air and transfers it into water for heating your home. Unlike boilers, heat pumps run on electricity and can be powered by renewable energy, making them more environmentally friendly. Read more about how heat pumps work.
What are the pros and cons of heat pumps vs. boilers?
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of how heat pumps and boilers stack up in key areas like cost, carbon emissions, and long-term efficiency. These differences help explain why more UK homeowners are considering heat pumps as an alternative to traditional gas systems.
| Factor | Boilers | The Aira heat pump |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | 80-90% | 300-500% (COP of 3-5) |
| Carbon emissions | High | Low to zero (if powered by renewables) |
| Costs | Lower upfront, but rising gas prices impact cost | Higher upfront, but lower operational costs |
| Installation | Quick and familiar | Requires assessment and possible retrofitting |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years | 20-25 years |
| Maintenance | Annual servicing required | Minimal maintenance |
Cost & running cost comparison
The cost difference between boilers and heat pumps extends beyond installation. While a gas boiler costs less upfront, its fuel expenses fluctuate with market prices often leading to higher running costs. In contrast, heat pumps, though pricier initially, save homeowners money in the long run with their high efficiency. To see how much it may cost to heat your home with a heat pump, check out our heat pump cost calculator.
- A typical gas boiler user spends £1,200 - £2,000 per year on energy.
- A typical heat pump user spends £700 - £1,500 per year, depending on electricity costs and home insulation.
- Government incentives, such as grants or tax credits, can significantly reduce heat pump installation expenses.
Cost & efficiency comparison between heat pumps and boilers
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how heat pumps and gas boilers compare in terms of upfront cost, installation time, running expenses, and environmental performance. These factors can significantly affect your total cost of ownership over time.
| Feature | Boilers | The Aira heat pump |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | £2,000 - £4,500 | £8,000 - £15,000 (before incentives) |
| Installation time | 1-2 days | 2-5 days (may require system upgrades) |
| Running cost | £1,200 - £2,000/year | £700 - £1,500/year (varies by electricity costs) |
| Efficiency (COP) | 85-90% | 300-500% |
| Environmental impact | High CO₂ emissions | Low carbon footprint |
| Energy source | Gas, oil | Electricity, can be powered by renewables |
UK grants and heating regulations – What you need to know
To accelerate the adoption of low-carbon heating systems, the UK government offers financial support and is phasing out fossil fuel heating in certain contexts:
- Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS): Homeowners in England and Wales can get up to £7,500 towards the cost of installing an air-to-water heat pump.
- Gas boiler phase-out: From 2025, newly built homes will no longer be allowed to install gas boilers, with heat pumps expected to become default.
- Energy Company Obligation (ECO4): Support for low-income households to improve home insulation and heating.
These initiatives make switching to a heat pump more affordable—especially if you're planning long-term energy upgrades.
Learn more about the boiler upgrade scheme or how Aira can help you with your heat pump grant.
Which system is best for different types of homes?
The best heating system for your home depends on several factors, including insulation levels, property type, available space, and how long you plan to live in the property. Here's a quick overview to help guide your decision:
| Home scenario | Recommended system | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Older, poorly insulated home | Gas boiler (or insulate first) | Heat pumps are less effective in draughty homes unless insulation is upgraded. |
| Well-insulated modern home | Heat pump | Efficient performance at low temperatures and long-term savings. |
| Home with solar panels | Heat pump | Can use your own renewable electricity for maximum savings. |
| Planning to sell or move soon | Gas boiler | Lower upfront cost and faster return on investment. |
| Long-term homeowner prioritising sustainability | Heat pump | Lower running costs and reduced carbon emissions over time. |
How does a heat pump replace a boiler?
A heat pump can directly replace a boiler, but certain adaptations may be required. Homes with underfloor heating or larger radiators benefit the most, as heat pumps operate at lower temperatures. A professional assessment ensures compatibility, and insulation improvements may be recommended to maximise efficiency.
Which system is more environmentally friendly?
Heat pumps are far more sustainable than boilers. Traditional boilers rely on fossil fuels, producing carbon emissions. A well-maintained heat pump, especially when powered by renewable electricity, can reduce a home’s carbon footprint by up to 75% compared to a gas boiler. Additionally, heat pumps integrate seamlessly with solar panels, further enhancing their green credentials.
Reliability & dependence
Performance in cold weather
Modern heat pumps perform efficiently even in colder climates with sub-zero temperatures. The Aira Heat Pump can efficiently heat your home in temperatures as low as -25℃. Gas boilers, on the other hand, provide consistent heat regardless of climate but rely on fossil fuel supply.
Servicing & parts availability
- Gas boilers need annual servicing and potential repairs due to combustion-related wear.
- Heat pumps require minimal maintenance, mainly involving filter cleaning and system checks.
Energy security
- Boilers are dependent on gas availability and market fluctuations.
- Heat pumps run on electricity, which can be sourced from the grid or renewable energy systems.
Conclusion
An air-to-water heat pump can be a great choice for homeowners seeking an eco-friendly and energy-efficient option to heat their homes. While traditional boilers are the more familiar option and often have lower installation costs, they are proven to be more expensive over time, while also being more harmful to the environment.
Whether you're ready to make the switch or just exploring your options, Aira can help. Get started by requesting your quote today – our team will carry out a free home energy assessment and guide you through your clean energy journey.
