If you’re a homeowner looking to upgrade your heating system, you’ve probably heard a lot about heat pumps. But how do they stack up against the traditional gas boiler? Let Energy Grant Finder break it down in simple terms – no jargon, just the facts – to help you make the best choice for your home and budget.
A Quick Look Back: The Rise of the Gas Boiler
Gas boilers have been heating UK homes since the mid-20th century. After World War II, coal was gradually phased out and replaced by cleaner-burning natural gas. In the 1960s, the UK government launched the “Natural Gas Conversion Programme” – a nationwide switch that laid the foundation for modern central heating systems powered by gas boilers.
By the 1980s and 1990s, gas boilers had become the go-to heating solution thanks to their efficiency, reliability, and relatively low running costs.
Fun Fact – London is often referred to as “The Big Smoke”, this is because of the vast amounts of coal used for heating which when mixed with a damp climate creates a cloud of heavy thick smoke that fills the streets, also called ‘pea soup!’
But times have changed. With climate concerns and rising gas prices, the UK is now looking at greener alternatives – and that’s where heat pumps come in.
What Is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is a low-carbon heating system that works a bit like a fridge, but in reverse. It takes heat from the air (or ground) outside your home and uses it to warm your home and water.
There are two main types:
- Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) – the most common and easier to install.
- Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) – more efficient but need underground pipes.
Heat Pumps vs Gas Boilers: What’s the Difference?
Firstly, a gas boiler as its name suggests uses natural gas to power the boiler and create heat, whereas a Heat Pump only uses electricity. The preference of electricity over gas for new heating technology is due to the huge reduction in emissions from the fuel. Where Gas has a high carbon output, electricity is low to zero (if powered by renewables)
Efficiency being another key feature – Gas boilers are <90% efficient, which some sources have cited Heat Pumps being 300-400% efficient!!
Running costs are currently similar, but on balance with rising gas prices, it’s forecasted that Heat Pumps will become the cheaper source of energy moving forwards.
And it doesn’t stop there. Heat pumps typically need less costly maintenance, have a longer lifespan of up to 20 years and of course our favorite … Heat Pump cost and installation is backed by a £7000 grant.
The grant is available to everyone and isn’t means tested, so fill in our form today to see how much support you could receive for your new Heat Pump.
The Benefits of Switching to a Heat Pump
1. Lower Carbon Footprint
Heat pumps don’t burn fossil fuels. That means fewer greenhouse gas emissions from your home – a big win for the planet.
The Guardian: Heat pumps cut carbon emissions by 64%
2. Incredible Efficiency
For every unit of electricity used, a heat pump can generate 3 to 4 units of heat. In other words, they’re up to 400% efficient compared to a gas boiler’s 90%.
Energy Saving Trust: How do heat pumps work?
3. Lower Long-Term Costs
Although the initial price tag is higher, heat pumps can be cheaper to run – especially if you’re on a smart electricity tariff or use solar panels at home.
4. Government Support Available
Right now, the UK government is offering grants of up to £7,500 through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
Is A Heat Pump Right for Your Home?
Heat pumps are ideal if:
- You’re planning home renovations.
- You have good insulation (or plan to improve it).
- You want a future-proof heating system.
For older or less insulated homes, you might need to upgrade your insulation first – which could be covered by schemes like the Great British Insulation Scheme.
Take advantage of the grants while they’re available
Gas boilers have served us well for decades, but heat pumps offer a cleaner, more efficient way to heat our homes. With government support, rising gas prices, and a push for net zero, now is a great time to consider making the switch.
Contact the team at Energy Grant Finder to find out much you can receive to upgrade your home to cleaner, efficient energy.
