The Case for Change
With the UK government targeting net-zero by 2050 and planning to phase out new gas boiler installations by 2035, the question of switching to a heat pump is increasingly relevant for homeowners. But the decision requires careful consideration of your home, budget, and priorities.
How Each System Works
A gas boiler burns natural gas to heat water, which circulates through radiators and a hot water cylinder. Modern condensing boilers achieve around 90% efficiency.
An air source heat pump extracts heat from the outdoor air and amplifies it using a refrigerant cycle, delivering heat at a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 2.5–4.5. This means 2.5–4.5 units of heat per unit of electricity consumed.
Cost Comparison
Gas boiler installation typically costs £2,000–£3,500. Heat pump installation costs £8,000–£15,000, but the government's Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides a £7,500 grant, reducing the net cost significantly.
Running costs are more complex. Gas is cheaper per kWh than electricity, but heat pumps use electricity far more efficiently. With electricity at around 28p/kWh and gas at 7p/kWh, you need a COP of 4 to match gas running costs. Many systems achieve this under good conditions.
Suitability Factors
Heat pumps perform best in well-insulated homes with large radiators or underfloor heating, as they deliver heat at lower temperatures over longer periods. Poorly insulated properties may see higher running costs until insulation is improved.
Gas boilers remain highly practical for properties on mains gas, especially where insulation upgrades would be prohibitively expensive.
Environmental Impact
Heat pumps produce no direct carbon emissions. Their indirect emissions depend on the electricity grid's carbon intensity, which is steadily decreasing as renewable energy grows. By 2035, heat pumps are expected to be significantly lower-carbon than gas boilers.
Our Honest Advice
We install both systems and will always give you an honest assessment. Halo Heating carries out full heat loss surveys before recommending a heat pump. Call 01483 676108 for a free consultation.
Need Professional Help?
Our Gas Safe registered engineers cover Surrey and surrounding areas. Call for a free quote or to book an engineer.
Call 01483 676108