Is a heat pump cheaper to run than a gas boiler?

It depends on the property and energy prices. Heat pumps are 3-4 times more efficient than gas boilers, but electricity costs more per unit than gas. According to the Energy Saving Trust, well-insulated homes with appropriately sized heat pumps can see lower running costs, while poorly insulated homes may see similar or higher costs.

Should I replace my gas boiler with a heat pump?

The GBP7,500 government grant makes the switch more affordable. Heat pumps work best in well-insulated homes with good-sized radiators or underfloor heating. If your gas boiler is old and your home is reasonably insulated, a heat pump could reduce your carbon footprint and future-proof your heating.

Will gas boilers be banned?

The UK government plans to phase out new gas boiler installations in new-build homes. The exact timeline for existing homes is still being developed. Gas boilers won't be removed from homes, but replacements will increasingly shift towards heat pumps and other low-carbon alternatives.

Heat Pump vs Gas Boiler | Which Is Better in 2026?

Important Notice

This comparison uses data from the Energy Saving Trust, industry publications, and government sources. Actual costs and savings depend on your property, location, and usage patterns. We are not heating engineers — consult MCS-certified installers for advice specific to your home.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Factor	Heat Pump	Gas Boiler
Upfront cost	£500-£7,500 After £7,500 BUS grant	£2,000-£4,000 No grant available
Efficiency	300-400% COP 3-4 (manufacturer rated)	90-95% Modern condensing boiler
Carbon emissions	Significantly lower Renewable energy source	Higher Fossil fuel combustion
Lifespan	20-25 years According to manufacturers	10-15 years Industry average
Maintenance	Annual service Fewer moving parts	Annual service Gas safety check required
Government grants	£7,500 BUS grant Plus ECO4 if eligible	None No government support
Future-proofing	Aligned with policy Government backing low-carbon heating	Phase-out planned New installations being restricted

When Each Option Makes Sense

Choose a Heat Pump If...

Your home is reasonably well insulated (or you can improve it)
You qualify for the £7,500 BUS grant
You're replacing an oil or LPG boiler (higher fuel savings)
You want to reduce your carbon footprint
You're planning to stay in the property long-term

A Gas Boiler May Suit If...

Your home has very poor insulation that can't be easily improved
You need a quick, low-cost replacement urgently
You have limited outdoor space for an external unit
Budget is the primary constraint and grants don't apply
You're planning to sell soon (though higher EPC helps value)

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Key Eligibility Factors:

Replacing gas/oil/LPG boiler
Property suitable for heat pump
England or Wales

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Heat Pump vs Gas Boiler

The Maths Has Changed

Important Notice

Head-to-Head Comparison

When Each Option Makes Sense

Choose a Heat Pump If...

A Gas Boiler May Suit If...

Check Your Heat Pump Grant Eligibility

Key Eligibility Factors:

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Running Costs

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