Gas vs Electric Heating
With the UK's push towards net zero and the phase-out of gas boilers in new builds from 2025, many homeowners are questioning whether to stick with gas or switch to electric heating. This guide compares the options.
Gas Central Heating
Traditional gas boiler system with radiators, powered by natural gas. Currently the most common heating system in UK homes.
Pros
- +Lower running costs than electric
- +Heats homes quickly and efficiently
- +Familiar, well-understood technology
- +Wide range of installers available
- +Parts readily available
- +Can be combined with gas cooking
Cons
- −Fossil fuel - not zero carbon
- −New builds can't install from 2025
- −Requires annual servicing
- −Potential future carbon taxes
- −Needs gas supply connection
- −Boiler replacement every 15-20 years
Typical cost: ~4.5p/kWh (gas cost) + £100/year servicing
Best for: Existing homes with gas supply where immediate cost is the priority
Electric Heating (Heat Pump)
Air source or ground source heat pumps that extract heat from outside and use electricity to amplify it. Can be 3-4x more efficient than direct electric heating.
Pros
- +Zero carbon at point of use
- +Can be powered by solar panels
- +3-4x more efficient than gas
- +No annual gas safety check
- +Government grants available
- +Future-proof as grid decarbonises
- +Can provide cooling in summer
Cons
- −Higher upfront installation cost
- −May need radiator upgrades
- −Requires good insulation to be effective
- −Lower flow temperatures than gas
- −Ground source needs garden space
- −Still relatively new technology
Typical cost: ~7p/kWh effective (22p/kWh ÷ 3.0 COP) + minimal maintenance
Best for: Well-insulated homes, new builds, or those committed to decarbonisation
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Gas Central Heating | Electric Heating (Heat Pump) |
|---|---|---|
| Running cost | ~4.5p/kWh | ~7p/kWh effective |
| Installation cost | £2,500-4,000 | £8,000-15,000 |
| Carbon emissions | High | Zero/Low |
| Government support | None | £7,500 grant |
| Future-proofing | Uncertain | Good |
| Heating response | Fast | Slower |
| Installer availability | Widespread | Growing |
| Lifespan | 15-20 years | 20-25 years |
Our Expert Recommendation
For most existing North London homes replacing a boiler, gas remains the practical choice for now. However, if you're doing a major renovation or your home is well-insulated, a heat pump is worth serious consideration - especially with £7,500 government grants available. We expect heat pumps to become the standard choice within 10 years as the technology improves and gas costs increase.
Choose Gas Central Heating if:
Existing homes with gas supply where immediate cost is the priority
Choose Electric Heating (Heat Pump) if:
Well-insulated homes, new builds, or those committed to decarbonisation
Gas Central Heating vs Electric Heating (Heat Pump) FAQs
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HAMPSTEAD RENOVATIONS - Your trusted property renovation company in Hampstead and refurbishment company in Hampstead
https://www.hampsteadrenovations.co.uk/ | Email: contact@hampsteadrenovations.co.uk