Heat pumps vs. traditional heating: Which is right for your home?

Are rising energy bills making you rethink your heating options? You’re not alone. Traditional systems like gas boilers and electric heaters have been the go-to for years, but more people are now exploring heat pumps as a more efficient and eco-friendly solution.

In this guide, we’ll compare costs, efficiency, and environmental impact to help you decide which heating system suits your home and budget.

Key takeaways

How they work
Costs: Upfront vs. long-term
Maintenance: What to expect
Efficiency: Which system gives you more?
Environmental impact
Choosing the right option for your home

How they work

Traditional heating

Traditional systems, like gas and oil boilers, burn fuel to create heat, which is then circulated through your home. These systems are dependable but rely on fossil fuels, which can drive up energy bills and pump out more carbon emissions.

Electric heaters work differently, converting electricity directly into heat. While they’re simple to use, they often use a lot of energy compared to the amount of heat they provide, which can make them pricey to run.

Heat pumps

Heat pumps take a different approach. Instead of creating heat, they move it from one place to another:

Air source heat pumps pull heat from the air outside, even on chilly days.
Ground source heat pumps use heat from the ground, which requires some outdoor space for installation.

Because they’re just transferring heat, not generating it, heat pumps use a lot less energy – making them an efficient and eco-friendly option.

Costs: Upfront vs. long-term

Installation costs

Heat pumps usually cost more to install than traditional systems because the setup can be more specialised. Ground source heat pumps, for example, need outdoor space and extra work to install the underground loops, while air source heat pumps are generally cheaper to install.

For a custom quote on an air source heat pump for your home, try our free online quote calculator today!

Running costs

Once they’re up and running, heat pumps can save you money on energy bills. They rely on renewable energy, which means you’re not as affected by rising fuel prices. Traditional systems, on the other hand, run on gas, oil, or electricity, so costs can shoot up when energy prices spike.

The average running cost for a heat pump depends on things like:

How much heat you and your home need
The electricity tariff you’re on
The type of heat pump you choose
The average temperature of the ground or air
Your energy habits

Financial support

There are heat pump grants and schemes, like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, that can make switching to a heat pump easier on your wallet. Call our team today to check your eligibility.

Maintenance: What to expect

Traditional heating systems

Gas and oil boilers need servicing once a year to keep them running safely and efficiently. Regular maintenance helps spot issues early and makes sure the system is performing well, but over time, parts may wear out and need replacing. Electric heaters are simpler but can still benefit from occasional checks.

Heat pumps

Heat pumps also need annual servicing to make sure they’re working efficiently. A professional inspection can check for things like refrigerant levels, leaks, or blockages. You’ll also need to keep the outdoor units clear of leaves, snow, or other debris to maintain their performance.

Efficiency: Which system gives you more?

Heat pumps are in a league of their own when it comes to efficiency. On average, they produce about three times the energy they use. Here’s how they stack up:

Heat Pumps: Around 300% efficient
Gas Boilers: About 85% efficient
Oil Boilers: Around 88% efficient

This means heat pumps use much less energy to keep your home warm, helping you save on bills and reduce your environmental impact.

Environmental impact

If you’re aiming to go green, heat pumps are the clear winner. Instead of burning fossil fuels like gas or oil boilers, they use renewable energy from the air or ground. This helps cut down on emissions and makes your home heating more sustainable. Switching to a heat pump is a small step that can make a big difference for the planet.

Choosing the right option for your home

The best heating system for you depends on your priorities:

Upfront cost: Traditional systems are cheaper to install but can cost more to run
Energy savings: Heat pumps can reduce your bills over time thanks to their efficiency
Environmental impact: Heat pumps are a greener choice with lower emissions

Ready to make the switch?

Air source heat pumps are a fantastic option if you’re looking to lower energy bills, shrink your carbon footprint, and keep your home warm year-round without the hassle. With a compact outdoor unit that’s easy to fit and heat pump grants available, the upgrade is now more affordable and accessible than ever.

If you’re ready to upgrade to a cleaner, more efficient heating system, we’re here to help. Just give us a call to get started today.

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