Yes. A heat pump is cheaper than a gas boiler in the UK over the long term, but only in the right type of home. Heat pumps cost more to install, but they use much less energy, which lowers heating bills over many years.
Choose a heat pump when the home holds heat well and heating runs at lower temperatures for longer periods. Choose a gas boiler when the home loses heat quickly or needs fast, high-temperature heating.
Heat pump works best if:
- The home is well insulated
- Heating runs most of the day
- Low-temperature radiators or underfloor heating are in place
Gas boiler works best if:
- Insulation is poor
- Heating is used in short bursts
- Radiators need high water temperature
- Short-term cost is the main concern
Simple rule:
Good insulation → Heat pump.
Poor insulation or short-term use → Gas boiler.
Why People Compare Heat Pumps and Gas Boilers
Many homeowners are looking for ways to save money on their heating bills. With energy prices going up, it’s smart to think about the future. People want to know which system will be cheaper over its whole life, not just on the day it’s installed.
Another big reason is the environment. People are becoming more aware of how their choices affect the planet. Heat pumps are seen as a greener option, which makes them an attractive choice for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint.
What Is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is a clever device that moves heat from one place to another. It doesn’t create heat by burning fuel. Instead, it works a bit like a fridge in reverse.
Imagine how a fridge takes heat from inside to keep your food cool. A heat pump does the opposite:
- It takes warmth from the air outside, even when it’s cold.
- It then moves this warmth inside your home.
- This makes your house warm and cosy.
Because it just moves heat instead of making it, it uses much less energy.
What Is a Gas Boiler?
A gas boiler is the most common way to heat homes in the UK. It works by burning natural gas to heat water. This hot water then flows through pipes to your radiators and taps.
Gas boilers have been used for a long time because they are familiar, reliable, and were traditionally cheaper to install. Most homes are already set up for them, which is why they are still so popular.
Installation Cost vs Long-Term Cost
When you first buy a heating system, the costs are very different. A gas boiler is usually cheaper to install. This upfront saving is why many people choose them.
However, a heat pump has a higher installation cost. But the important thing to remember is the long-term cost.
Over many years, the lower running costs of a heat pump can make it the cheaper option overall. Think of it as a long-term investment in your home.
Running Costs Over Time
The difference in running costs comes down to how each system uses energy.
- Gas Boilers: Burn gas to create heat. You pay for every unit of gas you use.
- Heat Pumps: Use a small amount of electricity to move a lot of heat. For every unit of electricity they use, they can produce three or four units of heat.
This high efficiency is what makes heat pumps cheaper to run. Even though electricity can be more expensive than gas per unit, you need much less of it to warm your home.
Maintenance & Lifespan
How long your heating system lasts and how much you spend to look after it also affects the total cost.
A heat pump generally has a longer lifespan than a gas boiler, often lasting 20 years or more. They also tend to need less maintenance because they have fewer moving parts.
A gas boiler usually lasts around 10 to 15 years and needs an annual service to stay safe and efficient. Over time, these servicing costs can add up.
Simple Comparison Table – Heat Pump vs Gas Boiler
| Feature | Heat Pump | Gas Boiler |
| Installation Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Running Cost (Long Term) | Lower | Higher |
| Maintenance | Lower | Higher |
| Lifespan | Longer | Shorter |
| Eco-Friendly | Yes | No |
When Is a Heat Pump Cheaper in the UK?
A heat pump is most likely to be cheaper for you if your home is well-insulated. Good insulation keeps the warmth inside, so the heat pump doesn’t have to work as hard. This means you save even more money.
If you plan to live in your home for a long time, a heat pump is a great choice. The longer you have it, the more you will save on your bills. Also, keep an eye out for government grants, which can help lower the initial installation cost.
When a Gas Boiler May Still Be Cheaper
A gas boiler might still be the cheaper option in some situations. If your home has poor insulation, a heat pump will struggle to keep it warm and may end up costing more to run.
Also, if you plan on moving home in just a few years, you might not have enough time to see the long-term savings from a heat pump. In this case, the lower installation cost of a new gas boiler could make more financial sense.
FAQs – Heat Pump vs Gas Boiler: Which is Cheaper Long Term?
Are heat pumps worth it in the UK?
Yes, for many homes they are worth it. They save money on bills over the long term and are better for the environment.
Do heat pumps work in winter?
Absolutely. Modern heat pumps are designed to work efficiently even in the cold UK winters. They can still find enough warmth in the air to heat your home.
How long before savings start?
This depends on your home’s insulation and how much you use your heating. Most people start seeing savings on their bills right away, and the system can pay for itself over several years.
If you are thinking about upgrading your heating system and want advice that suits your home, Domestic Heating Group can help. We provide expert installation, repair, and maintenance of heating systems, as well as EV charger installation, helping UK homes stay efficient and reliable.
Conclusion
Deciding between a heat pump and a gas boiler is a big choice. A gas boiler is cheaper to buy today, but a heat pump is often cheaper to own over the next 20 years.
If you have a well-insulated home and want to lower your carbon footprint, a heat pump is a smart investment. It protects you from future gas price hikes and lasts longer than a boiler. However, if your budget is tight right now or your home needs lots of insulation work, a modern boiler might still be a valid option.
Take time to check your insulation and look at the grants available. The right choice will keep your home warm and your bills manageable for years to come.
