With the push towards renewable energy, many homeowners across Wales and South West England are wondering whether to stick with gas or switch to a heat pump. Here's an honest comparison to help you decide.

Gas Boilers: The Familiar Choice

Gas boilers have heated British homes for decades. They're well-understood, widely available, and most heating engineers can service them. We install Worcester and Ideal boilers—trusted brands known for reliability.

Gas Boiler Pros:

• Lower upfront cost (£2,000–£4,500 installed)
• Works with existing radiators
• Familiar technology
• Quick to heat up

Gas Boiler Cons:

• Burns fossil fuels
• Subject to gas price volatility
• No new gas boilers after 2035 (proposed)
• Typical lifespan 10–15 years

Heat Pumps: The Future of Heating

Air source heat pumps extract heat from outside air—even in cold weather—and use it to warm your home. We install Mitsubishi Ecodan systems, one of the most reliable brands available. They're highly efficient and produce no direct emissions.

Heat Pump Pros:

• 300–400% efficient (3–4 units of heat per unit of electricity)
• No direct carbon emissions
• Lower running costs with right setup
• Lifespan 20+ years
• Can provide cooling in summer

Heat Pump Cons:

• Higher upfront cost (£8,000–£15,000 installed)
• Works best in well-insulated homes
• May need larger radiators
• Requires outdoor unit space

Which Is Right for Your Home?

The honest answer: it depends on your home and circumstances.

A gas boiler might be better if: Your home isn't well insulated yet, you need a quick replacement, or your budget is limited. A modern A-rated gas boiler is still a significant upgrade from an old, inefficient model.

A heat pump might be better if: Your home is already well insulated (or you're insulating as part of the project), you have space for the outdoor unit, and you're thinking long-term about running costs and environmental impact. They're particularly suited to off-grid rural properties in Wales.

The Good News: Funding Is Available

Both options can be funded through ECO4 for eligible households across Wales and South West England — the scheme runs until December 2026. We'll assess your home and recommend the best solution—whether that's a boiler, heat pump, or insulation first.

Heat Pumps vs Gas Boilers: Which Is Right for Your Home?