Heat pumps vs. traditional heating methods - which to choose for heating your home

Choosing the right heating system for your home is probably one of the biggest decisions you’ll make for your comfort, budget and carbon footprint. And as we look to more sustainable living, you might be weighing up the benefits of modern heat pumps vs traditional heating methods like gas boilers. 

So, which should you choose? Let’s explore the pros, cons and key differences to help you make an informed decision.

A quick recap of heat pumps 

A heat pump is a clever bit of technology that moves heat from outside to inside your home. Instead of generating heat by burning fuel, it extracts ambient heat from the air or ground and boosts it to a higher temperature to warm your living spaces and hot water.

Newer heat pumps can be over 300% efficient, producing up to three units of heat for every unit of electricity they use. They can also work seamlessly alongside renewable electricity, making them a firm favourite for households keen to decarbonise and cut energy bills.

How do traditional heating methods compare?

When we talk about traditional heating, most UK homes still rely on gas boilers. These systems burn natural gas to heat water, which is then pumped through radiators or underfloor heating. Gas boilers have been the default option for decades due to low installation costs, high heat output and familiarity.

Other traditional options include oil or LPG boilers (common in rural areas) and electric resistance heaters. These methods can deliver reliable warmth, but can often come with higher running costs and larger carbon footprints than modern low-carbon alternatives.

Heat pump vs. tradition heating - head-to-head comparison

Let’s break down the key differences to see how they stack up.

Efficiency

• Heat pumps: Exceptionally efficient a well-installed heat pump can deliver up to 3-4 times more heat energy than the electricity it uses.
• Gas boilers: Around 90% efficient, but they lose some energy through exhaust gases.

Winner: Heat pumps take the crown for sheer energy efficiency.

Running costs

• Heat pumps: Running costs can be significantly lower than gas, oil or electric heaters, especially if paired with solar panels or off-peak tariffs. However, this depends on your electricity tariff and how well your home is insulated.
• Gas boilers: Generally cheaper upfront and natural gas has historically been a cost-effective fuel in the UK. But energy prices fluctuate, and gas is subject to rising carbon taxes.

Winner: Heat pumps can save you money over time, especially as gas prices climb and more green electricity becomes available.

Installation costs

• Heat pumps: Higher upfront costs due to the complexity of installation and need for thorough planning (heat loss surveys, new radiators or underfloor heating, etc.). Grants like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can offset costs by up to £7,500.
• Gas boilers: Lower initial cost and quicker installation, especially when replacing an existing system.

Winner: Gas boilers are cheaper upfront, but heat pumps may be more cost-effective long-term with available incentives.

Environmental impact

• Heat pumps: Powered by electricity and when combined with renewables, can be nearly zero-carbon. They cut greenhouse gas emissions dramatically compared to burning fossil fuels.
• Gas boilers: Burn fossil fuels directly, emitting CO₂ and other pollutants. The UK aims to phase out new gas boilers in favour of low-carbon alternatives.

Winner: Heat pumps are the clear choice for a greener, future-proof home.

Comfort and practicality

• Heat pumps: Deliver steady, gentle heat and can double up for cooling in summer (a bonus!). They do need a well-insulated home for best results.
• Gas boilers: Provide quick, high-temperature heat, great for draughty old homes that haven’t been upgraded yet.

Winner: Both offer reliable warmth, but gas may edge out heat pumps for older, leaky homes that haven’t had an insulation upgrade.

Let’s find the perfect fit for you

Deciding between a heat pump vs traditional heating depends on your home’s insulation, budget and long-term plans. If your priority is lower bills, lower emissions and future-proof comfort, a heat pump ticks all the boxes, especially when paired with renewable electricity.

At Oakray, we specialise in helping homeowners navigate this choice with confidence. From detailed heat loss surveys and custom heating designs to securing grants and installing market-leading systems, we’re here to make your switch smooth and stress-free.

Get in touch today to see how a heat pump could work for you, and join the growing community choosing cleaner, smarter home heating. To find out more about our offerings, download our brochure below.