With rising energy bills and growing concerns over climate change, many homeowners are looking for better ways to heat their homes. Two common options stand out: upgrading to a new boiler or switching to an air source heat pump with the help of Air Source Heat Pump Grants. Both can help reduce energy use and cut monthly costs, but which one is the better choice?
In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between air source heat pumps and modern boilers. We’ll compare costs, efficiency, long-term savings, and the available grants to help you decide which option works best for your home.
What is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An air source heat pump is a renewable heating system. It pulls heat from the outside air—even in cold weather—and uses it to warm your home and water. It works much like a fridge in reverse.
There are two main types:
- Air-to-water: Heats water for radiators and underfloor systems.
- Air-to-air: Heats air directly and may provide cooling in the summer.
Air source heat pumps are known for being energy-efficient and eco-friendly. They run on electricity and use less energy than traditional heating methods.
What is a Boiler Upgrade?
Boilers have come a long way in recent years. Modern gas boilers are more efficient, safer, and better for the environment. Upgrading to a new condensing boiler can help cut energy waste and reduce heating bills.
Types of boilers include:
- Combi boilers: Heat water on demand.
- System boilers: Work with a hot water cylinder.
- Conventional boilers: Use both a tank and a cylinder.
While still using fossil fuels, new boilers are more efficient than older models.
Upfront Cost Comparison
Air Source Heat Pump
Installing an air source heat pump is not cheap. Prices usually range from £7,000 to £14,000, depending on the size of your home and the system needed.
However, Air Source Heat Pump Grants can cover a large portion of the cost. In the UK, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) offers £7,500 to homeowners who switch from a gas or oil boiler to a heat pump.
This makes the price more affordable and helps many households make the switch to renewable energy.
Boiler Upgrade
Upgrading your boiler is cheaper up front. A new boiler can cost between £2,000 and £5,000 installed, depending on the type and brand.
There are also boiler grants, like the ECO4 scheme, which helps low-income families replace old, inefficient boilers for free or at a reduced cost.
So, if you’re tight on budget and need a quick fix, a boiler upgrade might seem more appealing at first.
Running Costs and Energy Bills
Air Source Heat Pump
Heat pumps are more efficient than gas or oil boilers. For every unit of electricity used, a heat pump can produce up to three units of heat.
While electricity costs more than gas per unit, the overall efficiency can still save you money in the long run. Many households see lower annual heating costs after switching.
Also, heat pumps work well with solar panels. If you produce your own electricity, your savings can grow even more.
Boiler Upgrade
Modern boilers are more efficient than older ones, but they still burn gas or oil. You’ll save money if your current boiler is very old or broken, but you may not see major savings if your system is already decent.
Gas prices can also fluctuate, and with the global push away from fossil fuels, there’s a risk that running a gas boiler may become more expensive in the future.
Maintenance and Lifespan
Heat Pumps
Air source heat pumps need regular servicing to stay efficient, but they are built to last. Most heat pumps have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, and some may last even longer with proper care.
Their parts are fairly simple, and the systems don’t burn fuel, so there is less wear and tear.
Boilers
A good gas boiler can last 10 to 15 years. However, because they burn fuel, there’s more chance for parts to break down. Annual servicing is needed, and repairs may become costly as the system ages.
Boilers also carry the risk of carbon monoxide leaks, which means you must install detectors and stay alert for faults.
Environmental Impact
Heat Pumps
Air source heat pumps are low carbon. They use electricity, and if that electricity is from renewable sources, the system can be close to carbon neutral.
Switching to a heat pump is one of the biggest steps you can take to reduce your home’s carbon footprint. That’s why Air Source Heat Pump Grants are part of many government plans to fight climate change.
Boilers
Even the most efficient gas boiler still burns fossil fuels and produces carbon dioxide. They’re cleaner than old models, but they still add to the climate problem.
In the UK, gas heating accounts for over 25% of all household carbon emissions. So if you want to go green, a boiler upgrade can only do so much.
Home Suitability
Is Your Home Ready for a Heat Pump?
Not every home is heat pump ready. Older homes may need:
- Better insulation
- Larger radiators or underfloor heating
- Space for the outside unit
These upgrades add cost but help the heat pump work more efficiently.
Newer homes or well-insulated homes are more ideal. If your home is already energy efficient, the switch is easier and cheaper.
Is a Boiler Upgrade More Suitable?
Boilers are easier to install in most homes. You won’t need to replace radiators or add insulation. A new boiler can often be fitted in a day, with minimal changes to your home.
This makes it a simpler option, especially if your current system is already set up for it.
Financial Help: Grants and Incentives
Air Source Heat Pump Grants
The UK government offers strong support for heat pump adoption. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) gives homeowners £7,500 off the cost of installing a new air source heat pump.
To qualify, you must:
- Own your home
- Replace an old fossil fuel system
- Meet insulation standards in some cases
This grant makes heat pumps more affordable for thousands of families. It’s a great reason to consider switching to a green system.
Boiler Upgrade Grants
The ECO4 scheme and other regional programs may help you get a boiler for free or at a reduced price. These are often income-based and focused on helping low-income households.
If you’re eligible, it’s a good way to improve your heating without high upfront costs. But note that these schemes often focus on replacing very old or broken systems.
Long-Term Value and Return on Investment
Heat Pump ROI
While a heat pump costs more upfront, it can save more in the long run. Lower energy bills, fewer repairs, and a longer lifespan all add value.
Also, as gas becomes more expensive and electric grids become greener, heat pumps will likely be the cheaper and cleaner option in the years to come.
Adding a heat pump can also increase your property value, especially as buyers become more eco-conscious.
Boiler ROI
Boilers give a quick return, especially if your current system is failing. They are cheaper to install, and your home may not need upgrades to use one.
However, as the world shifts away from fossil fuels, gas systems may lose value over time. A boiler upgrade is a good short-term fix but may not be future-proof.
Government Plans and Future Trends
Governments across Europe, including the UK, are pushing for cleaner home heating. The goal is to cut carbon emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Heat pumps are a key part of these plans. As a result, more grants, subsidies, and incentives are likely in the future.
Boilers, on the other hand, may face new taxes or restrictions. Some regions have already banned gas connections in new homes. These trends suggest that heat pumps are the future of home heating.
Summary: Which is Better?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The better choice depends on your budget, home type, and long-term goals.
Choose a Heat Pump If:
- You want to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Your home is well-insulated or you’re willing to upgrade.
- You plan to stay in your home for the long term.
- You want to take advantage of Air Source Heat Pump Grants.
Choose a Boiler Upgrade If:
- You need a low-cost, short-term solution.
- Your current boiler is failing, and funds are limited.
- Your home isn’t heat pump ready.
- You qualify for a free boiler under the ECO scheme.
Final Thoughts
Both options have pros and cons. But one thing is clear—heating systems are changing fast. With energy costs rising and climate rules tightening, now is the time to think ahead.
If your home is ready, switching to a heat pump with the help of Air Source Heat Pump Grants could save you money and cut emissions for years to come. Understanding how these systems work, including reviewing an air source heat pump pipework schematic, can help you see what the upgrade involves.
If not, upgrading your boiler may still be a smart move while you prepare for greener tech in the future. Before making your decision, speak to a heating professional, check your home’s energy rating, and look into the grants you may qualify for.
