Is a Heat Pump Cheaper Than Gas?
This is part of our complete guide, answering the question, “Are heat pumps worth it?”
Many wonder whether running a heat pump is cheaper than a gas boiler in Scotland. As energy costs continue to rise, homeowners want more cost-effective and efficient ways to heat their homes, and MPC Energy is here with solutions. With the increasing awareness of the need for carbon emission reduction, there has been a significant shift towards renewable energy sources such as heat pumps. Heat pumps can beat gas boilers in certain situations, especially when your tariff, home setup and usage patterns are in their favour.
How Does a Heat Pump Tariff Work?
Heat pumps run on electricity, and the cost can feel high if you’re on a standard variable rate. However, some suppliers offer a special heat pump tariff that lowers your electricity rate during off-peak hours. With a low night-time rate and a smart controller, your system can do the heavy lifting while you sleep by storing up warmth to keep costs down. Gas boilers don’t get cheaper by the time of day, but your electricity can. So, if you can grab a good heat pump tariff, you could see lower bills, especially in colder months.
How Can Insulation Lower Your Heat Pump Bill?
Reliable insulation and durable heat pumps go hand in hand. At MPC Energy Ltd, we install heat pumps and insulation together to maximise efficiency. When your home retains heat better, your heat pump doesn’t have to work as hard, saving you money monthly. Here’s how insulation can lower your heat pump bill:
Prevent Heat Escaping — Gaps in your walls, loft, or floors let warmth escape your home. Plugging these gaps allows you to retain warmth in your space more easily.
Promote Steady Temperatures — Heat pumps work best when they don’t have to reheat the space constantly. Insulation helps maintain a steady, comfortable climate indoors.
Lower Energy Use — Your system runs more efficiently with less heat loss. That reduces energy use and trims your monthly heating costs.
Government Help Matters for Heat Pumps and Gas Boilers
Government programmes like the ECO4 Scheme can make switching to a heat pump much more affordable. If you qualify, your system could be heavily discounted or even free. Here are more details about why government help matters for heat pumps and gas boilers:
Upfront Cost Reduction — Government programmes cover partial or complete installation costs. This incentive removes the most significant barrier for many households.
Special Qualifications — People over 65, households receiving child benefit, or people with health conditions may be eligible. Private tenants and homeowners can both apply for support.
Cleaner and Future-Proof — Heat pumps reduce carbon emissions. With government help, they’re a smart, affordable upgrade that benefits the environment.
Low Temperature Heating Means Big-Time Savings
Heat pumps work best with low-temperature systems. Underfloor heating and modern radiators don’t need to reach boiling to feel warm. Lower flow temperatures mean the heat pump doesn’t have to work as hard, and your electricity bill reflects that. Boilers, on the other hand, push out heat at higher temperatures. As a result, they can be wasteful in a well-designed modern home. So, if your house already has underfloor heating or has had recent upgrades, a heat pump can deliver heat more efficiently and at a lower cost than gas.
Consider the Benefits of Installing a Heat Pump
At first glance, gas boiler upgrades can look cheaper, but heat pumps often win out over time. The long-term value becomes clear when you factor in energy use, maintenance, and lifespan. Here’s what to consider regarding heat pump and gas boiler long-term costs:
Increased Savings Over Time — Gas boilers cost less to install, but heat pumps are cheaper to run. Over several years, the savings from heat pumps start to add up.
Pricing Consistency — Gas costs can swing wildly with market changes. Electricity, especially from renewables, offers more predictable pricing.
Less Frequent Repairs — Heat pumps generally need less maintenance than boilers. That means fewer callouts and lower ongoing costs.
Long-Lasting Performance — A typical heat pump can run efficiently for 15 to 20 years. That’s often longer than the average gas boiler.
Let Us Determine the Best System for Your Property
Heat pumps can be less expensive than gas boilers, depending on your electricity tariff, how well you insulate your home, your heating system setup, funding eligibility, and your daily routine. If you meet even a few of these conditions, it’s worth a look. MPC Energy Ltd can complete an energy performance assessment, help you apply for funding, and install the right system. Our team works across Scotland to improve energy efficiency for households of all types. If you want to know if a heat pump could reduce your bill, get in touch with us for assistance.
