Calculate Heat Pump Running Cost vs Gas Boiler

Typical range: 2.5–3.5 for air source, 3.5–4.5 for ground source.
£7,500 BUS grant available in England & Wales (2026).

Air Source Heat Pump vs Gas Boiler Running Costs

A heat pump does not generate heat by burning fuel — it moves heat from the outside air into your home. This means that for every unit of electricity consumed, it delivers 2.5 to 4 units of heat energy. Whether this makes it cheaper to run than a gas boiler depends on the ratio between electricity and gas prices, and the heat pump's seasonal coefficient of performance (SCoP).

In 2026, with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme providing a £7,500 grant towards installation, the total upfront cost for many homeowners has fallen significantly. Combined with long-term energy bill savings and lower carbon emissions, a heat pump can be a worthwhile investment for suitable properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are heat pumps cheaper to run than gas in the UK in 2026?

It depends on your heat pump's CoP and the electricity-to-gas price ratio. In 2026, gas costs roughly 5–6p/kWh and electricity around 24–25p/kWh. A heat pump with a CoP of 3.5 delivers 3.5 units of heat per unit of electricity, giving an effective heat cost of around 7p/kWh — only slightly above gas. For well-insulated homes with a high CoP, heat pumps can match or beat gas running costs.

What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) provides a £7,500 grant towards the installation of an air source heat pump or a £7,500 grant for a ground source heat pump in England and Wales. The grant is paid directly to the installer and deducted from your bill. It is available in 2026 and aims to make low-carbon heating more affordable.

What CoP should I expect from a heat pump?

A modern air source heat pump typically achieves a Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCoP) of 2.5 to 3.5 in UK conditions. Ground source heat pumps can achieve 3.5 to 4.5. The actual figure depends on the outdoor temperature, flow temperature, and how well-insulated your home is. Lower flow temperatures (e.g., underfloor heating) produce higher CoP figures.

Do heat pumps work in cold weather?

Yes, modern air source heat pumps work efficiently down to -15°C to -20°C. However, their efficiency (CoP) does decrease as outside temperatures fall. Most UK heat pumps are designed to operate effectively throughout British winters, where temperatures rarely drop below -10°C. Some models include a backup electric heater for extreme cold snaps.

Are heat pumps worth it in the UK in 2026?

For many UK homeowners in 2026, heat pumps represent a sound long-term investment, especially with the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant. They work best in well-insulated homes with lower flow temperature heating systems such as underfloor heating. As the electricity grid becomes greener, the carbon savings will also increase over time.