Heat Pump vs Boiler: Which Heating System Is Best for North West London Homes?
If you’re thinking about upgrading your home heating system, you’ve probably come across two main options: heat pumps and boilers.
But which is better — and for your specific home in London?
At A&C Heating and Plumbing Ltd, we help homeowners make informed decisions by breaking down the pros and cons of each system.
🔥 What Is a Boiler?
A boiler heats water and distributes it through radiators or underfloor heating.
Types of boilers include:
-
Combi Boilers – heat water on demand
-
System Boilers – use a storage cylinder
-
Regular Boilers – require both tank and cylinder
Boilers typically run on:
-
Natural gas (most common in the UK)
-
LPG, oil, or electricity (less common)
❄️ What Is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump extracts heat from the air or ground (even when it’s cold outside) and transfers it inside your home.
Types:
-
Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) – most popular, easier to install
-
Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) – more efficient, but more costly and complex to install
Heat pumps run on electricity, not gas.
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⚖️ Heat Pump vs Boiler – Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | Heat Pump | Boiler |
---|---|---|
Energy Efficiency | ✅ Up to 400% | ❌ 90–95% (modern condensing) |
Running Costs | ✅ Lower (if well insulated) | ❌ Depends on gas prices |
Installation Cost | ❌ High (£7k–£13k) | ✅ Lower (£1.5k–£4k) |
Maintenance | ✅ Low | ✅ Moderate |
Lifespan | ✅ 15–20 years | ✅ 10–15 years |
Emissions | ✅ Zero on green electricity | ❌ Produces CO₂ (gas) |
Works in Cold Weather? | ✅ Yes (with lower flow temp) | ✅ Yes |
Space Required | ❌ Needs outdoor unit | ✅ More compact |
Water Temperature Output | ❌ Lower (35–55°C) | ✅ High (70°C+) |
24-Hour EMERGENCY FREEPHONE
Call Us Now 0779 559 5757
🌍 Eco-Friendliness: Heat Pump Wins
If your goal is to reduce your carbon footprint and future-proof your home for upcoming gas boiler bans, a heat pump is clearly the greener option.
When powered by renewable electricity, heat pumps are nearly carbon-neutral.
💰 Which System Saves More Money?
Boilers:
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Lower initial cost
-
Faster installation
-
Effective for homes with traditional radiators
Heat Pumps:
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Lower energy bills long-term
-
Eligible for government grants (Boiler Upgrade Scheme)
-
Better suited for well-insulated homes or new builds
🏠 Which Is Better for Your Property?
Scenario | Best Option |
---|---|
You live in a flat with no outdoor space | Boiler |
Your home is well insulated | Heat Pump |
You need fast hot water on demand | Boiler |
You want to reduce carbon footprint | Heat Pump |
You have older or smaller radiators | Boiler (or upgrade needed) |
💡 Still Unsure? Ask the Experts
At A&C Heating and Plumbing Ltd, we help clients across London assess the right heating system based on:
-
Property type
-
Insulation level
-
Heating habits
-
Budget
-
Long-term efficiency goals
We offer:
✅ Home heating surveys
✅ Boiler & heat pump installations
✅ Upgrades to improve energy efficiency
📞 Contact Us for Expert Heating Advice
Not sure if a heat pump or boiler is right for you?
📞 Call us on 0779 559 5757
📧 Email: info@ac-heating-plumbing.co.uk
💬 Request a Free Heating Assessment
We serve homeowners and landlords across North & West London, including Camden, Ealing, Acton, Shepherd’s Bush, Islington, and beyond.
FAQs – Boiler vs Heat Pump
Are heat pumps suitable for older properties?
Can I replace my gas boiler with a heat pump?
Do heat pumps work in winter?
Are government grants available for heat pumps?
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