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Home Heat Pump Services Heat Pump vs Boiler

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:

    • Lower initial cost

    • Faster installation

    • Effective for homes with traditional radiators

    Heat Pumps:

    • 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?

    Yes, but good insulation is essential. Heat pumps work efficiently in older homes after proper insulation upgrades.

    Can I replace my gas boiler with a heat pump?

    Yes. Replacing a gas boiler with a heat pump is possible, but your system may need upgrades like larger radiators and improved pipework.

    Do heat pumps work in winter?

    Yes. Air source heat pumps work effectively even at temperatures below zero, though with slightly reduced efficiency.

    Are government grants available for heat pumps?

    Yes. In the UK, homeowners may qualify for grants like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which offers up to £7,500 for switching to a heat pump.