Air Source Heat Pumps vs Boilers – The Fight Is On: Round Two!

Can an air source heat pump (ASHP) replace my traditional boiler? Let’s find out…Part two

Last week we examined the efficiency and lifespan of traditional boilers vs heatumps…Let’s now talk about the upfront installation cost and running costs.

UPFRONT INSTALLATION COST:

Based on Energy Saving Trust (EST), a standard gas boiler replacement will cost you £2,300, on average. Comparatively, an air source heat pump can cost you between £6,000 – £20,000. Moreover, a ground source heat pump can cost you £10,000 – £30,000. Therefore, the heat pumps are about 3 – 9 times the cost of a gas boiler replacement. But a predominant part of the cost can be retrieved from Renewable Heat Incentive. Heat pumps have a higher buying and installation cost compared to boilers. Moreover, prices vary depending on the type, manufacturer, and model for both heating types. Although a gas boiler is the most cost-effective option, the longer lifetime of the heat pump makes the cost worth it. That’s because gas boilers need a replacement two times in the same lifespan as heat pumps.

HEAT PUMP VS BOILER:
2 – 1

HEATING RUNNING COSTS:
The cost to run the heating systems is shocking comparable, even if electricity is 4 times more expensive than oil, gas, and LPG. This indicates a decline in the cost of electricity in the future, the running cost would be a proportion of conventional heating systems. Considering the variable nature of changing energy rates, we think this is inevitable. But this is hypothetical, we can’t predict for sure when these rates might fluctuate. However, as the UK plants more solar farms, wind farms and hydroelectricity facilities, it justifies that the cost of electricity will gradually decline. In terms of running cost, the boiler is winning now, but heat pumps will seize it in the future.

HEAT PUMP VS BOILER:
3 – 2

Tune in next week for the next instalment of Boilers vs ASHPs!