Can you replace a boiler with a heat pump?

Has your boiler come to the end of its life and you’re looking to replace it with a heat pump? Here’s what you need to know.

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Boilers provide the heat which is needed to heat the water that is fed through to the pipes and radiators throughout a home. A heating system is an essential part of any modern home but is a boiler necessary? Nowadays there is another option which is a heat pump.

In short, yes you can replace a boiler with a heat pump but there’s a little more information that you may want to be clued up on before you make any big decisions that will effect your homes heating system. Keep reading to find out more.

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Can you replace a gas boiler with a heat pump?

Yes, you can replace your gas boiler with a heat pump. A certified heat pump installer will be able to guide you on whether an air source or ground source heat pump would be most suitable for your home and your needs.

Can you replace a combi boiler with a heat pump?

Yes, you can. However, in addition to the heat pump, you would also require a hot water storage cylinder to be fitted, so you will need an appropriate location for this to be housed.

Can you replace an oil boiler with a heat pump?

Yes, you can. It can be a real pain keeping an eye on oil and having to make sure it's always topped up. Therefore swapping to a heat pump would be a more efficient and environmentally friendly option.

FAQs

What are the pros and cons of a heat pump?

There are advantages and disadvantages when it comes to heat pumps, as there are with every type of heating system. If you’re considering changing your boiler to a heat pump, then you’ll want to be aware of the pros and cons:

Pros

Low maintenance
Sustainable heating
Efficient
Save costs
Can provide cooling and heating

Cons

Can be hard to install
May need planning permission
Can be expensive to run
Expensive initial cost
Relies on electricity

How long should a boiler last before I need to change it?

For the average household, boilers can last between 10-15 years if they are regularly maintained and serviced.

How much does a heat pump cost?

The cost of installing and running a heat pump can depend on a number of things. For instance, the size of your home, how well insulated it is, the brand you choose, and your heating needs.

However, as a ballpark figure, on average, the supply and installation of an air source heat pump will cost between £3,000 -£15,000 depending on the system you choose.

Renewable energy grants

Did you know you may be eligible for government green grants to help reduce costs, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)?

Providing you meet eligibility criteria, you can apply for a grant of up to £7,500 to help towards the cost of replacing your fossil fuel heating system with a heat pump.

There's plenty more up-to-date information about this and other available schemes in our green grants guide. A certified heat pump installer can also guide you on the latest grants available.

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