It might sound odd to say, but the choices we make about central heating aren’t just about staying warm. They also affect our wallets and the planet. With World Environment Day coming up, there’s never been a better time to think about how to cut your bills and your ‘carbon footprint’ in one go.
Replacing an old boiler or starting from scratch are the perfect times to think about the most eco-friendly central heating system. It can feel like a bit of a minefield, so let’s break it down and look at what your options are: the good, the bad, and the low-carbon.
Gas Boilers (Standard & Combi)
Let’s start with what most people already have. Standard gas boilers (including combi boilers) are common across the UK. They’re cheap to install and can heat your home and water quickly.
That said, they’re powered directly by fossil fuels. No matter how efficient your boiler is, it’s still burning gas. While they’re much better than older types, even the newer condensing models can’t compete with low-carbon alternatives.
It’s important to note that if your current boiler is very old or inefficient, upgrading to a newer model could still reduce your carbon footprint in the short term.
Eco rating: ★★☆☆☆
Oil Boilers
We mostly work with these in rural properties that are off the gas grid. Basically, they do the same job as gas boilers but use heating oil instead.
The bad news is that they’re even worse for the planet. Oil is expensive and comes with a bigger carbon footprint rating than gas. If you’ve got one, switching to a cleaner system could make a big difference.
Eco rating: ★☆☆☆☆
Electric Boilers
Electric boilers don’t burn fuel at all (sounds great, right?). Instead, they use electricity to heat water for your radiators and taps. They’re compact, quiet, and pretty easy to install.
But they’re only as green as the electricity that powers them. If your electricity comes from a supplier that mostly uses fossil fuels, any environmental benefit is going to be limited. On the flip side, if you’re on a green tariff or generate your own renewable energy (like solar), electric boilers can be a decent low-carbon option.
Running costs can be high, though, so it’s not always the most budget-friendly solution.
Eco rating: ★★★★☆
Biomass Boilers
Biomass boilers use organic material like wood pellets or logs to generate heat. Technically, this counts as renewable energy because trees can be replanted, and the carbon released through burning is absorbed again as the trees regrow.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. Biomass systems can be bulky, require regular maintenance, and may not be suitable for every home. Plus, not all wood pellets are sourced sustainably so you need a reliable, eco-friendly supply chain to really shrink your carbon footprint.
Eco rating: ★★★☆☆
Air Source Heat Pumps
If you’re serious about slashing your home’s emissions, the air source heat pump is by far the best bet. It works by drawing heat from the air outside (even when it’s cold) and using it to warm your home and water.
Because it moves heat rather than creating it, an air source heat pump uses much less energy than a boiler. It also runs on electricity, which can be green if your supplier uses clean power. This gives you a much lower carbon footprint compared to traditional heating.
They work best in well-insulated homes and tend to deliver heat at a lower, steadier temperature, which means larger radiators or underfloor heating might be needed.
Installation costs can be high, but running costs are low. There’s also a lot of financial support available, like the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
Eco rating: ★★★★★
Which Heating Option Is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. What’s right for a detached cottage might not be right for a small flat in town. That’s why it’s important to weigh a few things up, like:
- Your current heating system
- The insulation in your home
- Your budget (upfront and ongoing)
- Your long-term plans
- Space and access for new equipment
If your main goal is to reduce your carbon footprint, then an air source heat pump is hard to beat. It ticks the boxes for lower emissions, good energy efficiency, and potential savings, especially when backed by grants or subsidies.
That said, even small changes like switching to a new boiler, a green electricity supplier or improving your insulation can make a difference. It’s not all or nothing.
Ready to Make Your Heating Greener?
At ECS Plumbing and Heating, we’re on hand to help you cut emissions, save money, and upgrade to a heating system that actually makes a difference. If you’re looking to move away from fossil fuels, cut your energy bills, or just future-proof your home, we can help you find the right fit.
We supply and install air source heat pump systems that are energy-efficient and low maintenance and can walk you through every step. To find out more about going greener with your heating, get in touch for honest advice from the experts.
FAQs
Are air source heat pumps noisy?
They’re not loud enough to cause problems for most people. They’re much quieter than older oil or gas systems.
Can I combine a heat pump with solar panels?
Yes, pairing a heat pump with solar panels is a great way to use more renewable energy and cut bills even further.
Is a heat pump worth it in an older home?
Yes, but you’ll get the best results with proper insulation. Older homes may need upgrades like new radiators or better wall insulation first.
Will my radiators work with a heat pump?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Standard radiators might need to be swapped for larger ones, depending on your home’s layout and heat needs.
