If you’re looking for viable, cost-effective alternatives to gas boiler systems, here are the top five options leading the UK’s energy revolution.
1. Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP)
The Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) is arguably the frontrunner in the race to decarbonise UK homes.
Why it’s efficient
Unlike a boiler which creates heat, a heat pump simply moves it. It extracts ambient warmth from the outdoor air (even when temperatures drop below freezing) and compresses it to heat your home and water.
This process is incredibly efficient: for every single unit of electricity the pump consumes, it generates between 3 and 4 units of heat (a 300-400% efficiency rating).
Air source heat pump cost and savings
While the initial installation cost is higher than a new gas boiler, government grants can significantly reduce the price, leading to major long-term savings:
| Cost/savings factor | Typical value in the UK |
| Average installation cost | £8,000 – £15,000 |
| Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grant | -£7,500 (for eligible homes) |
| Homeowner net cost | ~£500 – £7,500 |
| Estimated annual savings | Up to £290 (vs. old G-rated gas boiler) or up to £1,200 (vs. old electric storage heaters) |
Heat pumps are a solid investment, providing one of the lowest running costs of all the new heating technologies.
2. Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP)
A more powerful, though more intensive, cousin of the ASHP.
Why it’s efficient
Ground source heat pumps work on the same principle but extract heat from the earth, using a network of buried pipes. Since the ground temperature remains relatively constant year-round (unlike air), GSHPs can achieve a higher, more consistent efficiency rating, often reaching a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 4 or more.
The practical trade-off
The trade-off for this superior efficiency is the upfront cost and physical space required. Installation is significantly more expensive—typically £20,000 to £40,000—as it involves substantial drilling or trenching to lay the ground loop pipes. This makes GSHPs best suited for larger properties with ample outdoor space where the high capital outlay can be justified by their exceptional long-term performance.
3. Infrared heating panels
In the debate of infrared heating vs central heating, the efficiency argument for infrared panels is straightforward and compelling.
Why it’s efficient
Infrared panels are a form of radiant heating. Unlike traditional central heating, which uses convection to warm the air (which then rises and cools), infrared panels emit safe electromagnetic waves that directly warm solid objects, surfaces, and people in the room—just like feeling the sun on your skin.
Because they directly heat the thermal mass of the room (walls, furniture, floors), the heat is retained for longer, meaning the system can be turned off sooner. The panels themselves are highly efficient, converting almost 100% of the consumed electricity into usable heat. Furthermore, by using this targeted, zonal heat, some manufacturers claim energy usage reductions of 30-50% compared to conventional systems.
Key advantages:
- 100% point-of-use efficiency: Maximum conversion of electricity to heat.
- Low maintenance: No moving parts, plumbing, or servicing required.
- Space-saving: Slim panels that can be mounted on walls or ceilings.
4. Hybrid heating systems
For homeowners who want to dip their toes into low-carbon heating without committing to a full system overhaul, a hybrid system is an excellent choice.
Why it’s efficient
A hybrid system typically pairs a compact, high-efficiency heat pump with a new, A-rated gas boiler. The system uses smart controls to automatically determine the most efficient way to heat your home at any given time.
- Heat pump mode: Used when outdoor temperatures are mild and the heat pump offers the highest efficiency and lowest carbon emissions.
- Boiler mode: The gas boiler kicks in for peak demand, very cold periods, or when rapid hot water is needed.
This approach provides a comfortable blend of sustainability and guaranteed performance, offering a high-efficiency entry point into the low carbon heating market with less disruption and lower initial costs than a full heat pump conversion.
5. High-efficiency electric boilers (paired with solar PV)
Electric boilers are 100% efficient at the point of use—every unit of electricity is converted into heat. However, relying on grid electricity can lead to high running costs, making this option less viable in isolation.
The game-changer is pairing an electric boiler with a Solar PV (Photovoltaic) system.
Why it’s efficient
By installing a solar array, you can generate free, clean electricity to power the boiler. This combination creates an ultimate low-carbon heating system where the running cost of heating is drastically reduced, sometimes making it cheaper than running even a gas boiler. This setup is particularly effective in well-insulated, smaller homes or for properties located off the gas grid.
The verdict: Finding your most efficient system
There is no single “best” option—the most energy efficient heating system is the one perfectly matched to your home.
Whichever route you go down, start your journey to lower bills and a greener home by getting quotes from certified installers who can assess your property’s specific needs.
With Rated People, you have the power to get it done. Find a trusted, local tradesperson today.
