Winter in Britain is no joke — it’s cold, damp, and the days are short. So it’s no surprise that the question “how should I heat my home?” comes up every year. And after the 2022 spikes in gas and electricity prices, the issue has become even more pressing. Let’s take a look at what heating options Brits are using today — and which one might work best for you.
1. Gas Boilers – Still the Most Popular
If your home is connected to the gas grid — lucky you! You can go with the most common and, for now, the cheapest heating option. A gas boiler heats water, which is then pumped through pipes and radiators around the house.
Pros:
- Cheaper than electricity (about 3x cheaper)
- Still works even if the power goes out
- Suitable for central heating and hot water
Cons:
- Only makes sense if your home is already connected to the gas grid
- From 2027, new homes may no longer be allowed to install gas boilers
Installation: £2,500 to £5,000
Annual cost: Around £860 (based on a typical 2–3 bedroom house)
2. Oil and LPG – For Homes Without Gas
In rural areas or remote regions, many homes use oil or LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) boilers. They work similarly to gas boilers, but the fuel is stored in a large tank outside the home.
Pros:
- Fully independent system, doesn’t rely on the gas grid
- LPG can be easier to source than mains gas in some areas
Cons:
- You’ll need outdoor space for the fuel tank
- Prices for oil and LPG can be unpredictable
- From 2035, new installations may be banned
Installation:
– LPG: £3,300 to £5,300
– Oil boiler: £1,500 to £4,500
Annual cost:
– LPG: around £1,430
– Oil: around £700
3. Electric Heating – Simple but Pricey
If there’s no gas and no plans to get connected, many people turn to electric heating. You’ve got two main choices here: a full electric boiler and central heating system, or a mix of room heaters and immersion water heaters.
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Greener than oil or gas
- Electric boilers are very efficient (up to 98%)
Cons:
- High running costs
- Immersion heaters (those big water tanks) are electricity guzzlers
- Often no central system, which means separate heaters for each room
Installation:
– Electric boiler: £1,500 to £5,000
– Storage heaters: £700 to £1,600
– Hot water tank: around £2,000
Annual cost:
– Electric boiler: around £3,000
– Heaters + tank: up to £3,500
4. Heat Pumps – Modern and Eco-Friendly
These systems pull heat from the air or ground and transfer it into your home. They run on electricity, but very efficiently — producing about 3 times more heat per kilowatt than a traditional boiler.
Pros:
- Very efficient
- Can reduce energy bills long-term
- Government grants available (up to £7,500)
Cons:
- Expensive to install
- Needs proper planning and installation
Installation: £10,000 to £18,000
Annual cost: around £1,100
5. Biomass – Like a Smart Wood Stove
Love the idea of heating with wood or pellets? Then a biomass boiler might suit you. It works with your heating system just like a regular boiler, but runs on compressed wood pellets.
Pros:
- Fuel can be cheaper than gas
- Government grants up to £5,000 available
Cons:
- Takes up more space
- Installation can be pricey
Installation: £4,000 to £15,000
Annual cost: £500 to £1,000 (depending on pellet prices)
6. Solar Panels – Great for Summer, Not Enough for Winter
Solar thermal panels can heat your water during the summer months. They transfer energy to a water cylinder and can fully meet your hot water needs during sunny periods. But sadly, they’re not enough to heat your whole home in winter.
Pros:
- Almost free hot water in summer
- Environmentally friendly
Cons:
- Won’t fully replace a heating system
- Installation isn’t cheap
Installation: £3,000 to £6,000
So, What Should You Choose?
- Got gas? A gas boiler is likely your best option.
- Living in the countryside? Consider oil or LPG.
- Only electricity? Look into storage heaters or a heat pump.
- Want to go green? Biomass and heat pumps are great choices.
- Thinking long-term? Get solar panels at least for water heating.
Hopefully, you now have a clearer picture of the home heating options in the UK. If you’re aiming for warmth, comfort, and savings — weigh the pros and cons carefully. Then go with the choice that fits your needs and budget best.