Electric boilers have been gaining attention across the UK as a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional gas boilers. With the UK government pushing for reduced carbon emissions and new regulations (like banning gas boilers in new builds from 2025), many homeowners are wondering if electric boilers are truly the future of home heating.
In this article, we’ll explore how electric boilers work, their pros and cons compared to gas boilers and heat pumps, and whether they’re poised to replace conventional heating systems in the coming years.
Why is the UK Moving Away from Gas Boilers?
Domestic heating accounts for around 30% of the UK’s carbon emissions. As part of its climate goals, the government plans to phase out high carbon heating systems. From 2025, newly built homes will no longer be fitted with gas boilers. This push towards low carbon technologies is being driven by both environmental and regulatory pressures.
Alternatives such as electric boilers, heat pumps and heat networks are becoming increasingly viable. Electricity, especially from renewable sources like wind and solar, is seen as a cleaner energy supply. As the grid becomes greener, so does any heating system powered by it.
How Do Electric Combi Boilers Work?
An electric combi boiler uses electricity to heat water for both central heating and domestic hot water, all within a single unit. These boilers are particularly suited to smaller homes and flats.
Unlike traditional systems, electric combi boilers do not need a separate hot water tank or a flue, making installation straightforward. They work by heating water on demand using an internal electric heating element. Many models in the UK are compact enough to fit inside a cupboard, making them ideal for space constrained homes.
Electric combi boilers are highly efficient, converting nearly all the electricity they use into heat. They also have no on site emissions and do not require annual gas safety checks, offering low maintenance heating.
Electric Boiler for Hot Water Only
If you don’t require central heating – for example, if you use electric underfloor heating or storage heaters – you may consider an electric boiler for hot water only. These systems provide hot water to taps and showers but do not heat your radiators.
There are two main types: storage electric water heaters and tankless (instant) electric water heaters. The former heats and stores water for use throughout the day, while the latter heats water on demand. These solutions are ideal for properties with limited hot water requirements.
Electric hot water systems can take advantage of off peak electricity tariffs to help reduce running costs. However, they’re best suited to homes with modest demands – for example, one bathroom and a kitchen.
Electric vs Gas Boiler
When comparing electric vs gas boilers, there are several factors to consider:
- Efficiency: Electric boilers are 99% efficient, meaning nearly all the electricity used goes into heating your home. Modern gas boilers (condensing models) typically operate at 89–95% efficiency.
- Installation and Maintenance: Electric boilers don’t require a flue or gas pipe, making installation easier and often cheaper. Maintenance is minimal – no need for gas safety checks or concerns about carbon monoxide.
- Environmental Impact: Electric boilers produce zero emissions at the point of use. Their overall environmental footprint depends on the electricity mix, which is becoming greener every year. Gas boilers, in contrast, emit carbon dioxide and other pollutants.
- Running Costs: Electricity is currently more expensive than gas per unit in the UK. As a result, electric boilers usually cost more to run, especially in homes with high heating demands. However, they can work well in smaller or highly insulated properties.
- Suitability: For large homes, gas boilers are often still more cost effective. Electric boilers are better suited to smaller houses, flats, or areas not connected to the gas grid.
Electric Boiler vs Heat Pump
When considering future proof heating, many compare electric boilers with heat pumps.
- Efficiency: Heat pumps are significantly more efficient, producing 3 to 4 units of heat for every unit of electricity used. Electric boilers, by contrast, provide a 1:1 ratio. This means heat pumps cost less to run, although they are more expensive to install.
- Heating Style: Heat pumps work best at lower water temperatures and may need larger radiators or underfloor heating. Electric boilers can produce higher temperature water and are often more suitable for direct boiler replacements in older homes.
- Installation and Space: Electric boilers are compact and easy to fit indoors. Heat pumps require an outdoor unit and often a hot water cylinder indoors. Installation is more involved and costly.
- Cost: Heat pumps are eligible for government grants, making them more financially accessible. Despite the upfront cost, their lower running costs can offset this over time. Electric boilers, while cheaper to install, can be more expensive to operate.
Are Electric Boilers the Future?
Electric boilers have a clear role in the future of UK home heating, especially in smaller or off grid homes. They are simple to install, low maintenance, and environmentally friendly when paired with a green electricity supply.
However, they are unlikely to be the only solution. Heat pumps are expected to become the main replacement for gas boilers in most homes due to their high efficiency. Electric boilers are more likely to be a complementary solution – ideal for properties where heat pumps aren’t practical, or as part of hybrid systems.
ROMA Heating
For all your commercial boiler needs look no further than ROMA Heating Services. Whether you need boiler maintenance, repairs, or any other heating solutions, ROMA Heating is here to provide reliable and efficient support.
Contact us today, and let us take care of your heating requirements, so you can enjoy a warm and worry free environment.
- Commercial Boiler Repair: We specialise in diagnosing and resolving issues promptly to minimise downtime and disruptions to your business.
- Commercial Boiler Servicing: Regular servicing ensures that your boiler operates efficiently, reducing the risk of unexpected errors.
- Commercial Boiler Maintenance: Our proactive maintenance plans help extend the lifespan of your boiler and maintain its optimal performance.
When it comes to your commercial boiler, trust the experts at ROMA Heating Services to keep your operations running smoothly.
