Heat Pump System vs System Boiler
Compare these two popular boiler types to find which suits your home best
Heat Pump System
Low-carbon heating system extracting heat from air or ground.
System Boiler
Boiler that works with a separate hot water cylinder, ideal for homes with multiple bathrooms.
Key Statistics
Advantages Comparison
Heat Pump System Advantages
Low carbon emissions
Uses renewable energy from air or ground, dramatically reducing carbon footprint.
Government grants available
Eligible for Boiler Upgrade Scheme with grants up to £7,500.
Lower running costs long-term
Can be 3-4 times more efficient than traditional boilers.
No fuel storage needed
Doesn't require gas connection or oil tank.
Can provide cooling in summer
Some systems can reverse to provide air conditioning.
Long lifespan
Typically lasts 20+ years with proper maintenance.
System Boiler Advantages
Multiple taps simultaneously
Can supply hot water to multiple outlets at the same time without pressure drop.
Compatible with solar panels
Works well with solar thermal systems for added efficiency.
Constant hot water supply
Cylinder stores hot water, ensuring supply during high demand periods.
Good for larger homes
Ideal for properties with 3+ bedrooms and multiple bathrooms.
More space than Regular
Doesn't require a cold water tank in the loft, saving some space.
Reliable performance
Proven technology with consistent hot water delivery.
Disadvantages Comparison
Heat Pump System Disadvantages
High upfront cost
Initial installation costs £7,000-£14,000 even with grants.
Requires larger radiators
Often need to upgrade radiators or add underfloor heating.
Lower water temperature
Heats water to 45-50°C vs 70-80°C from gas boiler.
Space needed for unit
Outdoor unit required with space around it for airflow.
Less effective in very cold weather
Efficiency drops when outdoor temperature falls below -5°C.
Noise concerns
Outdoor unit can generate noise, may affect neighbors.
System Boiler Disadvantages
Requires cylinder space
Need room for hot water cylinder, usually in airing cupboard.
Can run out of hot water
Once cylinder empties, need to wait for it to reheat.
Heat loss from cylinder
Stored hot water loses heat over time, slightly less efficient.
More complex installation
Costs more to install than combi boiler due to additional components.
Initial recovery time
Takes time to initially heat up full cylinder after installation.
Space Requirements Comparison
Heat Pump System
Outdoor heat pump unit
Required1200mm H x 1000mm W x 500mm D
Hot water cylinder
Required1800mm H x 600mm diameter
Indoor control unit
Required300mm H x 200mm W x 100mm D
System Boiler
Boiler unit
Required700mm H x 400mm W x 300mm D
Hot water cylinder
Required1500mm H x 450mm diameter
Annual Running Costs Comparison
| Property Size | Heat Pump System | System Boiler | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (1-2 bed) | £850 | £1030 | £180(Heat Pump System cheaper) |
| Medium (3-4 bed) | £1150 | £1505 | £355(Heat Pump System cheaper) |
| Large (4+ bed) | £1450 | £1980 | £530(Heat Pump System cheaper) |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Heat Pump System If...
✓ Best suited for:
Well-insulated properties, homes with space for outdoor unit, new-build properties, properties off gas grid, homes with larger radiators or underfloor heating, environmentally-conscious homeowners eligible for government grants
✗ Not suitable for:
Poorly insulated properties, homes with very limited outdoor space, properties with small radiators that cannot be upgraded, properties where installation cost is prohibitive, homes requiring high-temperature heat
Choose System Boiler If...
✓ Best suited for:
Medium to large homes (3-5 bedrooms) with 2+ bathrooms, properties with multiple family members, homes requiring simultaneous hot water to several outlets, properties suitable for solar thermal panels
✗ Not suitable for:
Small flats or homes with limited space for a cylinder, properties with single bathroom and low hot water usage, homes where space is at an absolute premium
Ready to Get a New Boiler?
Get free quotes from Gas Safe registered installers
Compare prices for both Heat Pump Systems and System Boilers