Air Source Heat Pump vs a Gas Boiler in a Crowborough Home
Air Source Heat Pump vs a Gas Boiler in a Crowborough Home
Many of our customers in Crowborough and the surrounding villages are being told that air source heat pumps are the future — cheaper to run, better for the environment, and a way to escape rising gas bills.
But is that really true?
As a local plumbing and heating engineer with over 30 years’ experience, I wanted to break down the real running costs of a heat pump compared to a gas boiler — based on a typical four-bedroom detached home here in Crowborough.
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Running Costs – What Are You Really Paying?
Let’s look at the actual numbers.
🔥 Gas Boiler (Modern Combi or System Boiler)
Average usage: 12,000–15,000 kWh per year (heating + hot water)
Gas cost per kWh (2025 average): 7p
Estimated annual cost: £840–£1,050
❄️ Air Source Heat Pump (Properly Installed)
Average usage: 4,000–5,000 kWh per year (uses electricity, but is more efficient)
Electricity cost per kWh: 24p
Estimated annual cost: £960–£1,200
➡️ So, even though a heat pump is more efficient, it often costs more to run due to electricity prices.
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Upfront Installation Costs
New Gas Boiler (combi or system): £2,000–£3,000 (including labour)
Air Source Heat Pump: £9,000–£14,000 (sometimes subsidised with a government grant)
We’ve had customers in Crowborough quoted £12,000+ for a heat pump setup — and that’s before upgrading radiators, adding a cylinder, or upgrading the fuse board.
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What About Hot Water and Comfort?
Here’s something homeowners aren’t always told:
Heat pumps run at lower temperatures, so homes often need larger radiators or underfloor heating to feel properly warm.
Hot water is stored in a cylinder and may take longer to recover — no more “unlimited hot water on demand” like you get with a combi boiler.
If the system isn’t perfectly designed, you might end up with lukewarm rooms and long wait times for hot water.
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So, Should You Switch?
Air source heat pumps do have a place — especially in new-build homes or properties with excellent insulation.
But in our experience around Crowborough, Rotherfield, and Mayfield, many existing homes simply aren’t suitable without big upgrades.
And the idea that you’ll “get rid of your heating bills” is just not true.
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What We Recommend
If your gas boiler is working well and your home is reasonably efficient, you’re likely better off keeping it — and making sure it’s regularly serviced.
If you’re considering a switch, we’re happy to give honest, no-pressure advice based on your specific property.
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Thinking about the future of your heating system in Crowborough?
We’re here to help — whether you stick with gas or consider other options. Give us a call on 01892 652 911 or visit our contact page to book a friendly chat.