Is It Worth Replacing A Working Boiler With A Heat Pump?

Change is in the air and in the pipes of many people looking for a boiler installation to replace their existing units, particularly since a new energy-efficient combi boiler is not the only option.

According to the most recent statistics for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, 2024 is likely to be a record-breaking year for the installation of energy-efficient low-carbon heating solutions, with over 40,000 having been installed up until August alone, compared to 40,426 in 2023.

The overwhelming majority of work (98 per cent) claimed under the BUS was for heat pumps, as opposed to the biomass boilers also included under the scheme, which highlights the increased interest in heat pumps and availability of installers to provide a replacement for conventional boilers.

However, this also begs the question of when the right time is to replace a boiler with a heat pump. For example, if your boiler is working fine with no major issues, should you consider ripping it out in favour of a heat pump?

Whilst people are free to do whatever they like with their own homes, there is no obligation to replace a boiler that is working fine with an alternative. Even when the time comes to replace your boiler, you can still choose another one for a more efficient like-for-like swap.

Heat pumps are best suited for new build homes designed to take full advantage of their heating potential, and whilst retrofitting is highly effective, not every home will benefit equally without changes to systems such as insulation.

At the same time, however, the scheme offers such a discount that in some cases it can be installed for as little as £500, compared to the £10,000 quotes that were seen just a few years ago, with modest upgrade voucher schemes that still put it out of reach.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to a range of individual factors, but contacting a heating expert can help you make the right choice for your home.