If you are devising a new heating system or are thinking about updating your existing solution, it’s worth weighing up all the options before you make a decision. The aim is to find an option that gives you and your family or business the heating performance required while taking up the least amount of space, minimising costs and reducing carbon emissions. Below are some of the most common heating options, along with the main pros and cons of each.
Gas central heating
Most UK households use gas central heating, which heats water through hot taps and radiators. The average annual cost for heating and hot water using gas is £609 at a consumption rate of 13,500 kWh a year. Modern condensing boilers are highly efficient and easy to repair, and if you’re connected to the gas network you won’t need to store fuel any in your home. However, installing a gas central heating system can be expensive and disruptive.
Electric central heating
Many UK households that are not connected to the gas grid use electric central heating; however the average annual cost for heating and hot water in the UK is £2,053 at a consumption rate of 13,500 kWh a year. The most cost-effective option uses night storage heaters as the electricity is supplied at a cheaper rate during the night-time hours. These heaters give out a slow and steady heat and hot water supply the following day. The most common options are Economy 7 and Economy 10.
Night storage heaters are significantly cheaper to install than gas central heating systems as no pipework is needed, and very little maintenance is required. However, electricity prices are approximately three-and-a-half times higher than gas prices per unit of energy. Furthermore, if you don’t plan ahead you may not have the heat you need at the required time.
Oil central heating
Some households that aren’t connected to the gas grid opt for oil central heating to operate a heat-only or combination condensing boiler. The average annual UK cost of heating and hot water using heating oil is £425 when consuming around 12,500 kWh a year. The oil is delivered and stored in a tank, which you may have to buy or rent from your supplier.
Oil prices fluctuate so you may find that your heating costs are difficult to predict and may not always be cost-effective. However, oil is an efficient fuel so you should enjoy a decent return on each energy unit and most modern oil-burning boilers are highly efficient. You will need to plan your oil supply ahead to ensure that your heating needs are met continuously. It’s also worth remembering that installing an oil central heating system can be costly, and the storage tank may not be aesthetically pleasing and is likely to take up valuable space.
Ask the heating professionals at DHS
Our experienced engineers at DHS will be able to talk you through all the heating options for your home or business, taking into account boiler installation right through to long-term energy prices. We will help to ensure that you get the best value for money while reducing your carbon emissions and enjoying a heating option that works for you and your family. Once you have decided on a system, we can help to install and maintain your heating system to ensure that it is working efficiently.
Call DHS today on 0117 924 7200, email us, or request a call back.
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