Running Costs explained: Electric Boilers vs Gas Boilers – Updated August 2024
12/08/2024
Running Costs explained: Electric Boilers vs Gas Boilers – Updated August 2024
Choosing the right heating system is crucial for your home’s comfort, efficiency, and environmental impact. For years, gas boilers have dominated British households, but with the UK’s commitment to Net Zero by 2050, there’s a growing shift towards greener alternatives.
Heat pumps are a popular option, but they’re not suitable for every home. Enter electric boilers — an efficient, eco-friendly choice that’s gaining traction. In this post, we’ll compare the ELEKTRA SMART.BPC and Small.BPL 12kW electric combi boiler with a standard 30kW gas boiler to help you make an informed decision.
Energy Usage in the Average UK Home
The average UK household uses around 2,700 kWh of electricity and 11,500 kWh of gas annually, with about 9,200 kWh required for heating and hot water in a three-bedroom home.
Switching to an electric boiler like the ELEKTRA SMART.BPC or Small.BPL 12kW eliminates the need for fossil fuels at the point of use, reducing your carbon footprint. While electricity production still involves some fossil fuels, the energy efficiency of electric boilers generally outperforms gas boilers.
As the UK increasingly adopts renewable energy sources, the environmental and financial benefits of electric boilers will continue to grow. Some homes are already able to heat with minimal costs, a trend likely to expand as renewable energy becomes more widespread.
Cost Considerations: Gas vs. Electric
Gas boilers are cheaper upfront and have lower running costs in the short term. However, the ELEKTRA SMART.BPC or Small.BPL 12kW electric combi boiler, when paired with solar PV and battery storage, can offer significant long-term savings.
While electricity is typically more expensive than gas, the higher efficiency of electric boilers can offset this difference. For homeowners thinking long-term, investing in an electric boiler could prove to be more cost-effective, particularly as energy prices and environmental policies evolve.
Sustainability: Future-Proofing Your Home
When it comes to sustainability, electric combi boilers are the clear winner. They align perfectly with the UK’s Net Zero ambitions by eliminating the risks associated with gas boilers, such as carbon monoxide leaks. Installation is also simpler, especially in properties without an existing gas supply.
The ELEKTRA SMART.BPC and Small.BPL 12kW not only align with the UK’s Net Zero goals but also offer a quiet, efficient, and clean heating solution. It’s a forward-thinking choice for homeowners who want to reduce their environmental impact and future-proof their homes.
Looking to future-proof your home? The ELEKTRA SMART.BPC and Small.BPL 12kWelectric combi boilers are the smart investment, offering a clean, quiet, and efficient heating solution that’s ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
Quick Comparison: 30kW Gas Boiler vs. ELEKTRA Smart BPC Electric Combi Boiler
Feature
30 kW Gas Combi Boiler
12kW electric combi boiler with inbuilt tank
Boiler price
£800 to £2,700
£1299 to £1900 (Small.BPL – Elektra Smart.BPL)
Installation
£1500 (average)
£1500 (average)
Maintenance
Mandatory annually
Every 2 years (recommended)
Maintenance cost
£100 – £150
£180
Spare parts
Easy to find
Easy to find
Installation Flexibility
Requires a flue and gas supply.
No flue required. Compact size. Can be installed virtually anywhere.
Fuel required
Gas and Electricity
Electricity
Meter Standing Charge per day
91.51p (31.41p + 60.1p)
60.1p
Energy Efficiency
90-94%
99.8%
Noise during operation
48-50dB Noise of burning gas and mechanical parts
30 dB. Quiet operation due to minimal amount of moving parts and no burning fuel noise.
Risks
Risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and gas leaks.
N/A
CO2 emissions at point of use
YES: 0.2kg/kW
NO
CO2 emissions per kW of usage
6.42kg
2.7kg (subject to supplier)
The Smarter Choice for a Greener Future
Conclusion
If you’re looking to future-proof your home and reduce your environmental impact, consider switching to an electric boiler. The ELEKTRA SMART.BPC and Small.BPL 12kW offer a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient way to heat your home, aligning with both your financial goals and the UK’s Net Zero ambitions.
Ready to explore your options? Check out the ELEKTRA SMART.BPC or Small.BPL 12kW today and take the first step towards a smarter, greener future.
If you are an existing Customer and want to open a Support Chat, please provide your Name, Postcode, Boiler Model and if possible the Serial Number of your boiler and what's the issue, so we can provide a faster service.
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