Gas boilers vs electric boilers

Find out the difference between a gas and an electric boiler. Choose the best boiler for your home.

Electric vs gas: which is the best boiler for me?

We understand that choosing the best boiler for your home can be confusing. With so many different boiler types out there, it’s often difficult to know where to start. One of the main considerations when buying a new boiler is to choose the fuel type. Two of the most common types of boiler heating systems are gas and electric.

What is a gas boiler?

As the name suggests, a gas boiler uses natural gas to heat your home and water system. It does this by pumping water over a series of gas flames in the boiler. Once heated, the water is then delivered straight to your radiators and taps – keeping your home cosy and your showers hot.

Gas boilers are extremely common. In fact, they are the most commonly installed heating systems in the UK, accounting for roughly 80% of all boilers.

If you are looking to install a new gas boiler (or to replace your old one), there are three main types of gas boiler to choose from: combi boiler, regular boiler or system boiler.

Get an online quote for a gas boiler

What is an electric boiler?

An electric boiler serves exactly the same function as a gas boiler, but it is fuelled by electricity instead of gas. Rather than burning gas fuel, electric boilers convert electricity into heat to warm up the water that provides heating for your home and taps.

Electric boilers are less common than gas boilers, but they are a good solution if your home isn’t connected to a gas network.

Electric boiler vs gas boiler: what are the pros and cons?

So, which boiler type is right for you? When it comes to choosing between a gas or electric boiler, it’s important to consider the benefits and disadvantages of both types – including the heating demands of your home, energy efficiency rating, boiler maintenance and cost.

To help you decide, we have compiled a quick, at-a-glance overview of the pros and cons of both electric and gas boilers:

Gas boiler pros
- Gas is typically a cheaper fuel than electricity
- Suitable for large homes where steady hot water supply is in high demand
- There is a large market of gas boilers, giving you a greater range to choose from
- Boiler replacement is quick and simple
- All new condensing gas boilers are energy-efficient
Gas boiler cons
- Installation may be more expensive than for an electric boiler
- Will usually take up more space than an electric boiler
- May require more frequent servicing
- Not all homes are connected to a gas network

Electric boiler pros
- Electricity is a greener fuel type –no fossil fuels are burnt to fuel your boiler
- Zero risk of potential gas leakage
- Runs with minimal noise
- Don't require a flue or chimney
Electric boiler cons
- Electric boilers are typically more expensive to run than gas boilers
- Not recommended for large homes –unable to meet high heating and hot water demand
- Power cuts may impact your access to heating and hot water

Get an online quote for a gas boiler

Searching for your new boiler? Here at E.ON we only offer gas boilers - you can get an online boiler quote in just two minutes using our simple online tool. Or, if you need help when choosing a new gas boiler, you can book a free video call with one of our heating experts.

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