Understanding the Costs of Central Heating
The cost of installing central heating in a UK home can range widely, typically from £3,100 to £7,700, depending on factors such as the size of your house, your choice of boiler, the number of radiators, and whether extensive pipework is required (WhatCost).
Breakdown of Costs for a Three-Bedroom House
For a three-bedroom house, installing a gas central heating system typically includes:
· Boiler (combi or system): £1,000–£1,700
· Radiators (8–10 units): £1,600–£3,000
· Pipework and labour: £2,000–£3,000
This brings the total cost to £4,300–£7,700.
Cost of Different Heating Systems
When considering central heating installation, it’s helpful to understand how it stacks up against other systems*:
| Heating System | Installation Cost | Annual Running Cost | Efficiency |
| Gas Central Heating | £3,100–£7,700 | £850–£900 | High (92-95%) |
| Electric Heating | £500–£2,500 | £3,200 | Very High (99%) |
| Air Source Heat Pumps | £7,000–£13,500 | £855–£1,700 | High (300-400%) |
| Biomass Boilers | £9,000–£20,000 | £1,660 | Moderate (89–91%) |
Gas central heating remains a popular and cost-effective choice, but alternatives like heat pumps are growing in popularity for their environmental benefits (EDF Energy).
Why Choose Central Heating?
Central heating systems, particularly gas-powered ones, are still widely used in the UK for several reasons:
Cost-Effectiveness:
Gas is currently cheaper than electricity, making central heating more affordable to run.
Comfort and Convenience:
Radiators provide even heat distribution, and modern boilers offer on-demand hot water.
Efficiency Advances:
Modern condensing boilers achieve efficiency rates over 90%, helping reduce fuel costs and emissions (Boiler Guide).
Exploring Government Energy Grants
If the upfront cost of installing central heating is a concern, there are government grants and schemes available to help homeowners make energy-efficient improvements.
Available Grants
ECO4 Scheme
Covers installations like boilers or heat pumps for low-income households.
Eligibility depends on factors like income and property insulation.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
Provides up to £7,500 for heat pump installations in England and Wales (GreenMatch).
Local Authority Flexibility Funding
Offers broader eligibility criteria, enabling non-benefit households to access funding.
How to Apply
Checking eligibility is straight-forward with a free home survey provided by companies involved in government-backed schemes (Lifetime Savings).
See If You Qualify for a Grant
Considering Environmental Impacts
Carbon Footprint Comparisons
Gas heating is a fossil fuel-based system, producing 2.64 tonnes of CO2 annually per household using an A-rated boiler. By contrast, air source heat pumps generate significantly lower emissions and derive 75% of their heat from renewable sources (EDF Energy; GreenMatch).
Government Initiatives
The UK government aims to phase out the installation of gas boilers in new homes by 2025 as part of its target to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Investing in eco-friendly systems now can future-proof your home.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Heating System
Installing central heating (or upgrading to a modern system) comes with many advantages:
Financial
New systems are more efficient, reducing fuel costs by up to £490 annually for A-rated boilers (Boiler Guide).
Comfort and Health
Improved temperature control creates a healthier indoor environment. Plus, modern heating controls, like smart thermostats, enable precise room-by-room management.
Property Value
Homes with energy-efficient systems tend to sell faster and for higher prices.
Eco-Benefits
Upgraded systems reduce your household’s carbon footprint, contributing to global sustainability efforts.
Take Action Now
If you’re considering installing or upgrading central heating, don’t forget to explore government grants and gather quotes from multiple installers to ensure the best deal. A more efficient, eco-friendly heating system may not only save you money but also make your home more comfortable and sustainable for years to come.
Find out more about heating grants by
starting your application today!
*Information correct as of June 2025.