Heat Pump Cost Comparison Table: All Heating Systems UK 2026

The definitive side-by-side comparison of every major UK heating system -- using the same property, the same assumptions, and the same methodology. Over 20 years, an ASHP with the BUS grant costs about £40,140 in total on the standard capped electricity rate. The gas boiler costs about £42,350. Direct electric costs a staggering £88,360.

Assumptions: 3-bed semi with 12,000 kWh annual heat demand; prices at the October 2026 Ofgem cap (26.32p electricity, 7.97p gas per kWh plus 29.68p/day gas standing charge, 1 October 2026 to 31 December 2026); heating oil about 11.4p per kWh (around 117p per litre, BoilerJuice average, October 2026, indicative); 3% annual price inflation for all fuels. LPG is not costed because we have no verified current LPG price: use your own delivery price.

All comparisons use a 3-bed semi, 12,000 kWh heat demand, current energy prices with 3% annual inflation. For detailed ASHP costs, see our cost guide. For the heat pump vs gas deep-dive, see our comparison guide.

Installation Cost Comparison

Annual Running Cost Comparison

Heat pump costs are on the standard capped rate; a heat pump tariff lowers them, but rates vary by supplier and region, so check the supplier's current rates (last reviewed October 2026). For detailed running cost analysis, see our running costs guide.

20-Year Total Cost Comparison

Even on the standard capped rate, ASHP and GSHP are the cheapest options over 20 years in this model, and a heat pump tariff widens the gap. Oil is far more expensive at current oil prices, and homes without mains gas replacing oil or LPG get a £9,000 BUS grant (until 31 March 2027), which cuts the ASHP total by a further £1,500. For the full 20-year analysis, see our total cost of ownership guide.

Which System Wins for Each Scenario?

For off-gas properties, ASHP is dramatically cheaper than oil, LPG, or electric over 20 years. For detailed GSHP comparison, see our ground source guide. For personalised comparison, use our calculator.

Homes with solar panels can further reduce heat pump running costs by 15-25%, making the ASHP and GSHP advantage even more pronounced.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest heating system to run?

GSHP, followed by ASHP. At October 2026 price cap rates both are cheaper to run than gas at the efficiencies we assume, and a heat pump tariff widens the gap.

Is a heat pump cheaper than gas over 20 years?

With the BUS grant: about £2,200 cheaper over 20 years on the standard capped rate in our example, and more with a heat pump tariff. Without grant: gas is cheaper at current prices.

Should I choose air source or ground source?

ASHP for most. GSHP if you have land and want maximum efficiency. See our ground source guide.

What about hydrogen boilers?

Not included -- no UK hydrogen grid exists and costs are unknown.

How accurate are these comparisons?

Based on current prices and typical assumptions. Your costs could be 10-20% different. Use our calculator for a property-specific estimate.