Electric Radiators vs Gas Central Heating Comparison 2025

Electric radiators vs gas central heating: cost comparison for 2025

Keeping warm in the UK is getting more expensive. Rising wholesale energy prices and the gradual shift away from fossil fuels mean householders need to understand how different heating systems affect their bills. In this article we compare electric radiators and gas central heating in 2025, focusing on installation and running costs, maintenance, control and comfort, environmental impact and long‑term trends. Throughout the guide we’ll use up‑to‑date figures from the 2025 energy price cap and industry sources to give an impartial picture. Internal links point to relevant pages on the Electrorad site for further information or quotations.

Understanding energy costs in 2025

The UK’s energy price cap is reviewed every three months. For April–June 2025 the cap sets unit prices at 27.03 pence per kWh for electricity and 6.99 pence per kWh for gas, with daily standing charges of 53.80 p and 32.67 p respectively. . In July 2025 the cap falls slightly to 25.73 p/kWh for electricity and 6.33 p/kWh for gas, with standing charges of 51.37 p and 29.82 p. . Because electricity remains roughly four times more expensive per unit than gas, this price differential is a key factor in running costs. A 2025 comparison of boiler running costs illustrates the difference: a modern A‑rated gas boiler costs around £620–£1,260 per year to run, whereas a comparable electric boiler costs about £1,700 per year

Energy price cap per kWh (April – September 2025)

These rates represent the maximum suppliers may charge per unit of energy on standard tariffs. Households with higher consumption will pay more overall, while those with good insulation and efficient appliances may see lower bills. When comparing heating systems it’s therefore important to factor in both energy costs and the efficiency of the heating equipment.

Installation cost and complexity

Gas central heating

Gas central heating requires a boiler, network of copper pipes and radiators throughout the property. The average supply and installation cost for a modern gas boiler in 2025 is around £3,450. Installation is disruptive because pipework has to be laid under floors and through walls. Additional costs such as a flue (£200–£700) and gas piping (£250–£400) can increase the final bill. Larger homes often need boilers rated between 28 kW and 42 kW or more, pushing costs higher.

Electric boilers and radiators

A basic electric boiler typically costs £3,250 to supply and install. Installation is straightforward: most electric boilers or radiators connect directly to the mains without a flue or gas pipe. For larger systems, an upgrade from single‑phase to three‑phase power (costing £3,000–£8,000) may be necessary, but this is uncommon in domestic properties. Stand‑alone electric radiators are even simpler – each unit is mounted on the wall and wired to a fused spur or plugged in. There is no need for pipework or a boiler, so installation costs are low.

Running costs and efficiency

Gas heating

Gas remains cheaper per kWh than electricity. A modern condensing gas boiler operates at 90–95 % efficiency, meaning most of the energy content of the gas is converted into heat. However, heat loss occurs along the pipework and through older radiators; as boilers age, efficiency declines significantly. Running a whole‑house gas system is generally the cheapest option for consistent heating, especially in large or poorly insulated homes.

Electric Radiators

Electric resistance heaters convert 100 % of the electricity into heat at the point of use. There are no boiler or pipe losses, and smart thermostats mean each room can be heated independently. Although the unit cost of electricity is higher, electric radiators excel at zonal heating – they are ideal for heating a single room or extension without firing up a 30 kW boiler. Modern electric radiators incorporate programmable timers, adaptive start and open‑window detection to minimise wasted energy. Combined with good insulation, these features can reduce overall consumption and offset part of the unit‑price disadvantage.

Annual running‑cost comparison

Running‑cost estimates based on energy price cap rates and average annual heating demand (≈11,212 kWh) for a two‑bedroom home

Maintenance and lifespan

Gas boilers have multiple moving parts (burner, pump, heat exchanger, flue fan, valves) and must be serviced annually by a Gas Safe engineer. Regular servicing, bleeding of radiators and corrosion inhibitors are necessary to keep the system safe and efficient. . Boilers generally last 10–15 years and replacement boilers cost several thousand pounds. Old boilers can run at only 70–80 % efficiency, increasing fuel consumption.

Electric radiators have no moving parts and contain no water; there are no pumps or pipes to leak, and they do not require annual servicing. High‑quality radiators typically last 15–25 years. . This “fit‑and‑forget” nature makes them attractive for busy households or rental properties where maintenance visits are inconvenient.

Comfort, control and flexibility

Gas central heating is usually controlled by a single thermostat and (optionally) thermostatic radiator valves. Because the boiler and water need time to warm up, response times can be slow and it is common to over‑heat some rooms while under‑heating others. Electric radiators, on the other hand, act as individual heating zones. Each unit has its own thermostat and 24/7 programmer, allowing precise room‑by‑room control. They heat up quickly and can be turned on only when needed, which is ideal for home offices, extensions or bathrooms.

Environmental impact and future trends

Natural gas is a fossil fuel; burning it in boilers produces carbon dioxide and, if poorly maintained, risk of carbon‑monoxide leaks. The UK aims to phase out the installation of fossil fuel heating in new homes – the government has consulted on banning new gas boilers in newly built houses from 2025 and off‑grid homes from 2026. Electric radiators emit zero emissions at the point of use. Their environmental impact depends on the carbon intensity of the electricity grid, which is becoming greener: renewable sources supplied around 40 % of UK electricity in 2023. Households with solar panels or renewable tariffs can therefore heat their homes with very low lifetime emissions. Electric heating also aligns with the UK’s energy‑efficiency goals – 9 % of households already used electric central heating in 2021 (up from 8 % in 2011).

Pros and cons summary

How Electrorad can help

Electrorad is the UK’s premier electric‑radiator supplier, offering high‑quality brands such as Accorto, Aeroflow, Digiline, Vanguard, Smartpanel, Contract Panel, Designer Panel, Towel Rails and Thermastore HHR. We import, manufacture and distribute energy‑efficient radiators to homeowners, businesses, housing associations and electrical wholesalers nationwide. Our range includes wall‑mounted and free‑standing options featuring ceramic‑core technology, sleek modern designs and Wi‑Fi‑enabled smart controls. Key benefits of Electrorad radiators include:

• Energy‑efficient technology – engineered to deliver consistent warmth while reducing consumption.
• Smart control systems – Wi‑Fi connectivity allows remote temperature adjustment and programmable schedules.
• Reliable performance – built with high‑quality materials for longevity and dependable operation.
• Sleek, modern aesthetics – stylish designs that complement any interior.
• Enhanced safety – cool‑touch surfaces, overheat protection and child‑lock functions.

These features make Electrorad products ideal for both residential and commercial settings. The company was the first in the UK to import German electric radiators with fire‑clay cores and continues to drive innovation through in‑house research and development.

Resources

• Explore our electric radiators – browse the full range of electric radiators on the Electrorad site.
• Heating calculator – use our free electric heating calculator to find the right size radiator for each room and ensure optimal efficiency.
• Request a quote – if you’d like tailored advice or pricing, our team can help. Visit the request a quote page and one of our experts will be in touch.

Cost‑saving tips for electric heating

• Improve insulation – loft and wall insulation reduce heat loss, allowing electric radiators to run at lower output for shorter periods.
• Use smart scheduling – programme radiators to heat only occupied rooms at the right times. Avoid leaving heaters on when nobody is home.
• Zone your heating – electric radiators are ideal for home offices, bathrooms or extensions where independent control prevents waste.
• Generate your own electricity – if you have solar panels, surplus generation can power electric radiators, reducing reliance on grid electricity.
• Pair with renewable tariffs – choose a green energy supplier to minimise carbon footprint and support the transition to low‑carbon heating.

Conclusion

In 2025, gas central heating remains cheaper to run per kWh, but installation and maintenance costs are higher and the system has a shorter lifespan. Electric radiators offer easier installation, virtually no maintenance, excellent room‑by‑room control and zero on‑site emissions. For whole‑house heating in large properties, gas may still offer lower running costs. However, for targeted heating, modern apartments, extensions or homes with good insulation and renewable electricity, electric radiators can provide cost‑effective and environmentally friendly warmth.

As the UK moves toward net‑zero, electric heating is expected to become the dominant choice. Electrorad’s diverse range of high‑efficiency electric radiators and smart controls help households and businesses prepare for this future. Explore our products, use the heating calculator and request a quote to find the ideal solution for your home or project.

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