Alternatives To Oil Boilers

The emphasis on green living means that oil boilers are in the spotlight, mostly for the wrong reasons. 

While these boilers are reliable and somewhat affordable for homes across the UK—especially in rural areas, they’re also not the most sustainable solutions. 

With increasing oil prices and growing concerns about carbon emissions, many homeowners are seeking greener alternatives to oil boilers. 

If you’re considering replacing your oil boiler, we’re about to reveal some great alternatives that offer efficiency, sustainability, and long-term savings.

Let’s jump straight in. 

The problem with oil boilers 

Oil boilers are a popular solution for properties without a gas grid connection, making them common in rural properties. While oil boilers used to be one of the most popular solutions, many households without gas opt for electric heating solutions instead. 

According to government research, oil boilers, including gas boilers, have the highest carbon emissions of all heating solutions. 

The average oil boiler emits over six tonnes of carbon dioxide per 20MWh of power, the same as ten flights between New York and London. 

The truth is that oil boilers can’t contribute to a sustainable future or support the government’s Net Zero Strategy, which has a 2050 target. 

That’s why looking for alternatives is vital. Let’s explore the most sustainable solutions when switching from an oil boiler. 

Gas boilers

Gas boilers are the most common solution for homes with a supply, as natural gas is cheaper than oil and more sustainable. While older models produced high levels of carbon emissions, modern boilers are more energy efficient.

Many people choose them for their reliability and convenience. Modern systems are easy to integrate with zonal heating controls and smart thermostats.

Despite technological advances, there’s one thing gas boilers can’t do: reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.

The average gas boiler releases enough emissions to cover seven transatlantic flights yearly, posing significant environmental threats (Nesta).

Electric boilers

Electric boilers provide a simple and relatively inexpensive installation alternative to oil boilers, especially in smaller homes or properties with lower heating requirements.

They don’t require oil or gas, making them more sustainable than traditional boilers. The main drawback of electric boilers is their reliance on electricity, which still presents sustainability issues.

While electricity is more expensive than gas, installing solar panels is an excellent way to reduce energy bills and contribute to the environment.

The panels use solar energy to produce electricity, reducing your reliance on the grid. 

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are still relatively new to the UK, but they’re making a massive impact. Why? Because heat pumps are environmentally friendly, energy-efficient and affordable.

They don’t require fossil fuels to run and generate energy from natural sources. Most homeowners in the UK choose the following pumps:

• Air-Source Heat Pumps: As the most flexible solution, air-source heat pumps are suitable for most properties in the UK. They collect heat from the air and convert it into energy.
• Ground-Source Heat Pumps: If you have a large outdoor space or are willing to spend extra on a vertical installation, ground-source heat pumps offer the most consistency. They collect heat from the earth and convert it into energy.

Although they require electricity to operate, heat pumps are the more efficient solution when compared to alternative heating methods, making them a wise investment for the future.

Households across the UK can also access a range of green energy grants, making installation more affordable.

Biomass boilers

Biomass boilers burn organic materials, including wood pellets, logs, and chips, to generate heat.

Plants offset any carbon dioxide the boilers release during their lifetime.

Biomass boilers are popular if you want to reduce your carbon footprint without learning how to use a new system.

The downside is that biomass boilers require more space than traditional boilers, and some people might find the maintenance off-putting.  

Solar thermal systems

Solar thermal systems are similar to solar panels, as they rely on the sun’s energy to power a property. But, instead of electricity, thermal systems can provide hot water for a property.

They work by using roof-mounted solar panels that absorb sunlight, heating fluids stored in a cylinder.

While solar thermal systems are highly sustainable, they still rely on sunlight, which means you won’t generate enough power during the colder months.  

Hybrid heating systems can combine conventional heating methods with modern and energy-efficient alternatives. 

For example, you could install a heat pump with your conventional boiler, which might be beneficial in the colder months. 

The main downside of this plan is that you won’t be able to access most grants as you’re not replacing the fossil fuel system. 

Solar panels and heat pumps are another popular combination. The solar panels collect energy to generate electricity, which runs the heat pump and saves money. 

Hydrogen boilers

Hydrogen boilers aren’t currently available in the UK, but they’re generating huge interest. While they work similarly to gas boilers, these devices burn hydrogen instead of gas, a zero-emission fuel type.

The UK and other countries are currently exploring hydrogen as a potential gas replacement, and we can expect to see advances in the future—once there’s a solution for hydrogen production and distribution issues. 

Choosing the right solution for your needs

All of the above oil boiler alternatives offer unique advantages, but the right one for your needs depends on the following factors:

• Budget and Upfront Costs: Gas boilers are cheaper upfront than biomass boilers and heat pumps, but you should still consider the long-term expenses. Heat pumps cost more upfront, but they offer long-term savings.
• Energy Efficiency: If reducing your energy consumption is a top priority, heat pumps and hybrid systems are among the most energy-efficient solutions available. These solutions are paving the way for a greener future.
• Property Type: Your property’s size and insulation quality should also play a role in finding an appropriate heating solution. Larger properties with poor insulation may require a hybrid system or a more powerful biomass boiler to ensure consistent warmth.

Final thoughts 

When choosing an oil boiler alternative, remember to consider the long-term savings instead of just the outright costs. Electric boilers might offer some benefits, but heat pumps will play key roles in the government’s Net Zero Strategy. 

If you’d like to explore heat pump installation, Please contact us today for a free quote.