The UK government has unveiled its plan to move homes away from gas boilers, but is it a full ban or just warm words?

The policy called a “confirmed ambition” by ministers, aims to see all new heating systems in UK homes be low-carbon by 2035. However, unlike other climate targets, this one doesn’t have the force of law behind it.

This has sparked debate. Some experts say it could be enough to drive change, as long as everyone treats it like a ban. Others fear it gives the government wiggle room and could ultimately lead to higher emissions.

Environmental groups are calling for tougher action, including more funding to make alternatives like heat pumps affordable and a potential future legal ban as a backstop.

The government is defending its approach, saying it will invest more to help people switch to low-carbon heating, but critics say this falls far short of what’s needed.

They also warn that relying on “blue hydrogen” as a future fuel source could lock the UK into fossil fuels, despite promises to prioritize “green hydrogen”.

While the public broadly supports action on climate change, only 6% of homes currently have low-carbon heating systems. The policy was originally due in July but was delayed due to concerns from MPs about the cost burden on households.

The Prime Minister has tried to reassure people they won’t be forced to rip out their existing boilers, calling the idea “nonsense”.

But with questions remaining about the effectiveness of the plan and its commitment to clean energy, the government faces a challenge in convincing everyone this is a genuine step towards a greener future.

Delay hits oil, LPG boilers, and new coal heating for off-grid homes; phased out by 2035 instead of the initially proposed 2026. Gas boiler sale cut-off stands at 2035, but exemptions are granted for financially strapped households facing the switch.

But boiler upgrade grants such as eco4 get a boost – now £7,500, up by 50% – aiding households opting for low-carbon alternatives like heat pumps.

What does this signify for homeowners with the current boilers?

Existing boilers need not be scrapped – homeowners can breathe a sigh of relief. However, the game changes for new boiler installations in homes post-2035. So no new gas boilers are allowed, reshaping the heating landscape.

Moreover, property developers also face restrictions. They’re barred from incorporating these boilers in new builds starting from the same critical date. So the shift is on, and it’s time for a greener approach to heating our homes.

Why is there a crackdown on natural boilers?

Without a doubt, gas boilers are a climate hurdle for net zero by 2050. That’s why they face a crackdown. They, in fact, emit a massive 58.5 million tons of CO2 yearly, beating 27 million cars at 56 million tons. Therefore, homes, not cars, pose a greater climate risk.

Consequently, tackling emissions is essential. As a matter of fact, only one million UK homes use low-carbon heating. And as many as 29 million still keep sticking to boilers connected to mains. So the crackdown aims to shift the balance. It is guiding us towards a greener future.

What will replace gas boilers?

As fossil-fuel boilers face the exit, heat pumps emerge as a leading home-heating contender.

The government is exploring hydrogen to replace natural gas for net-zero emissions, but hurdles arise. But there are challenges in replacing pipework. So this is making hydrogen’s role uncertain for swift adoption.

While a hydrogen future is envisioned, heat pumps take the spotlight. They’re poised to become a common choice as we usher in a new era of eco-friendly home heating. But apart from heat pumps, there are several other options. For example, there are biomass boilers, solar panels hydrogen boilers, etc.

What are the alternatives?

Heat Pumps

As mentioned earlier, gas boiler alternatives are on the rise, and heat pumps are taking centre stage. Fundamentally, three main types of these pumps exist. Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs), Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs), and Hybrid Heat Pumps.

ASHPs grab electricity from the air, extracting natural heat to warm homes efficiently. GSHPs tap into the ground’s heat, a solid option for heating systems. Hybrid Heat Pumps blend a heat pump with another source like a boiler, providing flexibility.

The government backs these systems for their energy efficiency. It believes that these are three to four times better than traditional boilers. Installing an ASHP in a four-bedroom house can save £395-£425 compared to a ‘G-rated’ gas boiler, says the Energy Saving Trust.

Yet, not all homes fit the bill. ASHPs need exterior and interior space, while GSHPs demand outdoor space for buried tubes and interior room for a hot water cylinder. Cost is a factor. Presently, heat pumps range from £6,000 to £18,000, though long-term savings make them an attractive eco-friendly investment.

Hydrogen Boilers

The government champions hydrogen boilers for future home heating – a green solution with water as its by-product, transforming the gas grid.

For homes unsuitable for heat pumps, hydrogen boilers emerge as a potential low-carbon system. Ongoing UK trials, led by Baxi Heating and Worcester Bosch, test the safety and effectiveness of 100% hydrogen boilers. Manufacturers like Viessmann step up with hydrogen-ready boilers, aiming for a seamless swap with the existing majority of boilers. They can run on a mix of 20% hydrogen and 80% natural gas.

Hold on – not available until 2026 at the earliest! Government delays decision on integrating hydrogen heating, leaving the nation awaiting a green home revolution.

Infrared Panels

Infrared heating panels, priced between £120 and £180, present a wallet-friendly solution for homes.

Ideal as the primary heating source or as supplementary heaters alongside central heating, these panels offer versatility.

Quick and easy accessibility – find infrared heat panels on Amazon, bringing warmth at your fingertips. Embrace cost-effective comfort in the age of home heating evolution.

Solar Thermal Panels

Tap into the power of the sun with solar thermal panels, designed for hot water generation alongside your heating setup.

Combined with a boiler or heat pump for double the impact, they reduce heating costs. Moreover, they’re gentle on your budget.

A two- or three-panel solar thermal system is ideal for a 200-to-300-litre cylinder. They cost you between £4,000 to £7,000. So step into a sunny world of sustainable, pocket-friendly heating.

Biomass Boilers

Biomass boilers are changing the game in home heating, offering an eco-friendly way to keep warm by burning wood pellets, logs, or chips.

Imagine them as compact filing cabinets, each with its own size. Wood pellet boilers fit neatly into utility rooms, while larger log boilers may need dedicated storage space – plus, room for fuel storage!

Let’s talk costs. While biomass boilers might be a bit pricier upfront, the promise of long-term savings is substantial. A fully automated wood pellet boiler will set you back anywhere from £11,000 to £25,000, making it an ideal investment for larger and harder-to-heat properties.

Is it worth purchasing a new gas boiler?

As the future for gas boilers dims, considering low-carbon alternatives is prudent for heating your home. The boiler ban won’t impact existing homes, but it’s wise to prepare for the inevitable shift.

When the time comes to replace your boiler, compare costs and explore alternatives. Not every UK home is suited for heat pumps, especially those lacking insulation and sufficient heaters.

But it is anticipated that the government will launch grants and incentives in the future that will encourage a shift away from these boilers. Consequently, the transition to low-carbon heating systems becomes a priority. It is signaling a sustainable future for the UK.