With the government pushing for low-carbon heating and energy prices still high, many homeowners across Reigate and the wider Surrey area are wondering whether to stick with a gas boiler or move to a heat pump in 2025. You may be planning a replacement, extension, or full heating upgrade and feeling unsure about what system will serve you best in the years ahead.
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At First Plumbing & Heating Ltd, we provide gas boiler installation in Reigate and surrounding towns. We are also frequently asked about heat pumps. In this blog, we break down the differences, costs, and practical factors to help you make an informed decision based on how you actually live, not just what the headlines say.
What is a heat pump, and how is it different from a gas boiler?
A gas boiler burns natural gas to heat water, which then flows through your radiators and taps. It is a compact system that produces heat quickly and works well with traditional pipework and radiators.
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A heat pump, on the other hand, uses electricity to extract warmth from the air or ground and transfers it into your home. It works effectively at lower temperatures and is most suitable for well-insulated properties with large radiators or underfloor heating. The system is bulkier and usually requires outside space for a unit. Both systems can provide central heating and hot water, but they operate in very different ways. That has a big impact on installation cost, running efficiency, and suitability for your property.
Is a heat pump cheaper to run than a gas boiler?
This is one of the most common questions we get when people compare gas boiler installation in Reigate with the idea of switching to a heat pump. The answer is: it depends on your home.
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Electricity is still more expensive per unit than gas in 2025. That means a heat pump must be extremely efficient to beat the running cost of a modern A-rated gas boiler. In well-insulated new builds, heat pumps can achieve this. In older homes with standard radiators and modest insulation, gas boilers remain more affordable to run.
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Installation cost is also a major factor. A straightforward gas boiler replacement typically costs between £2,000 and £3,500, depending on the type. A heat pump installation can cost upwards of £10,000 once you factor in system upgrades, new cylinders, pipework changes, and possible insulation improvements. Grants like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme may help with upfront costs, but they do not cover everything.
Do heat pumps work well in traditional Surrey homes?
Much of the housing stock in Reigate, Redhill, and nearby towns comprises period homes, solid-wall properties, or houses with limited insulation. These types of buildings lose heat faster and usually have heating systems designed for high-temperature flow from a boiler.
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Heat pumps operate at much lower temperatures and take longer to warm a space. If your home is not well insulated or your radiators are small, a heat pump may struggle to meet your comfort needs without extensive (and expensive) upgrades. Gas boilers, by contrast, operate effectively even in homes that have not undergone major insulation improvements. They deliver instant, high-temperature heat and hot water—something that many families still rely on, especially in colder months.
What is the best choice for 2025?
In our experience fitting boilers across Surrey, the best system is the one that fits your lifestyle, property, and budget. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.
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If you live in a well-insulated property, use electric-only heating already, and want to futureproof your home, a heat pump may be the right option. But if you live in a standard home with gas already in place and want an affordable, powerful, and easy-to-maintain system, a new gas boiler remains the most practical solution in 2025. Most of our customers choose to install a modern gas boiler with efficient controls and upgraded radiators. This provides strong comfort, lower bills, and fewer installation hurdles. It also keeps options open for future improvements as technology continues to evolve.
What about hybrid systems?
Some homeowners are now considering hybrid systems. These pair a heat pump with a gas boiler. The heat pump provides heating during milder months, and the boiler kicks in when outdoor temperatures drop. This type of setup can balance running costs and comfort, though it comes with higher installation costs and more complex controls.
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Hybrid systems can work well in larger homes, but they require a detailed assessment of space, pipework, and heating demand. We can advise if this option might suit your property.
How we help homeowners choose the right system
We do not push you toward one system or another. Our job is to help you make a decision that is right for your home. We begin every project with a full site survey where we assess your insulation, radiator sizes, boiler position, and hot water demand.
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We then explain the options clearly and provide quotes for gas boiler installation, system upgrades, and alternative heating solutions where relevant. We are local, experienced, and always honest. If a heat pump is not right for your property, we will tell you. If your existing boiler can be repaired cost-effectively, we will explain that too.
Book your free heating survey
If you are thinking about replacing your boiler or wondering whether a heat pump is right for your home, contact First Plumbing & Heating Ltd today. We offer expert gas boiler installation in Reigate and help homeowners find the best system for their comfort, budget, and long-term needs.
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We are based nearby, fully qualified, and always happy to help. Book your free site survey today and make an informed decision about your heating future in 2025.