Homes in the UK lose heat a lot faster compared to their European neighbours. A recent Tado study, in fact, shows how UK homes lose an average of 3°C after five hours, which means that most British heating systems aren’t energy efficient and need to work harder to maintain a home’s temperature. The study also notes how less than 2% of British homes have top ratings in terms of energy efficiency. All of this underscores how the UK’s heating systems still lag behind the rest of Europe’s. Despite this, UK homeowners have a range of energy-efficient solutions that can help them save energy and decrease their home’s carbon footprint. In this article we will look at the country’s current home heating market and where it may go in the future.
Gas boiler central heating is the most popular option
Gas boiler central heating is the most popular home heating method across the UK. A 4,224-respondent study via Statista indicates that 86% of Brits still rely on boiler-based central heating to heat their homes. The remaining 14% rely on oil, electric, and portable heating methods.
Much of this is because gas-powered central heating has been the standard temperature regulation method in British homes for decades. This is why they are the most affordable option, with HomeServe noting that insurance for gas boilers can cost as low as £8 per month. With a well-maintained system, gas central heating can be a highly reliable and efficient way of heating any home. And as maintenance service providers make it easier for homeowners to maintain their existing gas boiler systems, the majority of the country will likely continue to employ this convenient and affordable home heating method. This is despite a drive from the government to move away from this heating method (see below).
Technology Magazine reports that there is a burgeoning market for underfloor heating amongst developed countries, largely because there is a global demand for energy efficient home solutions. This is why underfloor heating has become a popular option in Europe, where the European Commission has mandated a 30% energy efficiency target by 2030.
Crucially, underfloor heating is riding an increase in popularity in the UK. In fact, as many as 70% of surveyed homeowners admit to installing this energy-efficient solution, with 74% setting it up in one room and 58% installing it in the bathroom. Overall, the UK underfloor heating market is forecast to grow at a rate of 7% in the next seven years. Aside from being energy-efficient, underfloor heating is also space-friendly, as it no longer requires the placement of often bulky radiators. However, the initial investment of installation can cost between £12 to £14 per square foot. Although installation can be costly, the system leads to long-term financial gains because of its energy efficiency. In fact, it can lower a home’s energy bill by as much as 15%, as the system distributes heat equally, thereby requiring lower temperatures compared to traditional heating methods. In other words, underfloor heating systems are a low-maintenance addition that keeps homes both warm and environment friendly. Given these benefits, that predicted growth rate of 7% in 7 years looks attainable.
The future of the British home heating market
The UK government has recommended replacing gas boilers with alternative, low-carbon heating systems in all new homes built after 2025. Properties would be designed to accommodate heat-pumping systems instead of gas boilers. As a result, The Guardian shares how the government’s advisory committee on climate change has been criticised from different sides —from environmentalists saying that the UK needs a more radical and systemic plan, to house builders expressing concerns that alternative heating is often less effective and more expensive compared to traditional methods. Wherever you stand on the matter, one thing is clear: the UK needs to improve its home heating infrastructure in order to become more sustainable.
If you’d like to read more on how homes can be more sustainable, check out our post on Improving Your Home’s Energy Efficiency With Insulation.
