Compare your options
| Item | Budget / requirement | How to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Gas boiler | Existing gas supply and flue arrangements | Compare condition, replacement scope, hot-water demand and controls. |
| Air-to-water heat pump | Outdoor equipment and a compatible wet heating system | Assess heat loss, emitters, pipework, cylinder space and electrical work. |
| Air-to-air system | Room heating and cooling through indoor units | Assess room coverage and provide a separate hot-water solution where needed. |
Reference figures are not Aura prices. Confirm the complete scope and total payable, including the applicable VAT treatment, in your written quotation.
Start with your reason for changing
An unreliable boiler, a planned refurbishment and a desire for lower-carbon heating are different starting points. If the current system can be repaired economically, there may be time to assess a wider upgrade properly. If heating has failed, agree the immediate needs separately from longer-term improvements.
Space and disruption
A combi replacement can retain a familiar arrangement, although the installation still needs assessment. Moving to an air-to-water heat pump may add a cylinder and require radiator or electrical work. Air-to-air equipment can serve selected rooms, but does not automatically replace the existing wet system or hot-water provision.
Compare cost per unit of useful heat
For a simplified comparison, divide electricity price per kWh by assumed seasonal heat-pump performance. Divide gas price per kWh by assumed boiler efficiency expressed as a decimal. These estimates exclude standing charges, maintenance and installation. Use actual tariffs and realistic system assumptions rather than advertised best-case efficiency.
An illustrative comparison, not a savings promise
At an assumed 25p electricity tariff and seasonal performance of 3.5, useful heat would cost about 7.1p per kWh. At an assumed 6p gas tariff and 90% boiler efficiency, it would cost about 6.7p. Change those assumptions and the comparison changes. These are worked examples, not current prices or a forecast for your home.
Comfort and operating pattern
A heat pump may be designed to maintain comfort over longer periods at lower water temperatures. A household used to short bursts of heating may need a different schedule. Discuss how the controls will work and whether the radiator output is sufficient in every room. Good design and handover matter whichever heat source is selected.
When to get a detailed survey
If you are considering a fuel change, have persistent cold rooms or plan a major extension, request a system assessment. Bring available plans, energy use, radiator information and renovation proposals. Ask which decisions can be made now and which need measurements or confirmation on site.
Your quotation checklist
- Exact equipment and the rooms or functions it will serve
- Survey, installation, access and any additional trades
- Controls, commissioning and handover documents
- Warranty conditions, servicing and support arrangements
- Full price, VAT treatment, exclusions and payment stages
Explore heat pump design & heat-loss calculations with Aura →
Your questions answered
Is a heat pump always the cheapest option?
No. Installation scope, funding eligibility, tariffs, seasonal performance and maintenance all affect total cost.
Can Aura discuss boilers and heat pumps together?
Aura’s advertised service range includes both. Explain your current system and priorities so the appropriate assessment and delivery arrangements can be confirmed.
Useful independent guidance
- Energy Saving Trust: boiler types and replacement costs
- Energy Saving Trust: air source heat pumps
- Vaillant: heat pumps and existing radiators
Guidance checked 10 October 2026. Always use the instructions for your equipment and confirm current requirements for your project.