Electric Radiators vs Central Heating

With the upcoming gas boiler ban, there’s a lot of talk around switching from wet to electric heating due to its many benefits. But is electric really a better solution for everyone? And what are the markers when it comes to comparing electric radiators vs. central heating?

Here, we look at all the pros and cons when deciding between wet vs. electric heating, and how to get your existing heating system assessed if you want an upgrade.

Pros of Electric Radiators

There are many reasons why so many customers are now choosing energy-efficient electric radiators vs. traditional central heating. Here are the main advantages of making the switch:

Sustainability

The main draw of electric powered radiators is the reduced dependency on fossil fuels and zero carbon dioxide output. In terms of efficiency, they are 100% efficient, meaning that 100% of the power used is turned into heat. Gas heating, on the other hand, typically operates at 78% Annual Fuel Utilisation Efficiency (AFUE), losing around 22% of its heat.

Cost

Another attractive factor when weighing up electric vs. gas heating is cost. With radiators that run off electricity, there’s no wastage, and users have total control over their usage, saving money on energy bills. Unlike boilers, electric systems don’t incur high maintenance costs either. There are no moving parts to be serviced, and the radiators don’t need to be bled for optimum performance.

Installation

Electric radiators typically don’t require anything more than a connection to a household wall socket. This makes them compatible with most properties, regardless of your existing system.

Performance

Electric radiators give heat on demand, reaching full operating temperature in just minutes. Similar to gas heating, an electric radiator spreads heat around the room via convection, maintaining warmth through radiant heat. However, electric heating is much more even, meaning no more cold spots in your home. With an electric system, you can also control what time you want your room to be at your ideal temperature. If you leave a window or door open, the radiator will turn off and turn back on when you close them.

Cons of Electric Heating

While electric is winning the efficiency game, there are some other points to consider before investing. Here are some potential drawbacks:

Electricity Prices

Electricity units are more expensive than gas units per kWh, so to make a saving, it’s important to run your radiators efficiently and that the system is properly installed and matched to your home insulation. People with electric radiators installed only heat rooms as and when they use them. This saves a lot of money in comparison to gas systems.

Initial Cost Outlay

There’s the initial investment to bear in mind if you want to switch. However, installing electric radiators is much more affordable than a new gas central heating system.

Pros of Central Heating

If you are thinking about electric vs. central heating, it’s important to consider all factors. Here are some things that may work in favor of gas:

Gas Prices

Despite being less efficient, gas unit prices are still lower than electricity. This means it can be cheaper to run a gas heating system. Modern boilers are also more efficient than the old ones, which have less energy wastage.

Compatible with Smart Controls

While electric heating systems give you easy room-to-room control through a smart app, gas heating is also compatible with smart thermostat devices, although its not always easy or possible to control each room with a gas system

Cons of Gas Central Heating

It does appear that gas heating has a lot more negatives than positives. Here are the downsides:

Not 100% Efficient

Unlike electric radiators, gas systems produce a lot of energy wastage. Gas systems contribute to green house gasses whilst electricity is clean and environmentally friendly

Cold Spots in the Home

A wet system is not as effective because the heater closest to the boiler is the most efficient, while the one furthest away needs to work harder to maintain its temperature.

Increased Carbon Footprint

Gas boilers burn fossil fuels, contributing to global warming and climate change. Electric heating, with zero carbon output, is a better choice for sustainability. As a company, we’re passionate about protecting and supporting the planet for future generations which is why Electric Radiators just make sense!

Regular Maintenance Required

Annual servicing by a Gas Safety engineer is required, and old boilers are often vulnerable to leaks, leading to more costs and inconveniences.

Case Study: Mr. Everitt’s Experience Switching from Gas to Electric Heating

Mr. Everitt approached North East Heating Solutions about switching from his wet heating system when he had a leak in his bathroom and bedroom radiators. After being told that his gas system would continue to leak due to the piping, he started researching electric vs. gas heating. He discovered German-manufactured radTherm, built with a ceramic core, which would heat his home efficiently.

After contacting North East Heating Solutions to book his free home survey, Howard was able to recommend the types of radiators he would need for a warm and comfortable home. Mr. Everitt was pleased with the installation process, finding the engineers clean, tidy, and efficient, fitting the whole system in a day.

Making the Switch from Gas to Electric

In the debate between electric and gas heating, electric emerges as the clear winner for its efficiency, cost-effectiveness over time, and environmental benefits.

If you’re interested in making the switch from gas to electric heating, North East Heating Solutions can help. Book your free home survey today and discover how switching to electric heating can improve the warmth and efficiency of your home.

For more information or to book a survey, contact North East Heating Solutions online, call 0800 808 5513, or email [email protected].

If you’re also considering a more efficient hot water system, check out our Sunamp hot water storage solution.