A survey of 1,000 heat pump owners has sparked fresh discussion about whether heat pumps really cost less to run than gas boilers. Surprisingly, despite claims about the savings they can offer, the results commissioned by the Green Britain Foundation show that many households are actually paying more than expected. This naturally raises questions for both businesses and homeowners who are thinking about making the switch.

What did the survey find?

The survey carried out by the Green Britain Foundation found that around two-thirds of respondents, roughly 60 per cent or more, said their heat pumps cost more to run than their old gas boiler systems. Around 15 per cent said their bills had gone down, while the rest reported little change or said they were not sure.

In reality, this seems to contradict surveys previously carried out by the government, which showed high levels of satisfaction among heat pump users. Officials have often pointed to research suggesting that most homeowners see lower energy bills after installation.

Understanding Electricity Prices and Heat Pump Efficiency

When you look at the data alongside people’s real life experiences, it does paint a mixed picture. However, much of this comes down to how energy is priced in the UK. Heat pumps are actually very efficient and, on average, they can produce three to four times more energy than they use. The challenge is pricing, as electricity costs more per unit than gas. For many users, that difference can cancel out the potential benefits of running a heat pump.

We would highly advise businesses to compare gas prices per kWh with commercial electricity rates before investing or to get in touch with us. At the moment, the gap between gas and electricity prices means that even very efficient heat pumps can struggle to deliver the savings people expect. Especially, in older buildings with poor insulation.

This suggests that the type of property may be the biggest factor when it comes to heat pumps. Modern, well-insulated buildings are more likely to see real savings. Older properties, on the other hand, can struggle to retain heat, which means they may not see these benefits.

Start with the basics

While the debate around heat pumps continues, many businesses are currently paying too much for their commercial gas and electricity. Before investing in new technology, it is worth checking whether you are on the cheapest business gas and the best business electricity rates available. More often than not, significant savings can be made simply by reviewing your current contracts. For example, take a look at our case studies.

Moving forward with heat pumps?

The government’s recent budget plans to cut electricity costs show a growing recognition that the price gap between gas and electricity needs to be addressed. As the grid becomes greener, electricity prices may begin to fall and move closer to gas prices, which would allow heat pumps to make more financial sense over time.

However, for now it is important to understand that heat pumps can save money only in the right conditions. Installing one without proper planning can easily lead to disappointment. Much depends on the state of your building: a well-insulated, draught-proofed property allows a heat pump to run efficiently at lower flow temperatures. Whereas a poorly insulated one forces the system to work harder and pushes running costs up. Your existing heating setup, radiator sizes, and how you use heat throughout the day all play a part too. It is also worth weighing up the upfront installation cost against available grants and your likely long-term savings, rather than assuming the switch will pay off automatically.

Can Purely Energy Help?

As a trusted UK energy broker, we're here to help you make the right choice. If you need help with your business gas or electricity, get in touch with us.

Managing energy costs is one of the biggest challenges facing UK businesses today, and the market rarely stands still. Wholesale prices shift constantly, contract terms vary widely between suppliers, and the wrong deal can lock you into rates that quietly erode your margins for years. That is where we come in. We compare a wide panel of trusted suppliers on your behalf, cutting through the jargon so you can see clearly what you are paying for and why. Whether you are a small independent business or managing multiple sites, we tailor our advice to your usage, your budget, and your plans for the future.

Our team handles the legwork, from gathering quotes to arranging your switch, so you can stay focused on running your business rather than chasing tariffs. We keep the process straightforward, transparent, and built around getting you a deal that genuinely works.

To find the best rates please click here. For more information, contact us on 0161 521 3400 or email us at info@purelyenergy.co.uk.

Written By Faith Labong at Purely Energy