With energy prices continuing to fluctuate, many UK homeowners are asking one critical question: Is electric heating cheaper than gas? The answer isn't a simple "yes" or "no". While gas has historically been the cheapest fuel per unit, the rise of energy-efficient electric heaters, smart tariffs, and the high cost of boiler maintenance has shifted the balance. In this guide, we break down the running costs of electric vs gas heating to help you decide which is best for your home and your wallet.
1. The Unit Price: Electricity Vs Gas Per kWh
As of early 2026, the Ofgem energy price gap shows a significant gap in unit rates. On average, you can expect to pay:
- Electricity: ~27.69p per kWh
- Gas: ~5.93p per kWh
At first glance, gas appears nearly five times cheaper. However, this doesn't tell the whole story. While the fuel is cheaper, the efficiency and delivery of that heat are where electric systems start to close the gap.
2. Efficiency: 100% vs 90%
One of the biggest advantages of modern electric radiators and convector heaters is that they are 100% efficient. This means every pound you spend on electricity is converted directly into heat.
In contrast, even a top-rated A-rated gas boiler usually operates at around 90-92% efficiency. The remaining 8-10% is lost as waste gases through the flue. When you factor in heat loss through pipes in a "wet" central heating system, the efficiency of gas can drop even further.
3. Zonal Heating: The "One Room" Rule
This is where portable electric heaters win the cost battle.
- Gas Central Heating: Usually heats the entire house, including empty spare rooms and hallways, unless you manually adjust every radiator valve.
- Electric Heating: Allows for zonal heating. If you are working from home in a single office, running a 2kW electric heater for a few hours is significantly cheaper than firing up the entire gas central heating system for the whole house.
4. Maintenance and Installation Costs
When calculating if electric heating is better than gas, you must look beyond the monthly bill:
- Gas Costs: Requires an annual boiler service (-£100+), gas safety certificates (for landlords), and has a shorter lifespan (10-15 years). Installation involves complex pipework and flues.
- Electric Costs: Virtually zero maintenance. No moving parts, no annual service, and a longer lifespan (often 20+ years). Installation is often as simple as "plug and play" or basic wiring.
Comparison Table: Electric vs Gas At A Glance (2026)
| Feature | Electric Heating | Gas Central Heating |
| Unit Cost (avg) | High (~27.7p/kWh) | Low (~5.9/kWh) |
| Efficiency | 100% (at point of use) | 90-92% (A-rated boiler) |
| Maintenance | Minimal/None | Annual Service Required |
| Installation | Low Cost/DIY | High Cost / Professional |
| Zonal Control | Excellent (room-by-room) | Moderate (Requires TRVs) |
5. The Verdict: Which Is Cheaper For You?
- Choose Gas If: You have a large family home that needs constant, whole-house heating and you are already connected to the gas grid.
- Choose Electric If: You live in a well-insulated flat, you want to heat specific rooms (zonal heating), or you want to avoid the high upfront costs and maintenance of a boiler.
How To Reduce Electric Heating Costs
If you opt for electric, you can slash your bills by using smart WiFi heaters with 24/7 timers and "Open Window Detection." These features ensure your heater only draws power when absolutely necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are electric heaters expensive to run? It depends on usage. A 2000W heater on full power costs roughly 55p per hour, but with a thermostat, it may only power for 15 minutes of that hour once the room is warm.
Can I replace my gas central heating with electric? Yes, many homeowners are switching to electric radiators to go "off-gas" and pair their heating with solar panels for even lower costs.
What is the most energy-efficient electric heater? Infrared heaters and oil-filled radiators are excellent for prolonged heat, while convector heaters are best for rapid warming.
