We break down kWh, tariffs and efficiency so you can compare like-for-like — not marketing claims.
It's the question every Irish homeowner asks before switching: will a heat pump actually cost less to run than my gas boiler? The honest answer is 'it depends' — but once you understand the maths, you can work it out for your own home.
It all comes down to efficiency
A modern condensing gas boiler runs at roughly 90% efficiency. A heat pump typically delivers a Seasonal Performance Factor of 3 to 4: three to four units of heat for every unit of electricity, because it moves heat rather than burning fuel.
But electricity costs more than gas
In Ireland electricity is priced well above gas per kWh — so the heat pump's efficiency advantage is partly offset by the higher unit cost. A well-designed, well-serviced heat pump in a reasonably insulated home usually comes out cheaper to run; a poorly commissioned one in a draughty house may not.
The factors that decide it for your home
- Insulation and airtightness — the biggest single factor
- System design and flow temperatures — lower is more efficient
- Your electricity tariff, especially night-rate or smart tariffs
- How well the system is serviced and maintained over time
The takeaway
Heat pumps reward good design and regular servicing. A HeatHub assessment will tell you honestly where your home stands and what would move the numbers most.
