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Heat pump vs gas boiler

Upfront cost, running cost, carbon and comfort, side by side.

Short answer

A new gas boiler is far cheaper to buy, roughly €3,000 to €4,500, but gets no grant and is the system most exposed to future carbon taxes. A heat pump costs more upfront even after grants, but usually costs less to run and pays back the difference over time in a well insulated home.

Costs and figures

System	Efficiency	Price per kWh	Yearly cost
Oil boiler	85%	€0.11	€1,941
Gas boiler	90%	€0.13	€2,167
Electric storage heaters	100%	€0.33	€4,950
Heat pump	SCOP 3.5	€0.33	€1,414

Source: SEAI: Heat pump system grants. Last updated October 2026.

Side by side

Upfront: gas boiler €3,000 to €4,500; heat pump €500 to €8,500 for most houses after grants
Grants: none for a gas boiler; up to €14,500 for a heat pump
Running cost: a heat pump is usually cheaper, especially on a smart tariff
Carbon: a heat pump produces a fraction of the emissions
Lifespan: both around 15 to 20 years with servicing

When gas still makes sense

If your home has very high heat loss and you can't insulate it yet, a heat pump may struggle. In that case, insulate first and plan the switch for when the boiler next needs replacing.

Is this right for you?

Your boiler is over 12 to 15 years old or needs costly repairs

Your home is insulated or you plan to insulate

You want to avoid rising carbon taxes on gas

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The SEAI heat pump grant, explained

Four grants that stack, who qualifies, and the order you must do things in so you don't lose them.

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