Is Electric Heating Out of Date

Electric heating has been a staple in British homes for decades, offering a straightforward way to keep properties warm without the need for complex pipework or fuel deliveries. In recent years, however, with rising energy costs and growing interest in sustainable heating methods, many homeowners and landlords are asking whether electric heating is now out of date. The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on the type of electric heating in question, how a property is used, and the wider direction of UK energy policy.

The Changing Landscape of Home Heating

Heating in the UK is undergoing a period of transition. For many years, gas has been the dominant choice because it has traditionally been cheaper than electricity on a unit-for-unit basis. However, with the government moving towards a net zero target, gas boilers are set to be phased out in new homes. This has created a shift in thinking about electricity, particularly as more of the grid is now powered by renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. While traditional electric heaters may have a reputation for being expensive, modern systems are becoming increasingly efficient and may play an important role in the future of heating.

Traditional Electric Heating

Older forms of electric heating, such as night storage heaters, are often seen as out of date. These rely on storing heat during cheaper night-time tariffs and releasing it during the day. While they were innovative in their time, many users found them difficult to control and prone to running out of heat by evening. Portable plug-in heaters are another example of dated electric heating, offering limited efficiency and high running costs. These older systems have contributed to the perception that electric heating is an outdated and expensive option compared to gas or oil.

Modern Electric Heating Options

The market for electric heating has changed significantly in recent years. Modern electric radiators are highly efficient, offering precise thermostatic controls and smart technology that allows heating to be scheduled and monitored through apps. Heat pumps, which use electricity to extract heat from the air or ground, provide a much more efficient solution than traditional resistive heating, often delivering three or four times the energy output for every unit of electricity consumed. Infrared heating panels are another development, providing direct radiant heat that warms people and surfaces rather than the air, creating a comfortable environment with reduced energy consumption. These innovations show that electric heating is far from outdated and may in fact be one of the most forward-looking options available.

Running Costs and Efficiency

One of the key concerns for households considering electric heating is cost. Electricity in the UK remains more expensive than gas per kilowatt hour, which can make older forms of electric heating costly to run. However, the efficiency of modern electric systems helps to offset this, and as the grid continues to decarbonise, electricity may become more cost-effective over time. The potential for combining electric heating with solar panels or battery storage also provides opportunities for homeowners to reduce bills and gain greater independence from the grid.

Environmental Considerations

Sustainability is at the heart of the debate about heating. Gas and oil are fossil fuels that release carbon dioxide when burned, whereas electric heating can be supplied entirely from renewable sources. As the UK increases its investment in wind and solar power, electric heating is becoming more environmentally friendly each year. For landlords and property developers, this is an important factor, as regulations are increasingly focused on reducing the carbon footprint of homes and achieving higher energy performance standards.

Suitability for Different Properties

The suitability of electric heating depends on the type of property and how it is used. For small flats or properties that are only used occasionally, electric heating can be a practical and efficient solution, particularly when combined with smart controls. For larger homes with high heating demands, systems such as air source heat pumps may be more appropriate. In rural areas without access to mains gas, electric heating is often the most straightforward alternative, especially as oil heating becomes less favourable in environmental terms.

Maintenance and Safety Advantages

Another factor that keeps electric heating relevant is its simplicity. Unlike gas boilers, electric systems do not require annual servicing, and there is no risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Installation is also generally easier, as there is no need for flues or pipework. This can reduce long-term maintenance costs and provide reassurance for homeowners, landlords, and tenants alike.

The Future of Electric Heating

Far from being out of date, electric heating is likely to play an increasingly central role in the UK’s energy future. With the government planning to phase out new gas boiler installations in coming years and more pressure on households to improve energy efficiency, electric heating will continue to evolve. Advances in smart technology, renewable integration, and battery storage will all make electric systems more attractive. The challenge lies in balancing affordability with efficiency, but the trend points firmly towards electricity as a key part of the UK’s heating strategy.

Final Thoughts

The idea that electric heating is outdated largely comes from older systems that were inefficient and costly to run. Modern electric heating technologies are a very different proposition, offering efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability. While electricity is currently more expensive than gas, the shift towards renewable energy and the phasing out of fossil fuels mean electric heating is not only relevant but also forward-looking. For many households, particularly those interested in long-term sustainability, electric heating represents a future-proof investment rather than a relic of the past.