As gas prices rise, environmental awareness grows, and regulations continue to evolve, the choice between a traditional gas boiler and a sustainable hybrid heat pump is becoming increasingly important. In this article, we’ll walk you through the key differences, costs, benefits, and considerations, so you can make a well-informed decision.
Boiler or (hybrid) heat pump: what’s the difference?
There are significant differences between a hybrid heat pump and a traditional boiler. Understanding these will help you make the right choice for your home. Below, we’ve highlighted the most important points:
- Boiler: Runs on natural gas, relatively affordable to purchase, and quick to install. Operates at high heating temperatures, which is effective for poorly insulated homes.
- Hybrid heat pump: Works alongside a boiler and uses mainly electricity to heat your home efficiently most of the year. On colder days, the boiler kicks in. This reduces gas consumption and CO₂ emissions significantly, without requiring a full switch to an all-electric system.
- Full heat pump: Operates entirely on electricity, offers higher efficiency, and is more eco-friendly. It typically lasts longer but does require different maintenance.
When is a boiler still the best choice?
A boiler is still the most practical solution for homes that are poorly or moderately insulated. Because a heat pump works with lower water temperatures, it may struggle to adequately heat such properties. Boilers, on the other hand, perform well at higher temperatures, making them better suited for less energy-efficient houses.
Other exceptions include:
Using a boiler as a temporary solution
When budget is limited
In areas where the local power grid cannot yet handle the demand of a heat pump
When is a full heat pump the smarter option?
A full—or “all-electric”—heat pump is especially suitable if your home is well-insulated with an energy label A or B. It’s the right choice if you want to eliminate natural gas completely, make your home more sustainable, and save on energy costs over the long term.
Note: HR Installatietechniek installs only boilers and hybrid heat pumps. For full heat pumps, we recommend contacting a specialized all-electric installer.
Cost comparison: boiler vs. heat pump
To make things clear for you, we’ve compiled a cost overview. Below, you’ll see the costs per installation:
| Feature | Boiler | Hybrid Heat Pump | Full Heat Pump |
| Purchase + installation | €1,800 – €3,500 | €4,000 – €7,000 | €8,000 – €25,000 |
| Annual energy costs | High (€1,800 – €2,200) | Medium (€1,200 – €1,600) | Low (€900 – €1,300) |
| Lifespan | 12 – 15 years | 15 – 20 years | 20 – 25 years |
Environmental impact and energy use
Boilers emit on average 1,500 – 2,000 kg of CO₂ per year. A hybrid heat pump can cut that in half. A full electric heat pump emits almost no CO₂ at all.
Efficiency comparison:
Boiler: ~90% efficiency
Heat pump: 300% to 500% efficiency (COP rating)
Subsidies and financial incentives
Because sustainability is becoming increasingly important, there are attractive financial incentives available for installing (hybrid) heat pumps:
- ISDE subsidy: The national Investment Subsidy for Sustainable Energy and Energy Savings (ISDE) provides an average grant between €1,950 and €3,000, depending on brand, model, and capacity.
- Municipal incentives: Many municipalities offer additional programs, such as subsidies for energy audits or zero-interest loans for energy-efficient upgrades, including hybrid heat pumps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
A boiler remains cost-effective in the short term, but less sustainable in the long run. A hybrid heat pump offers the best balance between cost, comfort, and environmental benefits, helping you reduce gas consumption significantly while preparing for future regulations.
A full heat pump takes you completely off gas and is ideal for well-insulated homes. With subsidies and financing options, switching has never been more accessible.
Which heating solution is best for your home?
At HR Installatietechniek, we install both boilers and hybrid heat pumps. We’ll gladly advise you on the best choice for your situation—sustainable, comfortable, and future-ready.
Get in touch with us today or request a free, no-obligation quote.