EPC heating fuel types explained: gas, oil, electric and heat pumps

The default and cheapest heating fuel in the UK. Most urban and suburban properties built after 1950 have mains gas. If the EPC says “mains gas,” you're in the standard situation — the rating comparison between properties is straightforward. The main future consideration is the government's plan to phase out gas boilers in new installations from 2035.

Common in rural areas without mains gas. Oil is delivered by tanker and stored in a tank on the property — typically 1,000–2,500 litres. Oil prices fluctuate significantly (they track crude oil) and buying at the wrong time can be costly. There are additional ongoing costs: tank maintenance, annual boiler service, and eventual tank replacement (£1,500–£3,000).

Switching away from oil means either connecting to mains gas (expensive and not always possible) or installing a heat pump. Both are major projects. See our full guide to oil-heated properties.

Common in flats and 1960s–1970s properties with no gas connection. Storage heaters charge overnight on off-peak electricity and release heat through the day — but the control over when and how much heat is released is limited. Even on an Economy 7 tariff, electricity costs significantly more than gas per unit of heat delivered. See our full guide to storage heaters.

Direct electric heating (panel heaters, electric radiators) is the most expensive heating method available. Electricity costs roughly 4x more than gas per kWh. Properties heated this way will have poor EPC ratings and high bills. A common finding in older leasehold conversions and some HMOs. Budget for a significant heating upgrade if you encounter this on an EPC.

LPG behaves similarly to oil — delivered by tanker, stored in a tank, price-volatile. More expensive per unit than mains gas. Found in rural properties without oil or gas connections. Similar considerations to oil in terms of tank maintenance and switching costs.

Heat pumps run on electricity but are 2–4x more efficient than direct electric heating — they move heat rather than generate it. A property with a heat pump will typically be rated A or B. Running costs at current electricity prices are broadly comparable to gas. Combined with solar panels, they become the most cost-effective heating option available.

Common in large flat developments. Heat is generated centrally and piped to individual properties. You have no choice of supplier and can't switch — so the tariff matters enormously. Some district heating schemes are excellent value; others are significantly more expensive than mains gas. Always request the current heat network tariff and compare it to mains gas equivalent before buying.