Science has proved heat pumps are more efficient than gas boilers.
New research from Bellway and the University of Salford, has found that air source heat pumps can operate more than four times as efficiently as traditional gas boilers in new-build homes, highlighting their potential to reduce emissions and support net-zero transition.
The study was carried out inside the University of Salford’s Energy House 2.0 climate chamber, where Bellway constructed a full-size three-bedroom home built to proposed Future Homes Standard specifications.
Researchers tested how low-carbon heating systems performed under a range of weather conditions.
Results showed that at a typical winter temperature of 5C, an air source heat pump paired with underfloor heating downstairs and radiators upstairs produced 4.71 units of heat for every unit of energy consumed.
By comparison, a typical gas boiler is around 90% efficient, producing up to 0.9 units of heat from one unit of energy.
The findings also revealed that daily heating costs could be as low as £1.19 when operated efficiently. Even in colder conditions of -5C, the system delivered 2.98 units of heat for every unit of energy used.
Researchers found the most sustainable and efficient approach was to run heat pumps continuously at a low temperature, increasing output during mornings, evenings or periods of extreme cold.
This differs from the on-demand heating behaviour commonly associated with gas boilers.
Jamie Bursnell, Head of Technical and Innovation for Bellway, said: “The research shows that new build homes can provide low-carbon, low-running-cost heating without the need to pay for expensive retrofitting of secondhand homes, which can run into tens of thousands of pounds. This means new homes built to Future Home Standards will have a vital role to play in reducing the UK’s carbon footprint as the grid moves to net zero.”
Professor Will Swan, Director of Energy House Labs at the University of Salford, added: “This collaboration shows us the importance of ‘doing it right’ and the value this can bring to the occupant in terms of efficiency.”
With the Future Homes Standard due to take effect in 2027, the research offers valuable insight into how low-carbon heating can help reduce household emissions while lowering energy consumption in the years ahead.
Copyright © 2026 Energy Live News LtdELN