Gas vs Oil vs LPG — Which Fuel Is Right for Your Home?

Fuel Choice Matters

Your choice of heating fuel affects installation costs, running costs, environmental impact, and the maintenance requirements for your system. Here's a breakdown of the three main fossil fuel options for home heating in the UK.

Natural Gas

Best for: Properties connected to the mains gas network

Natural gas is the most common heating fuel in the UK, used by around 85% of homes. It's supplied directly through the mains network, so there's no need to manage deliveries or storage.

Pros: Lowest fuel cost per kWh; convenient (no deliveries needed); widest choice of boiler and installer; reliable supply

Cons: Only available where mains gas is connected; subject to wholesale gas price fluctuations; fossil fuel with CO2 emissions

Heating Oil (Kerosene)

Best for: Rural properties without mains gas

Heating oil (kerosene) is the most common alternative fuel for off-grid properties. It's stored in a tank on your property, typically 1,000–2,500 litres, and delivered by tanker.

Pros: High energy density; efficient modern oil boilers; relatively affordable; widely available; OFTEC registered installers available across the country

Cons: Requires storage tank; price fluctuates; deliveries must be managed; higher carbon emissions than gas; spills can cause environmental damage

LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas)

Best for: Off-grid properties, especially smaller homes or where aesthetics matter

LPG is similar to natural gas in terms of boiler technology, but is stored in a tank on your property (or delivered in cylinders for smaller systems). LPG boilers are often called "propane boilers".

Pros: Cleaner burning than oil; lower CO2 than oil; similar boiler technology to mains gas; no risk of oil spill; tank can be underground

Cons: More expensive per kWh than gas or oil; tank rental/ownership costs; delivery management; LPG engineers must hold specific qualifications

Cost Comparison (approximate)

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Prices vary significantly with market conditions. These are approximate 2025 figures.

Thinking About Switching?

If you're currently on oil or LPG and considering alternatives — including air source heat pumps — Halo Heating can advise. We're experienced with all three fuel types and MCS certified for heat pump installations. Call 01483 676108.