LPG Heating: Everything You Need to Know

What Is LPG?

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is a mixture of propane and butane — byproducts of natural gas processing and petroleum refining. Unlike mains natural gas, LPG is stored under pressure as a liquid and vaporises at atmospheric pressure. In a domestic heating context, propane (stored in a tank) is the standard fuel for LPG boilers.

How LPG Heating Works

LPG boilers operate almost identically to natural gas boilers. The main difference is the gas regulator and burner configuration, which are calibrated for propane. A modern condensing LPG boiler can achieve efficiencies above 90%. LPG can be used with combi, system, or heat-only boiler configurations.

Tank Options

LPG tanks come in two main types: above-ground and below-ground (underground). Above-ground tanks are less expensive to install and easier to inspect, but take up visual space in your garden. Underground tanks have a higher installation cost but are invisible and have a smaller surface footprint. Tanks can be owned outright or rented from an LPG supplier.

LPG vs Oil

Both are alternatives for off-grid homes. LPG burns more cleanly than oil, produces slightly lower CO2 emissions per kWh, and carries no risk of oil spills. However, LPG is generally more expensive per kWh than heating oil.

Running Costs

LPG currently costs approximately 10–13p per kWh delivered, making it the most expensive fossil fuel option. An average three-bedroom home using LPG for heating and hot water might spend £1,700–£2,200 per year.

Should You Switch to a Heat Pump?

Given the relatively high cost of LPG, air source heat pumps are a compelling alternative for many LPG-heated properties — especially with the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant. Running costs can be significantly lower, and LPG customers are often excellent heat pump candidates.

Halo Heating advises on LPG systems and heat pump alternatives across Surrey. Call 01483 676108 to discuss your options.