Understanding the Different Boiler Types: Gas, Oil, and LPG

Choosing the right boiler for your home or business is an important decision. With energy efficiency, fuel availability, and installation costs to consider, understanding the different types of boilers can help you make a smart, informed choice. In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between gas, oil, and LPG boilers—three of the most common fuel types used.

Gas Boilers

Gas boilers are the most common type found in homes connected to the mains gas grid. They burn natural gas to heat water, which is then circulated through your central heating system or used for hot water taps.

Pros:
Convenient and readily available: If your property is connected to the gas grid, you don’t need to store fuel.
Cost-effective: Natural gas is generally cheaper than oil or LPG per unit.
Low emissions: Modern gas boilers are highly efficient and produce fewer emissions than oil boilers.

Cons:
Not suitable for off-grid homes: Rural properties often don’t have access to mains gas.

Installation can be expensive if a connection to the gas network needs to be added.

Oil Boilers

Oil boilers are common in areas where mains gas isn’t available. They burn heating oil (usually kerosene) stored in a tank on the property.

Pros:
Good for off-grid locations: Ideal for rural homes not connected to the gas network.
High energy output: Modern oil boilers can be very efficient.
Flexible storage: You can choose your supplier and shop around for the best oil prices.

Cons:
Requires an on-site storage tank, which takes up space and needs maintenance.
Price volatility: Oil prices can fluctuate more than gas, making long-term costs unpredictable.

LPG Boilers

LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is a bottled or tank-stored gas, often used in areas without a mains gas connection. LPG boilers are similar in function to natural gas boilers but require LPG cylinders or a storage tank.

Pros:
Cleaner burning than oil: Lower CO2 emissions and soot levels.
More compact boilers: LPG systems are often smaller and quieter.
Good for off-grid homes: A suitable alternative to oil if you want gas-like performance.

Cons:
Fuel storage required: Like oil, you need space for an LPG tank or cylinders.
Fuel costs: Generally more expensive than natural gas and may be on par with or higher than oil.
Delivery dependency: You’ll need regular deliveries, and delays can be problematic in bad weather.

 
The best boiler for your home will depend on whether you’re connected to the mains gas grid, your budget, and your environmental priorities. If you’re off-grid, both oil and LPG boilers are viable options—but LPG may be slightly more eco-friendly. For those on-grid, a natural gas boiler is usually the most efficient and cost-effective solution.

Need help choosing the right boiler for your home? Get in touch with our expert heating engineers who can assess your needs and recommend the best system for you.