How to Convert Gas to Electric Heating in an Older Home

With energy prices rising and a growing focus on sustainable living, more and more homeowners are exploring ways to make their homes more energy-efficient. For those living in older properties with outdated gas or oil heating systems, converting gas to electric heating offers a practical, future-proof solution.

The good news? Retrofitting an older home with modern electric heating is entirely possible – and can deliver long-term savings, improved efficiency, and lower carbon emissions.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to successfully transition your older home to electric heating. We’ll cover:

The key benefits of electric heating
Important considerations when upgrading an older property
A step-by-step guide to making the switch

Whether you’re looking to future-proof your home, cut heating costs, or reduce your carbon footprint, this guide will help you understand exactly how to make the transition to electric heating—without the hassle.

Why Switch to Electric Heating in an Older Home?

Upgrading to electric water heating in an older property isn’t just about modern convenience—it’s a smart move toward a greener, safer, and more efficient home.

Today’s electric heating systems are cleaner, easier to maintain, and far more efficient than the outdated gas or oil systems found in many older homes.

Here’s why making the switch is worth considering…

Key Benefits of Electric Heating in Older Homes:

Lower Carbon Footprint: Electric heating produces zero on-site emissions, helping reduce your home’s environmental impact and supporting your move toward net-zero living.
Greater Energy Efficiency: Modern electric heating systems, including smart radiators, dynamic storage heaters, and heat batteries, use energy more efficiently—minimising heat loss and cutting your heating costs.
Enhanced Safety: Electric heating eliminates combustion-related risks, such as carbon monoxide leaks, gas leaks, or potential explosions, making it a safer choice for your home and family.
Renewable Energy Ready: Electric heating works seamlessly with solar panels, Economy 7 tariffs, and off-grid energy solutions, making it ideal for homeowners investing in sustainable energy sources.
Low Maintenance: With no moving parts, pipework, or fuel storage requirements, electric heating systems require minimal upkeep and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional boilers.

For older homes with ageing, inefficient heating systems, switching to electric heating is a future-proof, cost-effective upgrade that delivers comfort, safety, and sustainability.

Key Steps to Switching to Electric Heating in an Older Home

Transitioning to electric heating in an older home may feel daunting, but with the right approach, it’s a straightforward and rewarding upgrade. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the switch effectively:

1. Assess Your Current Heating System & Insulation

Start by reviewing your existing heating setup. Determine whether you currently use gas, oil, or electric resistance heating. If you’re converting gas to electric, understanding your current system is essential to ensure compatibility and identify any necessary upgrades. Also, evaluate the insulation levels in your home—older properties often lack adequate insulation, which can impact the efficiency of electric heating systems.

Pro Tip: Improving your home’s insulation is essential to maximise the benefits of electric heating.

2. Choose the Right Electric Heating System

There are several electric heating solutions suitable for older homes, depending on your property’s layout and heating needs. If you’re trying to decide on the best heating system for an old house in the UK, or you’re converting gas to electric heating, the right option will depend on factors like insulation, budget, and whether your home is off-grid. Popular choices include:

Electric Heat Pumps (Air or Ground Source): Highly efficient, providing both heating and cooling.
Infrared Heating Panels: Offer direct, instant heat with a discreet, modern design—ideal for period properties.
Storage Heaters (Economy 7 Compatible): Store cheaper, off-peak electricity overnight for use during the day.
Smart Electric Radiators: Allow for programmable, zone-controlled heating, improving comfort and energy efficiency.

3. Upgrade Your Hot Water System

Older homes often rely on traditional water tanks, which can be inefficient and space-consuming. Switching to a space-saving electric water heater, such as the Aquafficient by Fischer, is a smart move.

Why Choose the Aquafficient?

Compact Design: Half the height of conventional water cylinders—ideal for older homes with limited space.
Instant Hot Water: Utilises patented thermal storage technology (phase-change material) for on-demand hot water.
Energy-Efficient: Up to 4x lower heat loss than standard hot water tanks.
Long-Lasting: Offers a 50-year lifespan (40,000 cycles) and comes with a 10-year warranty.
Renewable-Ready: Compatible with solar PV systems and Economy 7 tariffs.

4. Improve Insulation & Draught-Proofing

To get the best performance from your new electric heating system, ensure your home is well-insulated. Key improvements include:

Loft and wall insulation 
Double or triple-glazed windows 
Draught-proofing around doors, windows, and floors

These upgrades help to retain heat and reduce energy waste, particularly important in older homes with poor insulation.

5. Check Your Electrical Supply

Some older properties may require an electrical upgrade to support a modern electric heating system. This could include:

Upgrading your consumer unit (fuse box)
Ensuring your wiring is safe and up to current standards

Always consult a qualified electrician before installation.

6. Explore Grants & Incentives

In the UK, you may be eligible for financial support to help offset installation costs:

Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS): Grants available for heat pump installations.
ECO4 Grants: Assistance for low-income households to improve energy efficiency.
Energy Provider Discounts: Some suppliers offer incentives for switching to electric heating.

Be sure to research current schemes and offers available in your area.

Is Electric Heating Cheaper Than Gas?

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is whether electric heating is cheaper than gas. While it’s true that electricity costs more per kWh than gas, modern electric heating systems are designed to be far more energy-efficient, helping to balance out running costs.

Here’s why electric heating can save you money over time, and how it compares in the electric vs gas heating debate:

Higher Efficiency: Systems like electric heat pumps can be up to 3 times more efficient than traditional gas boilers, meaning they use less energy to produce the same amount of heat.
Lower Maintenance Costs: Unlike gas boilers, electric radiators and heaters require no annual gas safety checks, flue maintenance, or boiler servicing, reducing ongoing expenses.
Smarter Controls: Smart thermostats and zone heating allow you to heat only the rooms you’re using, cutting down on wasted energy.
Hot Water Efficiency: Switching to an efficient electric water heater reduces standby heat loss and lowers the cost of electric heating systems overall.

While the upfront cost of electric central heating may be higher, the combination of efficiency, low maintenance, and better control makes it a cost-effective choice in the long run—even when compared to gas heating costs. This is particularly true in older, well-insulated homes where heat loss is minimised.

Final Thoughts: Is Switching to Electric Heating Worth It?

If you’re planning to renovate or upgrade an older home, or you’re converting gas to electric, switching to electric heating is a smart, future-proof investment. Not only will it help you reduce your carbon footprint and simplify maintenance, but it will also improve your home’s overall comfort and energy efficiency.

Ready to make the switch? Request a free catalogue or contact Fischer today for expert heating advice and to explore the best electric heating solutions for your home! Start saving energy, space, and money with Fischer.

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Tom Nurse