Why Consider Replacing Your Oil Boiler with an Electric Boiler?

For many off-grid homes in the UK, oil boilers have been the traditional go-to for heating and hot water. But with rising oil prices, stricter emissions targets, and the shift towards cleaner energy, more homeowners are asking: “Should I replace my oil boiler with an electric one?”

At Lucas Plumbing & Heating Ltd, we’ve seen a growing number of customers across Berkshire choosing to upgrade their oil boilers to electric — and for good reason. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is an Electric Boiler?

An electric boiler works by heating water using electricity instead of burning oil or gas. It performs the same basic function — supplying hot water to your taps and radiators — but does so in a much cleaner and more efficient way, particularly in smaller or well-insulated properties.

There are three main types:

• Electric combi boilers – Provide hot water on demand (ideal for small homes/flats)
• System electric boilers – Work with a separate hot water cylinder
• Regular electric boilers – Replace traditional boiler + cylinder + tank setups

Benefits of Replacing an Oil Boiler with Electric

1. No More Oil Deliveries or Storage

Say goodbye to fuel tanks, oil leaks, and delivery schedules. Electric boilers run entirely from your mains electricity supply.

2. Zero On-Site Emissions

Electric boilers produce no carbon monoxide, no soot, and no flue gases — making them ideal for environmentally conscious households.

3. Silent Operation

Unlike oil boilers that often hum, roar, or vibrate, electric boilers are near-silent, making them ideal for airing cupboards, flats, or bedrooms.

4. Compact & Space-Saving

Electric units are usually smaller and wall-mounted, freeing up space in utility rooms or airing cupboards.

5. Lower Installation & Maintenance Costs

No need for flues, oil lines, or ventilation. Fewer moving parts mean less servicing and fewer breakdowns.

6. Perfect for Well-Insulated Homes

In properties with modern insulation and double glazing, electric boilers can be very cost-efficient and highly effective.

What About Running Costs?

This is the big question. Electricity costs more per unit than oil, but electric boilers are nearly 100% efficient at the point of use — whereas oil boilers typically run at 80–90%.

Here’s what affects your running costs:

• Property insulation
• Smart controls (e.g. timers, thermostats, zoning)
• Tariff type (Economy 7 or off-peak rates help reduce costs)
• Size of property and hot water usage

 Tip: Pairing an electric boiler with solar PV or battery storage can significantly reduce your heating costs.

Sustainability & Future-Proofing

The UK is moving towards low-carbon heating solutions. Government plans include:

• Phasing out fossil fuel heating in new builds
• Incentives for heat pumps and electric heating
• Clean electricity from renewable sources (wind, solar, hydro)

Switching now positions your home ahead of future regulations and contributes to a cleaner environment.

Is an Electric Boiler Right for Every Home?

Yes, if:

• You're in an off-grid or rural property
• You want a cleaner, quieter, maintenance-free option
• Your home is well-insulated and not too large
• You use solar power or benefit from off-peak electricity rates

Not ideal if:

• You live in a large property with very high hot water demand
• Your electricity supply can’t support a high kW load
• You rely on a combi-style system for multiple showers at once

In such cases, alternatives like air source heat pumps or high-efficiency oil boilers may be better.

Why Choose Lucas Plumbing & Heating Ltd for Your Upgrade?

• Experienced in oil-to-electric boiler conversions
• Fully qualified heating engineers and NICEIC-approved partners
• Clear advice on electric boiler brands and suitability
• Local support across Wokingham, Reading, Ascot, and surrounding Berkshire areas
• Honest, no-pressure advice with free estimates

Summary – Is It Time to Ditch Oil?

Upgrading from oil to electric could mean:

• A cleaner home
• Lower maintenance
• No fuel tank worries
• Future-proof heating that works with green energy systems

It’s not the right fit for everyone — but for many homes, it's a smart and sustainable step forward.

Get a Free Oil-to-Electric Boiler Quote

Interested in finding out if your property is suitable? Contact Lucas Plumbing & Heating Ltd for expert, no-obligation advice and a full installation quote.

Call us on 01184371679
Or request a callback at www.lucasplumbing.co.uk