How Much Does Central Heating Cost Per Hour?
Written by: Energy Efficient You
Published: 15.04.2025
Introduction
As energy prices continue to fluctuate and the colder months roll in, many UK homeowners are starting to ask a very practical question: how much does it actually cost to run central heating per hour?
Whether you’re trying to budget better or simply curious about what’s driving up your energy bills, understanding the cost of heating your home is an important step toward making smarter, more energy-efficient choices.
In this article, we’ll break down the average hourly cost of central heating, explain what factors influence that price, and share some easy ways to reduce how much you’re spending—without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re heating a one-bed flat or a four-bed house, this guide will help you get a clearer picture of your heating costs and how to manage them more effectively.
Average Cost of Central Heating Per Hour in the UK
On average, running central heating in the UK costs between 80p and £1.20 per hour, depending on your boiler’s size, fuel type, and energy tariff. Most homes use gas boilers, which are generally cheaper to run than electric systems.
To estimate the cost, you can use a simple formula:
Boiler output (kW) × energy cost per kWh = cost per hour
For example, if you have a 24kW gas boiler and your unit rate is £0.07 per kWh:
24 × £0.07 = £1.68 per hour
However, this is the maximum output—your boiler won’t run at full power continuously. A more realistic average might be 50% output, meaning the actual cost could be closer to 85p per hour.
What Affects the Hourly Cost?
The cost of running your central heating per hour can vary quite a bit depending on several key factors. Here’s what makes the biggest difference:
Type and Efficiency of Boiler: Modern condensing boilers are much more efficient than older models. If your boiler is over 10–15 years old, it may be using more energy to heat your home, driving up hourly costs. Combi boilers tend to be more energy-efficient as they heat water on demand, while system or conventional boilers store hot water in tanks, which can waste energy.
Your Energy Tariff: The rate you pay per kWh is one of the biggest influences on cost. Fixed-rate tariffs often offer lower, more predictable prices, while variable tariffs can change with market rates. Switching providers or tariffs could lower your cost per hour.
Size and Insulation of Your Home: A large or poorly insulated home needs more energy to stay warm. Homes with good loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and double glazing retain heat better, meaning your boiler doesn’t need to work as hard. Looking for free insulation?
Usage Habits and Thermostat Settings: Running your heating constantly or setting your thermostat too high will naturally increase your hourly spend. Even lowering your thermostat by just 1°C can reduce your heating bills by up to 10%.
How to Calculate Your Own Central Heating Cost
Working out how much your central heating costs per hour is easier than you might think. All you need is your boiler’s output and your current energy tariff.
Step-by-step guide:
- Find your boiler’s output (in kW): This is usually listed on the boiler itself or in the manual. A typical UK boiler ranges from 18–30kW.
- Check your energy unit rate (per kWh):
You’ll find this on your gas or electricity bill. For gas, it’s often around £0.07 per kWh; for electric, it can be £0.25 or more. - Use the formula:
Boiler output (kW) × unit rate (p/kWh) = cost per hour.
Example:
If you have a 24kW gas boiler and your rate is £0.07 per kWh:
24 × £0.07 = £1.68 per hour (if running at full output)
In real life, your boiler likely cycles on and off, so you may only use 40–60% of this output on average—bringing the cost closer to 70–90p per hour.
Is It Cheaper to Leave Heating on Low All Day?
This is a common question—and the short answer is: no, it’s usually not cheaper.
Keeping your heating on low all day means your boiler is constantly working to maintain a temperature, even when you’re not home or don’t need the heat. This leads to more energy being used overall.
Instead, it’s more cost-effective to heat your home only when you need it, using a timer or smart thermostat to schedule heating around your routine. Homes that are well-insulated lose heat more slowly, so heating them up when needed is generally more efficient than keeping the boiler ticking over all day.
There are a few exceptions—like very poorly insulated homes—but in most cases, heating on demand saves more than heating constantly on low.
How to Reduce Your Heating Costs
Even if your central heating is essential during colder months, there are plenty of simple and effective ways to keep costs under control—without sacrificing comfort.
Lower the Thermostat Slightly:
Reducing your thermostat by just 1°C can cut your heating bill by up to 10%. Most people won’t even notice the difference in temperature.
Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat:
Set your heating to come on only when needed, such as an hour before you wake up and turn off when you leave the house. Smart thermostats can learn your habits and adjust automatically for maximum efficiency.
Service Your Boiler Annually:
A yearly service keeps your boiler running efficiently and can help prevent costly breakdowns.
Consider a Boiler Upgrade:
If your boiler is over 10–15 years old, it might be time for a more energy-efficient model. Modern A-rated condensing boilers can be up to 30% more efficient than older ones. Check your eligibility for a free boiler upgrade here.
Should You Switch Energy Providers to Save Money?
Absolutely—switching energy providers can be one of the easiest ways to cut your heating costs.
If you’re on a standard variable tariff, you’re likely paying more than you need to. Fixed-rate deals often offer better value, especially if prices are predicted to rise. Even small savings per kilowatt hour can add up significantly over the course of a cold winter.
Websites like Uswitch, Compare the Market, or MoneySuperMarket let you quickly compare tariffs and find the best deal for your usage and region. Some providers even offer extra perks like smart thermostats or green energy incentives.
Just make sure to check if there are exit fees on your current deal before switching. But in most cases, the savings outweigh the costs—and you could save hundreds per year with a better tariff.
Conclusion
Understanding how much central heating costs per hour can help you take back control of your energy bills. While the average hourly cost ranges between 80p and £1.20, your exact spend depends on your boiler, energy tariff, home insulation, and how you use your heating.
By learning how to calculate your own costs and making a few smart changes—like reducing your thermostat, using a timer, or switching energy providers—you can stay warm without overspending.
Small adjustments really do add up. With a bit of awareness and planning, you can keep your home cosy and your heating costs manageable all winter long.
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