What energy source bets for new boiler?

We had a similar dilema seven years ago and when we moved to a large detached bungalow out in the sticks. We installed a hotwater heating sytem with an air source heat pump. We considered oil or LPG but decided we didn't want a big tank in the garden nor the hassle of getting it filled or the possibilyy of having the oil stolen.

It was more expensive than an oil or lpg boiler and tank but it is ver economical to run and we do get a government subsidy called the renewable Heat Incentive which in our case is £173 a quarter for 7 years which is around £4900.

We are all electric, cooking as well (induction hob and electric oven), we use a washing machine and dishwasher and my wife doesn't stint on the use of the tumble dryer (even in the summer) We are at home all day so have computers on all day. All lighting is LED and the unit provides all the hot water as we need

This year our total electricity consumption will be around 6500kwh at about 13p/kwh (incl standing charge) = £860 and I've just signed up for a similar deal for next year. Because the unit runs nearly all day we wont get any benefit from an E& off-peak tariff.

If you do investigate heatpumps be aware that it needs to be done properly by an accredited installer if you want to claim the RHI.

The system needs to be properly designed to ensure that you get the benefits, as heatpumps work differently to conventional boilers and have a lot slower response. Radiators or heat emitters have to be larger and suited to the purpose as the lower flow temperatures improve the efficiency. Insulation should be as good as you can get it.