The Future of Heating: What Installers Need to Know in 2025
The UK heating industry is changing fast — and installers are at the centre of it.
With government targets, shifting public opinion, and new technology becoming the norm, 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year.
At the Green Energy & Gas Alliance (GEGA), we speak with engineers every day who are trying to stay ahead of the curve. This guide lays out the key trends, practical shifts, and honest advice for those on the tools.
Gas Isn’t Gone — Yet
Despite all the noise about net zero, gas boilers are still being installed in huge numbers. Over a million per year, as of 2025. But the writing is on the wall — and every installer knows it.
- New build homes are phasing out gas entirely.
- Heat pumps and hybrids are no longer fringe options.
- Consumer interest in “low-carbon” solutions is only growing.
So while gas remains relevant today, the future is clearly moving towards electric-based heating. This doesn’t mean your gas skills are redundant — but it does mean adaptation is key.
Heat Pumps Are Going Mainstream
Whether you’re a fan or a sceptic, heat pumps are here to stay.
- More manufacturers are entering the market
- Training is more accessible than ever
- Government funding schemes — while not always straightforward — are making installation more affordable for homeowners
But heat pumps aren’t plug-and-play replacements. The installation is consultative and technical. You still need to assess each property properly:
- Is insulation up to scratch?
- Are radiators oversized enough?
- Can the customer accept a change in hot water expectations?
A good installer knows when to recommend a heat pump — and when it’s not the right fit. The best advice is honest advice.
Hybrid Systems: A Real-World Stepping Stone
For many UK homes, a full heat pump install isn’t viable — yet.
That’s where hybrid systems come in: gas boiler + heat pump, working together.
These setups offer:
- Lower carbon emissions without full replacement
- Familiarity for both installers and customers
- Gradual transition without disruption
Expect hybrids to become a dominant option over the next few years — especially for retrofit projects in older or poorly insulated homes. They’re a practical, customer-friendly entry point into low-carbon heating.
Common Pitfalls When Switching to Low-Carbon Tech
Even experienced installers can run into trouble when stepping into the low-carbon space. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Using gas boiler logic to size a heat pump
- Skipping proper heat loss calculations
- Failing to explain flow temperatures and hot water differences to clients
- Not planning for buffer tanks, weather compensation, or cylinder sizing
This isn’t about perfection — it’s about preparation.
With the right approach, these pitfalls are easy to avoid.
At GEGA, we’re not here to shame or scold. We’re here to share what works — and what doesn’t — from engineers in the field.
Training and Support That Actually Works
Let’s be honest: not every installer has time to take a week off for classroom training.
That’s why modern upskilling needs to be:
- Bite-sized
- Accessible
- Relevant
- Respectful of your time on the tools
We support and promote:
- Evening CPD sessions via webinar
- Self-paced online learning with installer-specific modules
- On-site mentoring and peer-to-peer advice networks
“I picked up most of what I know about hybrids through a 2-hour CPD webinar. That gave me the confidence to quote properly — and I’ve not looked back since.”
— Installer, Sheffield
This is what works in the real world. Not just ticking a box — but building real skills that win jobs and avoid call-backs.
GEGA’s Role
We’re here to bridge the gap between policy and practice.
GEGA is run by engineers — not salespeople. That means:
- No product bias
- No inflated promises
- Just honest, hands-on advice to help you future-proof your work
We believe the installer voice needs to be heard — and we’re proud to be part of that conversation.
Final Word
2025 is a turning point.
Gas isn’t going away overnight, but the shift toward low-carbon heating is already in motion.
Installers who stay informed, ask questions, and keep building their skills will stay ahead.
At GEGA, we’re here to support that journey — with facts, not fluff.Got questions or want to get involved? Contact GEGA
