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Aerothermal heating vs. gas boiler: is it worth making the switch now?
Aerothermal technology is emerging as the most efficient and sustainable alternative to gas boilers. With the European regulation banning new gas boiler installations as of July 2026, switching now means saving money, complying with the law, and accessing financial aid. So, this is the perfect time to embrace the future of home heating and cooling.
The way we heat and cool our homes is changing. The European Union has laid out a clear roadmap for the energy transition —and one of the main players is aerothermal energy. Compared to traditional gas boilers, this technology has become a more sustainable option fully aligned with the regulation that will take effect in July 2026.
If you’re considering upgrading your heating system, we’ll help you understand the key differences between the two options, the benefits of aerothermal technology, and why now is the right time to make the change.
What is aerothermal energy?
Aerothermal energy is a technology that uses the heat contained in outdoor air to heat or cool indoor spaces. It works through a heat pump that extracts heat from the air —even in winter— and transfers it to your home’s heating or domestic hot water system.
It’s an electric, renewable, and highly efficient solution capable of generating up to three times more thermal energy than the electricity it consumes. Moreover, aerothermal systems can operate in heating, cooling, and domestic hot water (DHW) modes, making them a comprehensive solution for the entire home.
What is a gas boiler?
Gas boilers are combustion-based systems that use natural gas to heat water, which is then circulated through radiators or underfloor heating. They are very common in Spain, especially in homes built before 2010. Furthermore, these boilers have long been the preferred option due to their low upfront cost and simple installation.
However, due to their dependence on fossil fuels, they inherently produce CO2 emissions and are subject to fluctuations in the energy market. Their energy efficiency is also significantly lower compared to modern renewable systems such as aerothermal heating.
What does the European regulation say?
The new European Union Energy Efficiency Directive (EU 2023/1791) —part of the ‘Fit for 55’ legislative package— sets ambitious goals to reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions.
Key measures include:
- Starting July 2026, installing new gas boilers in residential buildings will be prohibited.
- From 2024, subsidies for systems based on fossil fuels (such as gas or diesel) are eliminated.
- By 2030, all new residential buildings must be climate-neutral.
- The EU promotes electrification of heating through technologies like aerothermal systems, which produce no direct emissions.
These measures demonstrate the EU’s firm commitment to decarbonisation and energy efficiency, marking a turning point in residential heating.
Advantages of aerothermal systems over gas boilers
| Feature | Aerothermal energy | Gas boiler |
|---|---|---|
| Energy source | Renewable (outdoor air) | Fossil fuel (natural gas) |
| CO₂ emissions | None | Moderate |
| Energy efficiency | Very high | Medium |
| Installation cost | Higher | Lower |
| Maintenance cost | Low | Average |
| Available grants | Yes (Next Generation EU, IDAE) | No (since 2024) |
| Regulatory compliance | Fully compliant | Restricted from 2026 |
Is it worth making the switch now?
Yes —and for several reasons:
- Long-term savings: Although aerothermal systems have a higher upfront cost, their efficiency significantly reduces electricity use. This means that you will recover your investment in just a few years.
- Active grants: There are currently public grants available for installing renewable systems, managed by the IDAE and financed through Next Generation EU funds. These can cover up to 60% of installation costs.
- Regulatory compliance: If you’re renovating or building a new home, installing a gas boiler now could leave you non-compliant within a year. Aerothermal systems are a future-proof solution.
- Added property value: Homes equipped with sustainable systems have a higher energy rating, which increases property value and improves comfort.
What if I already have a gas boiler?
You’re not required to replace it immediately, but it’s highly recommended to start planning for a change. Existing gas boilers can continue to operate; however, maintenance costs will rise and future restrictions will apply.
If your boiler is over 10 years old, its efficiency has likely decreased, while repair costs may already be high. In this case, switching to aerothermal heating is a smart long-term investment.
Aerothermal energy: the definitive alternative to gas boilers
Aerothermal technology is firmly established as the most compliant and sustainable alternative under the new European framework. Compared to gas boilers, it provides a clean, versatile, and future-ready heating system.
If you’re considering upgrading your home’s heating system, now is the time. Take advantage of the available grants, get ahead of the new regulations, and choose a technology that delivers both comfort and savings on your energy bill.
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