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Electric radiators, heat pumps, or natural gas—each system has its advantages and is better suited to different types of homes and lifestyles. That's why we're here to help you compare the most popular options so you can find the one that best suits your needs, and start the cold season with the peace of mind that comes from making a good decision.
How to choose the best heating system for your home
Before choosing the most suitable heating system for your home, it's important to consider several aspects that will affect both your comfort and your energy consumption during the winter.
The size of your home and its level of thermal insulation are key to knowing how much energy you will need to maintain a comfortable temperature. The climate in your area also plays a role, as heating a house on the coast is different from heating one in an inland region with more extreme temperatures.
Another important factor is how you use your heating—whether you turn it on for short periods or keep it active for many hours a day. Furthermore, the availability of existing installations, such as a connection to the gas network, may make it easier to choose certain systems over others that require building work or additional investment.
And finally, your initial budget and the long-term maintenance costs will help you decide whether you prefer a quick and cost-effective solution, or a more efficient and sustainable long-term investment.
Electric radiators: immediate comfort, higher consumption
If you're looking for a hassle-free alternative, electric radiators can be a good option. They don't require complex installation or maintenance, and they offer instant heat, making them ideal for small rooms or homes that are not used frequently.
Advantages of electric radiators
- They are easy to install, as they don't require building work or a high initial investment, making them an accessible solution for any type of home.
- You don't need a gas connection or to make modifications to your electrical installation.
- Since they are portable, you can move them from one room to another as needed, allowing you to heat only the spaces you are using and avoid unnecessary consumption.
- Electric radiators offer an immediate response when turned on, which is very useful for specific moments, like when you get up in the morning or arrive home on a cold day.
Disadvantages of electric radiators
- They have high energy consumption. Since they run on electricity, their cost can be considerable if they are used for many hours a day.
- They are not recommended for large spaces, as they are designed to heat small rooms or for specific purposes. In large homes or those with high ceilings, their capacity may fall short, and consumption will soar as they try to maintain a constant temperature.
- They do not accumulate residual heat; once they are turned off, they stop emitting heat almost immediately, so the room cools down quickly when they are not running.
The estimated consumption of a 1,500 W radiator turned on for 5 hours a day can be around 225 kWh per month, which is equivalent to about €50 to €65 per month, depending on the contracted electricity tariff.
Heat pump: maximum efficiency and dual function (heating/cooling)
The heat pump is one of the most efficient and sustainable solutions for year-round climate control in your home. It works by extracting energy from the outside air and transforming it into heat to warm the inside of the home. In summer, the process is reversed, and it acts as an air conditioner, making it a very versatile option.
Advantages of heat pumps
- It has very high energy performance, as for every kWh of electricity it consumes, it can generate between 3 and 4 kWh of thermal energy.
- It provides both heating in winter and cooling in summer, meaning it can be used all year round.
- It is compatible with self-consumption systems like solar panels, which can further reduce energy costs and improve the home's overall efficiency.
Disadvantages of heat pumps
- It requires a higher initial investment than other systems, although it pays for itself over time thanks to savings in consumption.
- Its installation must be carried out by a qualified professional, as it involves a technical assessment of the space and correct configuration of the equipment.
- In areas with very cold winters, it may require an additional support system to maintain thermal comfort.
A heat pump unit with a Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 3 can generate 3 kWh of heat for every 1 kWh of electricity consumed. This translates to an approximate monthly cost of between €25 and €40 in an average, well-insulated home, which represents a considerable saving compared to other less efficient systems.
Natural gas: constant heat and moderate cost
Natural gas remains one of the most widely used options in Spain, especially in urban areas where the distribution network is well-established. It is a reliable solution that provides a stable temperature throughout the home, ideal for those looking for a continuous and even heating system.
Advantages of natural gas
- It provides constant and uniform heat in all rooms, which improves thermal comfort in large homes.
- The cost per kWh is usually lower than that of electricity, allowing you to keep the heating on for longer without the bill soaring.
- It is compatible with central heating systems and can be used with programmable thermostats, making it easy to control consumption and temperature.
Disadvantages of natural gas
- It requires a connection to the gas network and the installation of a boiler, which can mean an initial investment if you don't already have one.
- It generates CO₂ emissions, so it is not the most environmentally sustainable option.
- It is not available in all areas, especially rural areas or those far from urban centres.
A natural gas boiler in a medium-sized home can provide heating for a monthly cost of between €35 and €55, depending on use, the contracted tariff, and the efficiency of the equipment.
Direct comparison: consumption, cost, and sustainability
Choosing the most suitable heating system doesn't just depend on how well it heats or how much it costs, but also on its environmental impact and long-term efficiency. Here is a clear comparison between electric radiators, heat pumps, and natural gas to help you make the best decision.
| System | Estimated monthly consumption | Approximate monthly cost | Energy sustainability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric radiators | High | €50–65 | Medium |
| Heat pump | Low | €25–40 | High |
| Natural gas | Average | €35–55 | Low |
What is best this winter (2025)
This winter, opting for an efficient heating system can help you stay comfortable without your energy bill soaring.
If your priority is sustainability and long-term savings, a heat pump is the most recommended option. Its energy performance is far superior to other systems, and you can also use it all year round.
For homes without an existing installation or for occasional use, electric radiators can be a practical and economical solution.
And if you already have a natural gas installation, this system is still cost-competitive, although less flexible and not as environmentally friendly.
Which system heats a house fastest?
Electric radiators stand out for their speed: they offer immediate heat when turned on, which is useful at specific times.
A heat pump takes a few minutes to reach the desired temperature, but it does so more efficiently and maintains stable comfort levels.
Natural gas provides constant and even heat, although it needs more time to heat large spaces, especially if the home is not well insulated.
Which is more efficient in the long term?
The heat pump is, without a doubt, the most efficient system in the long term. For every 1 kWh of electricity it consumes, it can generate between 3 and 4 kWh of heat, which translates into lower energy consumption and a significant reduction in the monthly bill. Furthermore, if combined with renewable energy sources like solar panels, the savings can be even greater.
Is gas or electricity cheaper?
Natural gas usually has a lower price per kWh than electricity, but the efficiency of modern electric systems, especially heat pumps, can offset that difference. Also, if you have an electricity tariff with time-of-use pricing, you can schedule its use during off-peak hours and reduce the monthly cost even further.
Can I combine systems?
Yes, and in fact, it's quite a common practice. You can use a heat pump as your main system and supplement it with electric radiators to heat specific areas or at specific times. It's also possible to combine it with a gas boiler to boost the system on particularly cold days. This flexibility allows you to adapt your consumption to your real needs and optimise your energy spending.
Are there grants or subsidies?
Currently, there are grants available for the installation of efficient systems like heat pumps, especially if they are integrated with renewable energy sources. These grants can cover up to 40% of the installation cost, depending on the autonomous community, the type of home, and the level of energy efficiency achieved with the renovation.
Are there subsidies or grants in winter?
Although many calls for applications are published in the spring, you can also access grants to improve your heating system during the winter. The autonomous communities keep support lines open, including the Plan Renove (Replacement Scheme), which aims to encourage the replacement of old boilers, radiators, and other equipment with more efficient and sustainable solutions.
In addition, the Bono Social Térmico (Social Heating Bonus) is still in effect as state aid for vulnerable households. It is granted automatically to those who already receive the Bono Social Eléctrico (Electric Social Bonus), and it covers part of the cost of heating, hot water, and cooking.
To find out which grants are active in your community, it's best to consult the IDAE portal and the official websites of your autonomous community's government. There you will find the requirements, deadlines, and documentation needed to apply for them.
This winter, energy efficiency and savings go hand in hand; protect yourself from the cold and from surprises on your bill. Choosing an efficient heating system not only helps you maintain comfort at home, it also allows you to look after your wallet every day. At Endesa, we support you through this process with personalised advice and solutions tailored to your home, so your heating always works at maximum performance.
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You don't need to adapt to Endesa's tariffs because they adapt to you. If you go to our catalogue you can compare the different tariffs for yourself. Or if you prefer, you can answer a few questions and we will take care of comparing all the different electricity and gas tariffs and then make a customised recommendation.
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You don't need to adapt to Endesa's tariffs because they adapt to you. If you go to our catalogue you can compare the different tariffs for yourself. Or if you prefer, you can answer a few questions and we will take care of comparing all the different electricity and gas tariffs and then make a customised recommendation.
Comparison of Electricity and Gas Tariffs
You don't need to adapt to Endesa's tariffs because they adapt to you. If you go to our catalogue you can compare the different tariffs for yourself. Or if you prefer, you can answer a few questions and we will take care of comparing all the different electricity and gas tariffs and then make a customised recommendation.
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