LPG vs. Air Source Heat Pumps: Which Heating System Is Best for Your Business?

When it comes to heating your business premises, making the right decision can mean more than just cutting down on bills - it can also support your sustainability goals, provide comfort for your team and customers and futureproof your heating system for years to come.

Two options often compared are LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) boilers and Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs). But which is best for your business?

Let’s break it down:

Understanding the Basics

LPG Heating System

LPG boilers work in a similar way to traditional gas boilers, but they use stored gas cylinders or tanks rather than mains gas. This makes them a popular choice for businesses off the mains gas grid, such as rural offices, hospitality venues and agricultural sites.

Air Source Heat Pumps

ASHP systems extract heat from the outside air, even when it’s cold and use it to warm your building. They’re considered low-carbon and energy-efficient, but they do require electricity and a well-insulated property to perform at their best.

Which Heating System is Right for Your Business?

Heating for Small Retail Shops & Boutiques

If space is at a premium and you need something relatively low-maintenance, an LPG system might seem the simpler choice. Installation is straightforward, and the system operates much like a traditional boiler.

However, if your shop is well insulated and you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, an air source heat pump could help you stand out to eco-conscious customers and reduce energy costs over time.

Heating for Cafés, Restaurants & Hospitality

For businesses that rely on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, heat pumps offer consistent background heating and can double up with cooling functions in summer. But keep in mind: these systems require a bit of space outdoors and work best when running continuously rather than in short bursts.

LPG, on the other hand, may better suit kitchens or venues with fluctuating energy use patterns, especially where hot water demands are high or insulation isn’t ideal. It’s also a more familiar system for many business owners, which can help if staff aren’t trained in newer tech.

Heating for Offices & Co-working Spaces

Office spaces that are open plan and well insulated are perfect for air source heat pumps. The steady, even heating helps maintain comfort across the workspace (which can boost productivity). Plus, businesses aiming for net-zero targets will appreciate the environmental side.

However, if your building is older or you’re operating from a converted property without great insulation, LPG might deliver more consistent warmth during the colder months.

Heating for Warehouses & Workshops

Large spaces with roller doors and high ceilings can be challenging to heat efficiently. While LPG boilers can deliver a quick burst of heat, they may not be the most cost-effective over time. ASHPs can be less effective in poorly insulated industrial settings, so this is where it’s worth having an expert assess your site.

In some cases, hybrid systems or zone heating setups could be more suitable.

Smart Heating System Costs, Installation & Maintenance

• LPG boilers typically have a lower upfront cost and installation is usually quick if storage facilities already exist. But fuel prices can fluctuate, and tanks need regular top-ups and safety checks.

• Air source heat pump installations have a higher initial cost and may require some structural changes (like improved insulation or radiator upgrades), but running costs are often lower, and they tend to require less maintenance over time.

For growing businesses or those planning a long-term premises strategy, investing in a heat pump might make more sense in the long run.

Other Considerations

Comfort matters. Not just for customers, but for your staff too. Consistent temperatures can improve morale and reduce health-related absences. If your current system is struggling to keep up with demand or needs constant maintenance, it might be time to consider an upgrade.

There’s also a growing skills gap in heating engineers trained to maintain traditional fossil-fuel boilers. While LPG is still well supported, it’s worth thinking about future service availability. Heat pump technology is gaining popularity, and more professionals are training specifically in renewable heating systems.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right heating solution depends on your building, your energy use, your budget and your long-term goals. If you're based in or around Norwich, our friendly team here at Smart Heating EA Ltd can assess your property, talk you through your options, and find the right fit.

Are you based in Norwich or the surrounding areas? Get in touch with us today on 07990 665002 to find out how we can help upgrade your home heating system.