Heating, Hot Water… Steps to Switch to All-Electric Before the Sharp Rise in Gas Prices

Gas prices could jump by 50% in the coming years. Twelve million French households are affected. Faced with this scheduled increase, switching to all-electric becomes a serious option: heavy initial investment, but real savings over time and freedom from gas. Here's how to proceed concretely.

Why Gas Prices Will Explode

A 50% Increase Affecting 12 Million Households

The forecasts are clear. The twelve million French households still heated by gas will experience a tariff increase of approximately 50%. This surge will affect all uses: heating, domestic hot water, cooking.

The timeline spans several years. You therefore have time to prepare. But waiting until the last minute will expose you to extended installation delays and bills that climb in the meantime.

Multiple Causes of This Surge

Several factors combine. New European energy taxation is being implemented gradually. Supply instability weighs heavily, particularly with geopolitical tensions in Iran and elsewhere. Finally, gas network maintenance costs are increasing mechanically: fewer connected customers, therefore charges spread over a narrower base.

The European Bureau of Consumer Unions, which includes notably CLCV and UFC-Que Choisir, has published a detailed study on this subject. The figures are unequivocal.

Electricity vs Gas: A Changing Equation

Electricity remains little or not impacted by geopolitical conflicts that cause gas prices to soar. Electricity rates show relative stability compared to gas. Anticipating now gives you a few years to stagger investments and prepare financial assistance applications under good conditions.

Switching to All-Electric: What It Really Costs

A Substantial Initial Investment

Let's be direct: the transition to all-electric is expensive in the short term. You'll need to spend several thousand euros depending on your current installation. But it's an investment, not just an expense.

Savings are measured over time. With gas rising by 50%, your return on investment accelerates. You also free yourself from a fossil fuel with unpredictable prices.

Solutions According to Your Budget and Installation

Several options exist. From simple radiator replacement to complete heat pump installation, the choice depends on your budget and current configuration.

First of all, have an initial diagnosis performed. A thermal and energy assessment helps you avoid sizing errors. Only a qualified professional can guide you correctly. Don't proceed blindly.

Replacing Gas Heating: Electric Radiators or Heat Pump

Option 1 — Independent Electric Radiators

You can remove your radiators connected to the boiler and replace them with autonomous electric units. Several types exist.

Convectors are the cheapest to purchase, but they consume enormously. Avoid them if you want to control your bill.

Inertia radiators represent the best compromise. A 1200 W low-consumption model is sufficient for a 15 m² room. Prices range from 250 to over 1000 euros depending on brand, model, and design. You'll find them in large DIY stores and specialized shops.

Storage radiators suit specific uses, particularly if you benefit from off-peak hours.

Installation remains simple. You can proceed room by room, which controls the investment. But beware: low-end equipment will cause your electricity consumption to explode.

Option 2 — Heat Pump: Keep Your Existing Radiators

The heat pump uses heat contained in air or ground to heat your home. It has become democratized in recent years and allows you to keep your current radiators.

High-temperature air-to-water heat pump is suitable if you have cast iron radiators and a moderately insulated house. Budget between 10,000 and 15,000 euros including installation. It heats your radiator water to high temperature, which compensates for average insulation.

Low-temperature air-to-water heat pump costs less, but requires a well-insulated home and suitable radiators. If your conditions allow it, it's the most economical option in use.

The thermal assessment is essential here. An undersized unit will leave you uncomfortable. An oversized unit consumes unnecessarily. Only a qualified professional can calculate the necessary power according to your surface area and insulation.

Replacing Domestic Hot Water Production

If Your Gas Boiler Provided Both Heating AND Hot Water

The most advantageous solution is the "2-in-1" heat pump. It supplies your radiators with hot water AND produces domestic water for shower and taps.

The budget ranges between 10,000 and 18,000 euros including installation. It's a substantial investment, but savings accumulate on heating and hot water. You recoup faster.

If Gas Only Served Hot Water (Radiators Already Electric)

Install a thermodynamic water heater. It works on the same principle as the heat pump, but only for domestic water.

Prices range from 500 to 5000 euros. Your consumption will be divided by two or three compared to a conventional electric tank. If your radiators are already electric, this is the only modification to plan.

Kitchen: Switching from Gas to Electric

No Miracle: You Must Replace Your Equipment

Oven and cooktop must be replaced. No conversion possible. It's a mandatory step.

Induction Cooktops: The Right Economic Choice

Induction cooktops consume 13% less than ceramic cooktops over a year. A three-burner model costs approximately 150 euros, excluding installation.

Installation remains simple if your electrical circuit is suitable. Check this point before buying.

Electric Oven: What Consumption to Expect

Consumption varies according to model and functions: convection, pyrolysis, etc. Consult the energy label before buying. It gives you a precise idea of annual expense.

Budgets vary widely according to ranges. Compare several models and prioritize energy efficiency rather than the lowest price.

Financial Assistance to Offset the Investment

MaPrimeRénov' and CEE: Which Equipment Is Eligible

Heat pumps are eligible under conditions. Amounts vary according to your income and type of equipment installed.

Golden rule: prepare the application BEFORE work. If you start installation before submitting your request, you lose all assistance. It's too late, no exceptions.

The Obligation to Use an RGE Professional

To receive assistance, you must use a certified RGE (Recognized Environmental Guarantor) craftsman. Verify this certification before signing the quote.

Request several comparative quotes. Three minimum. This allows you to compare prices, but also services and each company's reputation.

Local Assistance and Zero-Interest Loans

Regional or departmental programs can supplement national assistance. Inquire with your local authority.

The éco-PTZ allows you to finance your work without paying interest. Some assistance can be combined, others cannot. Check the specific conditions for your situation.

Planning Your Transition: Where to Start

Have a Complete Energy Assessment Performed

A thermal audit identifies heat losses in your home. It allows you to prioritize: sometimes, improving insulation before changing equipment is more profitable.

Budget between 300 and 800 euros for this audit. Some are subsidized according to your situation. It's an investment that helps you avoid costly mistakes.

Recommended Timeline for Transition

Start with domestic hot water. The investment is lower and you test your electrical installation.

Then tackle heating, which represents the major investment. Take time to properly prepare assistance applications.

Finish with the kitchen if your budget is tight. It's the least urgent item.

Anticipate several months between preparing assistance applications and actual installation. Delays can be long depending on periods.

Reduce Your Gas Consumption While Waiting

Lowering heating by one degree saves 7% on your bill. Improve temporary insulation: window seals, thermal curtains, door sweeps.

Optimize hot water temperature. Between 55 and 60°C is sufficient to prevent legionella without wasting.

These actions limit damage during transition. They save you a few hundred euros per year.

Pitfalls to Avoid When Switching to All-Electric

Don't Underestimate the Required Electrical Power

Check your current meter capacity. Switching to all-electric may require an increase in subscribed power, or even a switch to three-phase.

Contact your supplier to know costs and procedures. Do this before installing your new equipment.

Beware of Unscrupulous Installers

Beware of aggressive solicitation. Good professionals don't force your hand.

Always verify RGE certification and insurance. Compare at least three detailed quotes. Consult customer reviews and inquire about the company's seniority.

Don't Neglect Maintenance of New Equipment

A heat pump requires an annual maintenance contract. Budget between 150 and 200 euros per year. This maintenance guarantees installation performance and longevity.

Electric radiators require regular dusting. This optimizes their efficiency and prevents overconsumption.

Carefully keep your manufacturer warranties. Understand well what they cover and their duration.