What is dual fuel heating and how does it work?

Dual fuel heating lets you use two power sources—typically your gas central heating and mains electricity—so you can run radiators or towel rails with the boiler in winter and switch them on electrically when you only need localised heat.

Traditional central heating

Most UK homes use a gas boiler to heat water, which circulates through pipework to radiators. It’s efficient for whole‑home heating.

Electric heating

Where gas isn’t practical—remote locations, some flats, mobile homes—electric heaters (wall‑mounted or portable) provide room‑by‑room heat from the mains.

Dual fuel: the best of both

Dual fuel systems support both sources. Many bathrooms already use dual fuel towel rails: they heat with your central heating, and can also be switched on electrically without the boiler.

• Single fuel (central heating): Heats only when the boiler runs.
• Single fuel (electric): Heats via a wall switch, independent of the boiler.
• Dual fuel: Works either with the boiler or via an electric element.

Why choose dual fuel?

• Summer convenience: Dry towels or warm a bathroom without turning on the whole heating system.
• Spot heating: Warm a conservatory or seldom‑used room as needed, electrically.
• Flexibility: Use the boiler for whole‑home heat in winter; use electric for quick, targeted warmth.

Considerations before you switch

• Adding dual fuel to wet systems: Straightforward, but always use a qualified electrician for wiring.
• Upgrading electric‑only homes: Installing a boiler and pipework increases cost and disruption—plan for plumbing, electrics, and finishing work.

Overall, dual fuel gives you more control and can reduce running costs by avoiding unnecessary whole‑home heating.

View Dual Fuel Heated Towel Rails

Related articles

• Eco‑friendly and green energy radiator options
• Do radiator materials affect heating output?
• How to install a dual fuel heated towel rail