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With the arrival of winter and rising electricity prices, the question returns of which heating system is truly the most economical for an apartment. An analysis of the main alternatives—natural gas, electric heaters, radiators, heat pumps and pellet stoves—shows that each one offers different levels of initial investment, consumption and efficiency. Gas stands out for its stability and comfort; electric heaters and resistance-based devices provide immediate heat but with high consumption; and options such as aerothermal systems or biomass point towards greater efficiency and sustainability.
Data from the CNMC, the Biomass Price Index, Red Eléctrica de España, the PVPC tariff, the OCU and the IDAE allow for a comparison of monthly costs in an 80 m² apartment. The most expensive systems are resistance heaters (€150–210) and portable electric heaters (€120–170), followed by electric radiators (€150–200) and natural gas (€80–100). In contrast, heat pumps, with an average cost of €60–90, and pellet stoves, at €70–100, offer the lowest bills thanks to their high energy efficiency and stable fuel prices.
The final cost also depends on factors such as the size and insulation of the apartment, the climate zone, usage habits, hours of operation and energy price fluctuations. Good insulation significantly reduces required power; colder regions need more robust systems; and programming heating during cheaper hours can save up to 20%. Therefore, the ideal system varies depending on the type of home: gas is advisable in cold areas with an existing installation; heat pumps work best in mild climates; and biomass suits those with storage space.
In response to the main question—what is the most economical heating for an apartment?—the conclusion is clear: heat pumps are the cheapest option, closely followed by pellet stoves. Furthermore, when comparing natural gas with aerothermal energy, aerothermal systems are up to 25% more economical per kWh in the long run, although they require a higher initial investment. As a result, high-efficiency technologies and renewable fuels are consolidating themselves as the most cost-effective alternatives for winter.