The winter of 2025-2026 is shaping up to be one of the coldest in Spain, according to the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), with a particular impact on the northern half of the country. This weather forecast coincides with the end of subsidies for gas boilers starting in January 2025, increasing pressure on families to modernize their heating systems and avoid excessive energy expenditure.
The European Union has intensified its efforts toward the transition to cleaner energy, withdrawing incentives for heating systems based on fossil fuels. However, its use is not prohibited, which obliges consumers to seek more efficient and environmentally friendly solutions. In this context, aerothermal energy or heat pumps are shaping up as the future of heating, representing around 30% of new domestic installations.
Enrique Calvo, manager of Más Que Calderas, explains that although the heat pump is a promising alternative, condensing boilers represent a practical solution for many homes due to their easy installation and maintenance. Despite the lack of economic incentives, the need for efficiency and saving is critical in the face of a winter expected to be particularly harsh.
For those who choose to continue with gas, latest-generation condensing boilers offer greater efficiency and fuel savings compared with earlier models. In addition, hybrid systems, which combine condensing boilers with heat pumps, are presented as an efficient intermediate option, integrating a significant use of renewable energies.
The condition of old boilers is also a cause for concern, since those over ten years old can lose up to 25% of their efficiency. Thus, renewing these systems is essential for controlling the monthly energy expenditure and for facing the harshness of the coming winter.
Although gas prices remain relatively stable, the cost tied to consumption during the winter continues to be a concern. A poorly maintained boiler or insufficient insulation could offset any savings on the tariff. Therefore, the renewal of equipment and responsible management of energy consumption become key strategies.
Experts recommend inspecting or replacing boilers that are more than a decade old, improving insulation and window quality, and opting for smart thermostats for optimal temperature control. Efficient ventilation without heat loss is also essential to maintain a comfortable environment.
With a challenging winter on the horizon, investing in efficient solutions such as modern boilers, hybrid systems, or heat pumps, together with improvements in insulation and control, not only promises significant energy savings but also ensures a better quality of life and contributes to a more sustainable future. Consulting with experts is crucial to determine the best available options, especially in areas such as Madrid, where demand will be high.
