Heating your French property efficiently is essential, especially with rising energy costs and evolving environmental standards. The type of heating system you choose will impact your long-term comfort, budget, and carbon footprint. Options range from traditional woodburners and oil boilers to modern heat pumps and solar systems.
This guide covers the main types of heating systems available in France, including their average installation costs, pros and cons, and suitability for different property types, from stone farmhouses to modern homes. Whether you’re renovating a rural property or buying a new build, understanding your options will help you make informed, cost-effective decisions.
Table of contents
Traditional woodburners and log stoves
Woodburners remain one of the most popular heating options for rural French properties, especially among expats renovating older homes. They provide reliable, off-grid warmth and are well-suited to stone farmhouses and cottages with existing chimneys.
Types of woodburners
- Freestanding stoves: Independent units placed in a room; simple to install with a flue.
- Insert stoves: Built into an existing fireplace, offering better heat retention and efficiency.
Pros and cons of wood heating
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable fuel (especially in rural areas) | Requires regular cleaning and ash disposal |
| Off-grid option with low electricity use | Heat is localised unless paired with a distribution system |
| Creates a cosy, traditional atmosphere | Must store dry wood (ideally 12–24 months seasoned) |
Installation and running costs
- Installation: 1,000 € – 3,000 € (including flue and basic work)
- Log burner unit: 500 € – 2,500 € depending on brand and output
- Annual wood supply: Approx. 400 € – 800 € per year (for 8–10 steres of wood)
- Chimney sweep (required annually): 50 € – 100 €
In France, it is mandatory to have your chimney swept at least once a year, twice if used heavily.
Regulatory considerations
- Installation must comply with RT2012 standards and local building codes.
- Chimneys and flues must be certified and swept regularly for insurance and safety compliance.
- In certain départements, local bans or restrictions may apply on older, high-emission models.
➡️ If you’re considering heating for a countryside home, see our related article on renovating rural properties in France to understand insulation and heating efficiency.
Central heating systems in France
Central heating is a common solution in many French homes, offering consistent, whole-house warmth through radiators or underfloor systems. However, the type of energy used, gas, oil, or electric, can significantly affect both running costs and environmental impact.
Common types of central heating
- Gas boilers: Popular in towns with mains gas (gaz de ville), efficient but being phased out in favour of greener systems.
- Oil boilers: Common in rural areas without gas access; effective but expensive to run and considered less eco-friendly.
- Electric radiators: Easy to install, suitable for smaller or secondary homes, but can be costly with regular use.
- Underfloor heating: Found in modern builds or major renovations, compatible with both electric and heat pump systems.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Consistent temperature throughout house | Higher upfront cost than single-room solutions |
| Can be programmed for efficiency | Oil and gas prices can fluctuate significantly |
| Compatible with thermostats and zoning | Oil boilers face stricter emissions regulations |
Average installation and running costs
| System Type | Installation Cost | Annual Running Cost (avg.) |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Boiler | 3,000 € - 5,000 € | 1,000 € - 1,500 € |
| Oil Boiler | 4,000 € - 8,000 € | 1,500 € - 2,500 € |
| Electric Radiators | 1,000 € - 3,000 € | 1,200 € - 2,000 € |
| Underfloor Heating | 5,000 € - 10,000 € + | Varies (depends on energy source) |
Note: Many traditional boilers may need replacing by 2026 under France’s environmental targets. Installing a heat pump or hybrid system may be required in future.
Maintenance and compliance
- Boilers must be serviced annually by a qualified technician.
- Oil tanks over a certain size must meet environmental containment standards.
- Newer systems may be eligible for government incentives (see next section).
Renewable heating options
As France accelerates its transition to greener energy, renewable heating systems are becoming increasingly popular, particularly for new builds and eco-conscious renovations. Options like heat pumps, solar thermal systems, and biomass boilers offer long-term savings and potential eligibility for government subsidies such as MaPrimeRénov’.
Common renewable heating systems
- Air-source heat pumps (PAC air/air or air/water): Extract heat from outside air to warm radiators or underfloor systems.
- Ground-source heat pumps (geothermal): Use underground heat for highly efficient, low-emission heating.
- Solar thermal systems: Heat domestic hot water or contribute to central heating using solar collectors.
- Pellet stoves and biomass boilers: Burn wood pellets or chips, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low running costs after installation | High upfront cost |
| Eligible for MaPrimeRénov’ and energy bonuses | May require space for outdoor units or pellet storage |
| Significant reduction in CO₂ emissions | Not always suited to poorly insulated or small properties |
Typical costs and incentives
| System Type | Installation Cost | Annual Running Cost | Subsidy Eligible? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air-source heat pump | 8,000 € - 15,000 € | 400 € - 800 € | ✅ Yes (MaPrimeRénov’) |
| Ground-source pump | 12,000 € - 20,000 € + | 300 € - 700 € | ✅ Yes |
| Pellet stove | 3,000 € - 6,000 € | 500 € - 900 € (pellets) | ✅ Yes |
| Solar thermal | 4,000 € - 10,000 € | Very low (after setup) | ✅ Yes |
Installing renewable systems often requires upgraded insulation and airtightness to maximise efficiency. Check eligibility criteria with your local mairie or certified installer.
Green heating and energy efficiency in older properties
Many expats in France choose older stone farmhouses or village homes. While charming, these properties are often poorly insulated and not built with modern energy efficiency in mind. Choosing a green heating system in such cases means addressing insulation and airflow first, otherwise, even the best system will underperform.
Common challenges with older properties
- Thick stone walls that retain cold in winter
- Single-glazed windows and draughty doors
- Limited or no insulation in roofs or attics
- No existing central heating infrastructure
Improving efficiency before upgrading heating
Before installing a modern or renewable heating system, consider these upgrades:
- Roof and attic insulation: One of the most cost-effective energy improvements
- Double or triple glazing: Reduces heat loss and improves comfort
- Sealing gaps around windows and doors: Inexpensive and effective
- Internal wall insulation: Where feasible, especially in colder regions
These improvements can significantly reduce your heating bills and may also be eligible for grants or tax credits under schemes like CEE (Certificats d’Économie d’Énergie) or MaPrimeRénov’.
Heating system considerations for older homes in France
| System Type | Suitability for Older Homes |
|---|---|
| Pellet stove | ✅ Excellent for zoned heating in large rooms |
| Air-source heat pump | ⚠️ Works best with good insulation and underfloor heating |
| Oil boiler (legacy) | ✅ Common but less eco-friendly |
| Woodburner | ✅ Good standalone solution for living areas |
➡️ Considering renovating an older French home? Read our article on why French houses are so cheap for insights on the hidden costs and opportunities.
Comparative heating costs table
Choosing a heating system involves balancing upfront installation costs with long-term running expenses. The table below compares the most common systems used in French homes, considering both investment and efficiency.
Heating System Cost Comparison (Approximate)
| Heating Type | Installation Cost | Annual Running Cost | Maintenance | Subsidy Eligible |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Woodburner / Log Stove | 1,000 € – 3,000 € | 400 € – 800 € (logs) | Chimney sweep (80 €) | ❌ No |
| Oil Boiler | 4,000 € - 8,000 € | 1,500 € – 2,500 € | Annual service (150 €) | ❌ No (phasing out) |
| Gas Boiler | 3,000 € - 5,000 € | 1,000 € – 1,500 € | Annual service (150 €) | ✅ Limited |
| Electric Radiators | 1,000 € - 3,000 € | 1,200 € – 2,000 € | Low | ❌ No |
| Pellet Stove | 3,000 € - 6,000 € | 500 € – 900 € (pellets) | Ash cleaning, yearly | ✅ Yes |
| Air-Source Heat Pump | 8,000 € - 15,000 € | 400 € – 800 € | Annual check (150 €) | ✅ Yes (MaPrimeRénov') |
| Ground-Source Heat Pump | 12,000 € - 20,000 € + | 300 € – 700 € | Specialist maintenance | ✅ Yes |
| Solar Thermal System | 4,000 € - 10,000 € | Very low | Panel check-up (100 €) | ✅ Yes |
Costs vary by region, house size, and energy usage. Renewable systems may qualify for government incentives, significantly reducing upfront costs.
Choosing what's right for your property
The best heating system for your French home depends on several key factors, including property type, location, insulation, and how you plan to use the house (full-time residence, holiday home, or rental). A poorly matched system can lead to unnecessary costs and inefficiencies.
Key considerations
- Location and climate: Northern and mountainous regions require more robust systems (e.g. pellet stoves, central heating), while milder southern areas may be suited to electric radiators or solar systems.
- Property type and age: Renovated stone houses may benefit from log burners or biomass systems, while modern builds are often compatible with heat pumps and underfloor heating.
- Usage patterns: For part-time use (e.g. holiday homes), low-maintenance solutions like electric heating or woodburners are often more practical.
- Access to energy infrastructure: Mains gas may not be available in rural areas, making oil or electric alternatives more relevant. Ground-source heat pumps require outdoor space for excavation.
- Budget and long-term goals: If you plan to live in France long-term, investing in a renewable system may reduce running costs and future-proof your home against regulatory changes.
When to consult a heating professional
- You’re unsure about insulation or heat loss
- Your property is listed or in a protected zone
- You want to combine systems (e.g. woodburner + heat pump)
- You plan to apply for MaPrimeRénov’ or other grants
FAQs: Heating a home in France
Can I use a woodburner as my main heating system?
Yes, especially in well-insulated properties. However, to heat multiple rooms efficiently, you may need a distribution system or combine it with electric or central heating.
Are gas boilers being phased out in France?
Gas boilers are still permitted, but older models and oil-based systems are being discouraged. From 2026, stricter efficiency regulations will apply, favouring heat pumps and hybrid systems.
Do heating systems qualify for subsidies in France?
Yes. Systems like heat pumps, pellet stoves, and solar thermal setups may be eligible for state subsidies such as MaPrimeRénov’, depending on your income and the scope of work.
What’s the cheapest heating system to run in France?
Renewable systems like air-source heat pumps or pellet stoves tend to offer the lowest long-term running costs, especially when paired with proper insulation.
Is it difficult to switch heating systems in an old French house?
Not necessarily, but upgrades may require insulation improvements, space for equipment, and compliance with local building regulations. Always consult a professional before replacing or removing a heating system.
Final notes: Heating in France is a long-term investment
Choosing the right heating system for your French property is a balance of cost, comfort, and compliance. From traditional woodburners to advanced heat pumps, each solution has its own pros and cons depending on your property’s condition, location, and usage.
By understanding your options, and exploring potential grants and efficiency upgrades, you’ll be able to heat your home more affordably and sustainably, now and for years to come.
