Boiler Grants: How to Get Help with Costs
Are you struggling with the cost of replacing an old or inefficient boiler? You might be eligible for a government-funded grant that can cover the full cost of a new boiler! With rising energy bills, having an efficient heating system is more important than ever. Thankfully, the government offers grants to help low-income households replace their boilers for free under the ECO4 scheme. In this guide, we’ll explain how to apply, who qualifies, and how you can benefit from these life-changing grants to keep your home warm without the financial burden.
Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Scheme
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme is a government initiative that helps homeowners save money on their energy bills and make their homes more energy-efficient. It’s designed to support people in England, Scotland, and Wales who may be struggling with high energy costs or live in older homes that need improvements.
Energy companies are required to help with the cost of installing energy-saving measures in homes that need it the most. This could include improvements like cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, and even the replacement of an old or inefficient boiler. In some cases, the cost of a new boiler could be completely covered, meaning you could get a free replacement.
This scheme is particularly beneficial for people on lower incomes or those with older, inefficient heating systems. If you qualify, you could get the help you need to make your home warmer and your energy bills more affordable without paying anything upfront.
Am I Eligible for ECO Funding?
The ECO funding is a limited program, so not everyone will qualify. However, if you meet certain conditions, you might be eligible for a free or subsidized boiler replacement or other energy-saving improvements in your home.
To be eligible, you must:
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Own your home or have permission from your landlord to apply for the grant.
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Be receiving one of the following benefits or allowances:
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Child Benefit
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Pension Guarantee Credit (for those over 65)
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Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
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Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
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Income Support
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Tax Credits (including Child Tax Credits and Working Tax Credits)
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Universal Credit
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Housing Benefit
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Pension Credit Saving Credit (if you receive a state pension)
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While these are some of the common benefits that may qualify you, your energy supplier will have its own rules and criteria, so it’s best to check with them directly to confirm what you’re eligible for.
Boiler Replacement Grant
If you’re ready to upgrade your home’s heating system, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) can help you save thousands. This government-backed initiative helps households in England and Wales switch to cleaner, low-carbon heating systems like heat pumps or biomass boilers.
By making the switch, you’re not only reducing your heating costs but also supporting the UK’s efforts to cut carbon emissions from homes. The best part? No extra insulation is needed to qualify!
Eligibility for Boiler Replacement
To qualify for a boiler replacement under the scheme, your current heating system should meet these requirements:
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The boiler should be at least 15 years old.
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Non-condensing gas boilers (the older, less efficient type) are given priority for replacement.
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The boiler must be the main heating source for your home, meaning it’s used to heat your home and hot water.
If your boiler meets these conditions, you may be eligible for a new, more efficient system with the help of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
