Is your boiler old, inefficient, costly to run or even on the blink? It is certainly worth taking the time to see if you could qualify for a free boiler grant back by the UK government, to save finding the money to cover the costly bill on a new boiler replacement.
A simple application in under 2 minutes is all it takes to assess if you meet the criteria to be eligible for a boiler grant. If you qualify you can be entitled to a grant covering up to 100% cost of a brand new A-rated efficient boiler and installation by a Gas Safe engineer.
Not only will this save you forking out for the cost of the boiler replacement, but also save you money on your heating bills over time.
On average your household could save up to £315 every year with a new efficient boiler, as well as reducing your household carbon footprint.
Why Upgrading Your Boiler is Important
Replacing an old or inefficient boiler can lead to significant energy savings. Here are some key reasons why upgrading your boiler is a wise choice:
- Lower Energy Bills: Newer boilers are more efficient, often achieving efficiency ratings of over 90%, meaning they use less fuel to produce the same amount of heat.
- Reduced Carbon Emissions: Boilers account for a significant portion of a household’s carbon emissions. An efficient boiler can drastically reduce your environmental footprint.
- Improved Home Comfort: Modern boilers heat homes more evenly and reach desired temperatures faster.
- Increased Property Value: Upgrading your boiler can be an attractive feature for potential buyers, adding to the value of your home.
EPC Requirements Under ECO4
ECO4 requires households to submit an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). In homes with existing EPC bands F or G, grants must elevate the rating to at least band D. For those in bands D or E, the goal is a minimum of band C. So if your EPC score meets the criteria, you must apply for the grant. By doing so, you’ll be able to save lots of money on home upgrades. Moreover, you’ll save money on installation. This is because the scheme already covers installation costs. So from boiler replacement to installation, you’ve to pay nothing. This is a free scheme for all home upgrades. But again, your EPC score must be as per the criteria.
ECO4 and GBIS
The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS), formerly ECO+, has bolsters ECO since September 2023. Aiming to insulate 300,000+ homes in England, Scotland, and Wales, it runs alongside ECO4. With a £1 billion budget, it targets lower council tax bands, offering support for roof, loft, or cavity wall insulation.
Unlike ECO4, GBIS extends eligibility beyond income or benefits. It prioritizes households with low council tax (A-D in England, A-E in Scotland and Wales) and an EPC rating of D or below.
Measures covered under ECO4 Scheme
The ECO4 scheme covers several heating measures. Look at the following:
- Upgrade from a non-condensing boiler to an A-rated boiler.
- Replace inefficient storage heaters with high heat retention storage heaters.
- Upgrade inefficient heating systems to air-source heat pumps.
- Install wall insulation (cavity wall or internal wall insulation).
- Add loft or roof insulation.
- Address ventilation needs.
- Enhance heating controls for improved efficiency.