
If your energy bills are too high or your boiler's been acting up, you're not alone. Good news? There’s government help that can save you serious money. Whether you’re looking to replace your old boiler or upgrade to a heat pump, this guide will show you how to get support through boiler grants UK and the air source heat pump government grant.
The government is pushing for cleaner, cheaper heating across the UK. That means cutting down on gas boilers and encouraging people to switch to energy-saving systems like heat pumps. To make this affordable, they offer financial help through two main schemes:
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
Energy Company Obligation (ECO4)
Both are designed to help homeowners save on heating costs and make their homes more energy efficient.
Boiler grants are part of the ECO4 scheme. This program helps households on lower incomes replace old, inefficient boilers with newer models that use less energy. In many cases, the grant covers the full cost.
You own your home
Your current boiler is old, faulty, or inefficient
You receive certain benefits (like Universal Credit or Pension Credit)
Laura lives in a semi-detached house and was struggling with a 15-year-old boiler that often broke down. She found out about the boiler grant, applied through a certified installer, and had a brand-new boiler installed without paying a penny. Her monthly energy bill dropped by about £35.
Find a certified installer in your area
They’ll check if your home and boiler qualify
If approved, they’ll handle the grant and installation
It’s a simple process, and the installer does most of the work for you.
If you're thinking bigger and greener, air source heat pumps are worth a look. They pull heat from the outside air to warm your home and hot water. The government wants more people to use them, so they’re offering a air source heat pump government grant of £7,500 under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
Homeowners and landlords
Those replacing oil, gas, or electric systems
Homes with a valid EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)
Tom and Priya had an old oil boiler that cost a fortune to run. After checking with a local installer, they learned they could get £7,500 toward a heat pump. Their total bill came to £4,200 after the grant. Now, their home is warm year-round and their heating costs are more stable.
Contact an MCS-certified installer
They’ll handle the application for you
The grant is applied as a discount to your final cost
No complicated forms or red tape—just a straightforward way to save.
Choosing between a boiler grant and a heat pump grant depends on your specific needs and circumstances. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) offers a £7,500 grant towards the cost of installing a heat pump, while the ECO4 scheme provides a free or reduced-cost boiler.
The ECO4 boiler grant usually requires you to meet certain income criteria, whereas the BUS grant does not involve an income test. When it comes to eligibility, both schemes are open to homeowners, although ECO4 may also apply to some tenants.
From an environmental perspective, heat pumps have a higher eco impact, making them a greener choice. In terms of ongoing savings, heat pumps also tend to offer greater reductions in running costs compared to traditional boilers.
If you’re looking for the most eco-friendly and future-proof system, a heat pump is the better choice. But if your budget is tight and you need a working boiler fast, ECO4 can help right now.
Energy prices are unpredictable, and old systems only cost more to run over time. These grants make it easier to upgrade without breaking the bank.
Plus, funding is limited. Once it’s gone, it’s gone. That means if you're even thinking about a heating upgrade, it’s worth checking if you qualify now.
Always go through certified installers. They’ll know exactly what paperwork you need and how to maximise your savings. Most even offer free home checks.
Can renters apply for these grants?
Not directly. But landlords can apply for the heat pump grant. If you're a tenant, talk to your landlord about it.
Do heat pumps really work in cold weather?
Yes. Modern heat pumps are designed for year-round use and work efficiently, even when it’s cold outside.
Are there extra costs for heat pumps?
There may be some upfront costs, but the £7,500 grant covers a big part of it. Over time, many homeowners save more than they spent.
Can I apply for both grants?
Usually, you pick one path—either get help replacing your boiler or switch to a heat pump. Your installer will advise what’s best.
If your boiler is giving you trouble or your bills are getting too high, don’t wait. Boiler grants UK and the air source heat pump government grant are designed to help people just like you make smart upgrades.
Check your eligibility, talk to an installer, and find out how much you could save. It’s not just about staying warm—it’s about doing it smarter and cheaper.