If you're wondering whether you can get a new boiler under the government scheme, the answer is yes - you might be eligible. The main route is the ECO4 scheme, with free or fully-funded replacement boilers for those who meet the criteria. In this blog post, I'll walk you through what's covered in the scheme, who's eligible, how to apply, and things to look out for.
What is the Free Boiler Scheme (ECO4)?
The ECO4 scheme is the latest part of the UK government's heating & energy-efficiency initiative. It is part of the more long-standing Energy Company Obligation support scheme, which seeks to help low-income households upgrade their boiler systems, reduce bills, and reduce carbon emissions.
Under ECO4, you can get the likes of a brand new, efficient boiler (typically A-rated condensing type) installed for zero or minimal up-front cost, if you qualify.
Why the Scheme Matters?
Let's break it down: if you're spending more than you need to on heat and you've got a property with an old, inefficient boiler, the scheme could be a genuine game-changer.
New boilers pay for themselves. They provide the same warmth for a lower fuel cost.
A new boiler might lower your bills, heat your home more effectively, and cut carbon emissions.
The ECO4 grant can wipe out the initial cost hurdle, so you don't pay thousands to save money.
So if you've been putting a boiler replacement off because of the expense, then this scheme is a real chance.
Who Can Get the Free Boiler Grant?
It all comes down to eligibility. This is how it goes:
Your Household Status
To be eligible, usually one or more individuals within your household have to receive qualifying benefits such as:
Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
Income-based Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)
Income Support Allowance (ISA)
Working Tax Credit (WTC)
Child Tax Credit (CTC)
Universal Credit (UC)
Pension Guarantee Credit
Pension Savings Credit
Child Benefit
Housing Benefit
If you're not eligible for benefits, you may still qualify through so-called "flexible eligibility" (for example, a low-income household with an older, less energy-efficient home) — this varies locally.
The Energy Efficiency of Your Property
Your property should normally have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with a rating of D, E, F, or G. That is: your property is considered less energy efficient.
Your Current Boiler/Heating System
You must have an existing, inefficient, or old boiler (or heating system). Non-condensing boilers or pre-2005 fitted boilers, for example, are likely to fit the bill.
If you are a renter, you still qualify - but your landlord must agree to the fitting.
Ownership & Type of Fuel
You must own the property or be a private tenant (with agreement from your landlord). Whether the fuel you use makes a difference, too, and your installer will be able to advise if your current system is eligible for replacement under ECO4.
What Does the Scheme Pay For?
If eligible, the scheme can fund:
The boiler itself (a new, efficient boiler).
The installation costs (labor, old boiler removal, pipework as necessary).
At times, additional work (e.g., insulating, smart controls) if necessary to align the boiler fitting with the regulations.
In all but a few cases, the cost is zero to you upfront. That is, you will not have to pay anything when it gets installed.
How to Apply for the Free Boiler Scheme
Here's a quick step-by-step of what to do:
Check if you are eligible: Are you receiving qualifying benefits? What is your property's EPC rating? Is your boiler old or inefficient? Tools and free audits are available online.
Call an approved installer: They will come to survey your home and boiler, inspect fuel type, and confirm eligibility under ECO4.
Agree plans & schedule installation: Should you be accepted, the installer will do everything for you: removal of the old boiler, supply and fitting of the new one, and any necessary enhancements.
Installation: Done the job, and you have a new boiler, most likely with details on warranty and servicing.
What You Should Watch Out For
Check that the installer is registered and works under the ECO4 scheme.
Make sure you understand what you are getting (what size boiler, make, guarantee).
Don't assume all boilers are free - while the vast majority of eligible homes have full cover under ECO4, a minority will still have to contribute if other work is needed on top of the installation of a new boiler.
Make sure you get your landlord's consent if you're a tenant - without landlord consent, you may not qualify.
Beware of scams - some firms may deceive about eligibility or try to profit out of something that shouldn't cost. Always require upfront documentation.
What Are the Benefits?
No cost upfront (if eligible) - big advantage if finances are tight.
Lower energy bills - a more efficient boiler, so less energy is consumed.
Warm home - better performance leads to greater comfort.
Lower carbon emissions - you'll be consuming less fuel for the same heat.
Peace of mind - it will fall apart, better reliability, and in some cases, longer warranties.
Who Might Not Qualify?
If you receive no qualifying benefits and your earnings exceed the thresholds, you might be excluded (if you qualify under the flexible/local authority scheme).
Your property might have a high EPC rating already (e.g., A-C) - that reduces the chance of full cover under ECO4.
If you’re a social housing tenant, or the property is managed differently, the scheme route might differ.
If your boiler is not considered “inefficient enough” (e.g., a relatively new boiler), the scheme might not apply.
Some fuel types and new builds may have other rules or exclusions.
The Bottom Line
If you live in a property with an antiquated, clunky old boiler, sky-high bills, and you're on certain benefits, it's worth exploring if you could be entitled to the free boiler scheme on ECO4. It's a straightforward process, and the benefits are enormous: reduced bills, greater comfort, and no upfront cost.
Don't leave it until your boiler completely breaks down. If you're eligible, you could be fitted with a new, efficient one today and benefit from saving money and inconvenience in the long term.
Would you like a free downloadable checklist or form that readers can fill in to see if they are scheme-eligible and track their application? I can make that available to your blog readers.
