The Government Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides financial support towards the cost of installing eligible low-carbon heating systems in England and Wales. Rather than covering the entire installation, the scheme offers a fixed grant that can help reduce the upfront cost of replacing a traditional heating system with a heat pump or another eligible technology.
The amount available depends on the type of heating system being installed and the current scheme rules. Homeowners should also remember that eligibility requirements apply, so not every property or heating system will automatically qualify.
How Much Money Can You Get?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme has historically offered grants of up to £7,500 for eligible air source and ground source heat pump installations. The exact amount available depends on the technology and the applicable scheme rules at the time of application.
The grant is normally handled through an approved installer, who applies for the funding on behalf of the property owner. The value of the grant is then taken into account when calculating the installation cost.
What Can the Grant Help With?
Depending on eligibility, the funding can contribute towards:
- An eligible air source heat pump
- An eligible ground source heat pump
- Installation and associated work covered by the scheme
- Replacing an existing fossil-fuel heating system with an eligible low-carbon alternative
The homeowner is generally responsible for paying any remaining balance after the grant has been applied.
Who Can Qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
Eligibility depends on several factors relating to the property, existing heating system and proposed installation.
Potential applicants generally need to meet requirements such as:
- Owning the property or meeting the relevant property-owner requirements
- Having an eligible existing heating system
- Installing an eligible low-carbon heating system
- Using an installer approved for the scheme
- Meeting the scheme’s technical and property requirements
Meeting one requirement does not automatically mean that funding will be approved. The installer should check the property and proposed system before the installation is arranged.
Does the Scheme Pay for the Whole Installation?
No. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a grant towards the installation cost, rather than a guarantee that the entire project will be free.
For example, if an eligible installation costs more than the available grant, the homeowner will normally need to pay the remaining amount. The final price can vary depending on factors such as:
- Property size
- Heat pump type
- Existing heating system
- Required plumbing or electrical work
- Radiator upgrades
- Installation complexity
- Location and labour costs
It is therefore useful to obtain a detailed quotation before making a decision.
Is an Old Boiler Required?
Having an older boiler does not necessarily mean you automatically qualify for the scheme. Eligibility depends on the existing heating system and the other requirements in force when the application is made.
Knowing the age and condition of your current boiler can still help when discussing a replacement. If you are unsure, checking how old is my boiler can be a useful starting point before speaking with an approved heating installer.
What Happens When You Apply?
The process is usually straightforward when handled by an approved installer.
1. Property Assessment
The installer checks whether your property and current heating system meet the relevant requirements.
2. System Recommendation
If you qualify, the installer determines which eligible heating system is suitable for your property.
3. Quotation
You receive a quotation showing the expected installation cost and the amount of funding being applied.
4. Grant Application
The approved installer normally manages the grant application process.
5. Installation
Once the necessary requirements are satisfied, the eligible heating system can be installed.
Can Landlords Apply?
Landlords and other eligible property owners may be able to apply for funding, subject to the scheme’s current eligibility requirements and limits. The rules can differ depending on the type and number of properties involved.
Private landlords should therefore confirm the current conditions with an approved installer before arranging work.
Why Check the Grant Before Replacing Your Boiler?
Replacing a heating system can be a significant investment. Checking whether you qualify for government support before committing to an installation may help you understand the potential costs more clearly.
It can also help you compare different heating options based on:
- Initial installation cost
- Available government support
- Expected energy use
- Property requirements
- Long-term heating needs
Because scheme rules and funding arrangements can change, always confirm the current requirements before making a final decision.
Conclusion
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme can reduce the upfront cost of switching from a conventional heating system to an eligible low-carbon alternative. With grants of up to £7,500 historically available for qualifying heat pump installations, it can make a significant difference to the overall project cost. Before arranging an installation, check your current heating system, including how old is my boiler, and speak with an approved installer to confirm your eligibility and the current funding available.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The scheme has historically provided grants of up to £7,500 for eligible heat pump installations. The exact grant available depends on the eligible technology and current scheme rules.
2. Does the Boiler Upgrade Scheme pay for a new boiler?
The scheme is designed to support eligible low-carbon heating systems such as heat pumps rather than simply replacing an existing gas or oil boiler with another conventional boiler.
3. Do I have to pay anything myself?
Usually, yes. The grant contributes towards the eligible installation cost, while the homeowner generally pays any remaining balance.
4. Can an old boiler qualify for the scheme?
The age of the boiler alone does not determine eligibility. Your existing heating system, property and proposed replacement system must meet the applicable requirements.
5. Can I apply for the scheme myself?
An approved installer normally manages the grant application as part of the installation process. They can also assess your property and explain the expected costs.