Heating your home is not cheap. And if your boiler is damaged or old, it will be costing you money. But the best part is: you might be able to get a brand new boiler installed with the free boiler grant under the ECO4 scheme.
The majority of people in the UK do not realise that they might be eligible for this scheme. That’s why it is worth finding out. You could be eligible for a new, energy-saving boiler which will heat your home more efficiently and cut your gas costs.
In this guide, we will discuss why it is worth checking if you qualify for a free boiler—and how it can save you money, time, and stress.
Let us start.
What Is the Free Boiler Scheme?
The Free Boiler Scheme is under the UK Government’s ECO4 Scheme. The term ECO stands for Energy Company Obligation. It is a program for improving the energy efficiency of low-income households.
Replacing inefficient old or broken-down boilers is one of the most significant parts of the plan. The government (through the large energy companies) pays for your new boiler if you are eligible. You don’t have to pay anything.
The aim is to help low-income households:
- Stay warm in winter
- Use less energy
- Pay less for heating bills
- Reduce carbon emissions
Why Is It So Important to Check?
Most people are unaware of the ECO4 scheme. Others believe that they will be ineligible and don’t bother to check.
However, the rules have changed with ECO4. More individuals can claim it—now including those in receipt of certain benefits, pensioners, and low-income families.
Checking is quick, easy, and 100% free. You have nothing to lose. But if you do qualify, you could gain a lot.
Here is why it is worth checking:
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You Could Save Hundreds of Pounds Each Year
Older boilers burn more gas. That costs you more in energy. A new A-rated boiler is much more efficient. It will turn more of the fuel into heat. That will make you use less gas to warm your house. The average household saves between £300 and £500 in a year in gas bills after receiving a free boiler. It is money you can use for food, travel, or savings.
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It Doesn’t Cost You a Penny
If you qualify, the whole procedure is free. The energy companies cover it under government rules.
You can get these things for free:
- The boiler itself
- The installation
- The engineer’s hours
- The removal of your old boiler
There can be extra work, including new pipework or thermostats. Occasionally, there can be a bit of extra cost—but you’ll always be told in advance. They don’t give anything at all.
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The Process is Quick and Simple
Most individuals think getting a new boiler is stressful. The procedure is easy, though, under the free boiler scheme. Here is how it usually goes
Step 1: Fill in a brief online application
This is a qualification check. It will only take you 2–3 minutes.
Step 2: A surveyor will visit your home
They will inspect your boiler, insulation, and energy consumption. It is free.
Step 3: Your application is approved
If it is sorted, your free boiler is booked in.
Step 4: Installing the new boiler
Your boiler is installed by a qualified engineer. It usually takes 1 to 2 days.
In most cases, the whole procedure—from the form to the fitting—only takes between 1 to 3 weeks.
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Your Home Will be Warmer and More Secure
Not only are old boilers more expensive, but also inefficient. They take longer to get your house warmed up and may leave rooms cold.
Some of the older boilers are unsafe. They may leak carbon monoxide or gas if damaged.
A new boiler will:
- Heating your home faster
- Keep the temperature even
- Use less fuel
- Be much safer to use
Which translates into more comfort and peace of mind—particularly during the winter.
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More People Qualify Than You Think
You might think: “This isn’t for me.” But the rules in ECO4 have changed. More people qualify.
You may be eligible if:
- You’re on a low income (under £31,000 a year)
- You get certain benefits
- You’re a pensioner
- You have children at your residence
- You suffer from a chronic disease made worse by a cold
- Your property is graded with a low Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Even if you’re not eligible for benefits, there are certain areas with assistance under the LA Flex scheme, which allows councils to support more families.
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You Can Help the Planet Too
Modern boilers are over 90% efficient. That is, they produce less pollution and are friendlier to the environment. So by having a boiler for free, you’re not just helping yourself—you’re helping the environment as well.
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Avoid an Unexpected Big Bill
Boilers do not last forever. Your boiler can fail at any time if it is older than 10-15 years. Repairs may cost between £100 and £500. Replacement will be between £2,000 and £4,000. By discovering whether you qualify today, you avoid the shock of a future high bill. Your heating is secure for the long term with peace of mind.
Who Is the Free Boiler Scheme For?
You can qualify if:
- You reside in your property or a private rental
- Your boiler is damaged or outdated (usually over 15 years old)
- You get one or more of the following benefits:
- Pension credit
- Income support
- Universal Credit
- Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit
Even if you’re not eligible for benefits, get in touch with your local council or a recommended fitter. There are still eligible households under LA Flex.
How to Check if You Qualify for the Free Boiler
It’s easy to check. You can just go to a reputable energy grant website or an ECO4 boiler installation business. Search for a “Check Eligibility” form. It will only take a few minutes to fill in.
You’ll require:
- Your postcode
- Some facts about your house
- What benefits (if any) do you receive
That’s it. You’ll get an answer in no time. And it’s free to check.
Don’t Miss Out — Check Today
The free oil boiler grant is government-backed, and there is no catch. You’ll be given a brand new, efficient boiler which will cost you less money and keep your home warm. So why wouldn’t you check?
It takes just a few minutes, and it could alter your life. Lower bills, less stress, and a warmer home—£0. Don’t wait until your boiler breaks down. Check if you qualify today!
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