Did you know that there’s a grant that provides free boiler replacement for pensioners in the UK?
Are you a pensioner? Do you receive Pension Credit? If the answer is yes, and you’re a homeowner or live in private rented accommodation, then there's a good chance you may be entitled to a free boiler as part of a Government funded energy efficiency drive currently sweeping the country, the Energy Company Obligation Scheme
If you qualify, you and your home will soon benefit from a boiler replacement, designed to lower your heating bills, and keep your house warm and comfortable.
Based on our extensive market research, the typical cost to install a new gas boiler will likely fall between £3,500 to £7,450. If your existing boiler is old and inefficient, a new boiler could save you up to £630 off your energy bills every year (detached homes in England, Scotland and Wales, Energy Savings Trust).
As long as you and your boiler meet the necessary criteria you'll receive a brand new A rated condensing boiler fitted by an approved Gas Safe Registered engineer and, providing it's a straightforward swap, it won't cost you a penny. There’s really no catch.
With that being said, the eligibility criteria can be strict. That’s why we’ve put together this guide that will outline all the requirements you should meet if you are to benefit from the scheme.
Although there are free boiler grants for pensioners as part of the scheme, those not on benefits are not available under this scheme. For those unable to apply for a grant, but still in need of a boiler replacement, look no further than Boiler Guide.
Looking for suitable installer companies and asking them for a quote requires significant time and effort. It’s also important that you consider multiple companies in order to be able to compare quotes and find a good price.
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Government boiler grants for pensioners are available through the Energy Company Obligation Scheme. The fourth installment of the scheme, ECO4, has been running from 1 April 2022 and it will continue until 31 March 2026. The scheme obligates some of the country's biggest energy suppliers, including the ‘Big Six’, to make it their mission to provide free insulation measures and boiler upgrades to the most vulnerable households in the UK.
As one of society's most vulnerable groups, many pensioners live with outdated central heating systems which drive up their bills and are insufficient at providing heating and comfort.
Free boiler replacement for pensioners are available to homeowners, or private renters, to which either of the follow applies:
On Pension Credit (income related benefit made up of Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit)
Aged 60 plus and be in receipt of Working Tax Credit
Specifically, it should be at least eight years old. Boilers must be also broken or old and inefficient to qualify for the scheme.
Free replacement boiler for pensioners application process
So, if you’re a homeowner or private renter who receives any one of the means-tested benefits listed above, and has an outdated, ineffective boiler, then you’re more than likely entitled to a free boiler replacement under ECO4.
To confirm this, and to get the process started, there are a couple of small steps you should take as part of the application process.
How do you apply for a free boiler as a pensioner?
1. Confirm your eligibility
Visit the ECO4 Eligibility page on the ECO4 website. There you’ll find a form that you can fill out. It will ask you questions about your location, the conditions of your home's insulation and heating system, and any government benefits you currently are entitled to.
2. Home survey
An ECO4 specialist surveyor will then pay you a home visit to investigate issues in your home's overall energy efficiency and to identify exactly what measures can be carried out. According to their website, these visits will take no longer than 15 minutes and are designed to be minimally intrusive.
What happens after applying?
Once you have applied, and the appropriate measures have been decided, then it’s time to carry out the necessary upgrades to your home. If you’re eligible for a new boiler, then the installation works will be arranged and carried out on your behalf by a qualified installer. Visit the ECO4 website to get your application started today.
For those who are not eligible, but are still in need of a boiler replacement, then there’s still a solution that can guarantee a fast, easy installation process. While paying for a boiler replacement in full can be a sizeable investment, our solution will also help you save money and hopefully land the best deal possible.
The solution? our free quote service. Simply fill in a few details using our short form, and we will connect you with up to 3 qualified installers based in your region. You’ll then receive their tailored installation quotes which you can easily compare to find the best deal. With locally based companies, you’ll also benefit from the best local rates, and enjoy a faster and more personalised service.
Save yourself the countless hours and unnecessary stress that’s usually involved in securing a boiler replacement and get your free, no-obligation quotes from Boiler Guide today.
Can I get help with a new boiler if I am not on benefits?
No, those eligible for free boiler replacements under government backed schemes, such as the Energy Company Obligation Scheme, must be the recipient of any one of a long list of means-tested benefits.
Can pensioners get a grant for a new boiler?
Yes, free boiler replacements for pensioners are available in the UK for homeowners or those living in privately rented accommodation with an ineffective boiler and who receive certain benefits (On Pension Credit, Working Tax Credit).
How can I apply for the free boiler scheme for pensioners?
New boilers for pensioners can be applied for on the ECO4 website. You simply fill out a form that asks about your location, any benefits your recieve, and the conditions of your existing heating system and home insulation. If you’re eligible, you’ll then be paid a visit by a surveyor who can identify the areas in your home that reuqire an energy efficiency upgrade.
About the author
Boiler Guide Team
Boiler Guide has been home to a host of heating experts who have helped millions of UK homeowners searching for advice and guidance. If you’ve got heating questions, we’ll have the answers.
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