How the Free Boiler Scheme Can Help You Save on Energy Bills in 2025
We all know that sometimes keeping your home warm can cost you more than you have to spare. It is keeping situations like these in mind that the government’s free boiler scheme was established. This scheme might just be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. If you’re on a low income or benefits, the ECO4 scheme could help you get a brand-new, energy-efficient boiler installed, without paying a penny.
But it’s not just about saving money. Upgrading your boiler means lower energy bills, a warmer home, and fewer carbon emissions. Best of all? You may already be eligible.
If you are not sure where to start? You can check your eligibility for the ECO4 scheme now.—>
What Is the Free Boiler Scheme under the ECO4 Scheme?
The free boiler scheme is part of the ECO4 scheme, which stands for Energy Company Obligation. This scheme is backed by the UK government. It helps low-income households and those in fuel poverty to upgrade their heating systems.
.Under the ECO4 scheme, major energy suppliers have a responsibility to invest in energy-efficient upgrades for low-income households, making a significant difference in the lives of those who need it most..These improvements include free boiler replacements, insulation, and even heat pumps in some cases.
What is the goal?
The goal is to reduce energy bills and support the UK’s net-zero carbon targets.
The two main programmes you need to know about are:
1. ECO4 Scheme: This scheme is funded mostly by energy firms. And their target is to facilitate low-income homes, offering free boiler replacements. Including the free boiler this scheme also provides insulation, and heat pumps. Over £4 billion is up for grabs until March 2026.
2. Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS): Offers up to £7,500 for switching to eco-friendly heat pumps or biomass boilers.
Internal link: Want to understand how your home is assessed?
Read our guide to EPC ratings. Add the EPC guide Infographic here within the EPC blog
Free Heating Grants UK
This is a broad term that covers all types of financial help available through government schemes to improve your home’s heating. It can include:
- Boiler upgrades
- Insulation (loft, cavity wall, underfloor)
- Smart heating controls
- Air source heat pumps (for homes off the gas grid)
Think of it as the umbrella term for all the support you could get to make your home warmer and more energy-efficient, especially under schemes like ECO4.
Free Boiler Installation
This is one specific type of heating upgrade included under the wider free heating grants.
It means:
- Replacing your old, broken, or inefficient boiler
- Getting a new A-rated boiler
- Installed at no cost to you, if you qualify
It’s often the most popular part of the grant because it makes a big difference to energy bills and home comfort.
In simple words, it means that:
- Free heating grants = The whole toolbox
- Free boiler installation = Just one tool in it
Who’s Eligible for the ECO4 Scheme?
Eligibility for the free boiler scheme is based on: See the official guidance on ECO4 eligibility on the official government website, UK.
- Income,
- property type, and
- Your current energy efficiency.
To qualify, you usually need to:
- Be a homeowner or private tenant (landlord permission required)
- Have an existing boiler that’s broken or inefficient
- Live in a property with a poor EPC rating (typically D, E, F, or G)
- Receive a qualifying government benefit like:
- Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Universal Credit
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Don’t worry if you’re unsure, we’ll help you figure it out.
What’s Included in a Free Boiler Replacement?
If you qualify, here’s what you can expect:
A brand-new A-rated condensing boiler
Installation by certified Gas Safe engineers
Free thermostats or heating controls if needed
A full system check and clean
And yes… It’s truly free. No hidden charges. No confusing forms.
Heatcore handles everything! Contact us now to get expert guidance and a free EPC check.
How EPC Ratings Are Determined Under ECO4
Your EPC rating is short for Energy Performance Certificate. It plays a big role in your eligibility for a free boiler.
To calculate your EPC, a government-approved assessor visits your home to evaluate it. They inspect various elements like insulation, boiler efficiency, double glazing, and lighting. This data is then entered into the official SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) software.
The result is a grade from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Homes rated D or lower are typically eligible for ECO4 improvements.
If you don’t have a recent EPC, don’t worry! Heatcore can arrange a free EPC survey for you.
Internal Link to Related Blog: Want to understand how energy efficiency affects your eligibility? Read our full EPC Rating Guide.
What Paperwork Will You Need to Apply?
Applying is simpler than you might think. Follow these simple steps:
- Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or tenancy agreement)
- Proof of qualifying benefits
- Your EPC certificate (we can help you get one)
- Landlord’s permission if you’re a private tenant
You won’t need to do this alone. If you need help, reach out to our team, which will handle the whole process and help you every step of the way.
What Else Does the ECO4 Scheme Cover?
The scheme isn’t just about boilers. You might also qualify for other free heating grants in the UK, such as:
- Cavity wall insulation
- Loft or underfloor insulation
- Smart heating controls
- Air source heat pumps (for homes off the gas grid)
All of these schemes are aimed at making your life easier and your home warmer. They upgrade your homes, increasing their property value. At the same time, these also help the planet by reducing carbon emissions. We all want to stay warm, but not at the cost of destroying the planet. Let’s be gentle with the planet while being warm in our homes.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme: What’s New in 2025?
Let’s wrap up and check out all the upgrades in the free boiler scheme UK 2025
- More funding available: The government has bumped the budget up to £295 million, so more homes can benefit.
- Bigger grants: You can now get up to £7,500 for installing air or ground source heat pumps, and £5,000 for a biomass boiler.
- Easier installation: Planning rules have been relaxed, which means getting a heat pump fitted is now much simpler.
- Mix and match tech: The scheme now supports multi-tech systems, like pairing a heat pump with solar panels or a heat battery.
- Warm and Fuzzy Campaign: The government has launched a campaign called ‘Warm and Fuzzy’.This is to help more people learn about the benefits of switching to low-carbon heating.
- Why are we doing this: It’s more than just about providing affordable options to low-income households. It’s about switching to greener heating options and making them accessible for UK households.
Why You Should Apply Now (Before It’s Too Late)
ECO4 funding is limited, which means that if you don’t apply now, you might not get a shot at it. Installers are already seeing high demand, especially as winter approaches. Waiting too long might mean missing out altogether.
Besides, every month you delay could mean higher energy bills and more stress.
Check your eligibility today, or contact the Heatcore team to find out more.
