Grants For Central Heating – Government Grant For Central Heating
If your home does not currently have central heating fitted , you may qualify for a full central heating grant from the government.
This grant will pay for the whole installation of a new central heating system for your property.
The Grant for Central Heating from the government Warm Front Scheme is available to all householders who own their own homes or who rent it from a private landlord.
It is strictly a first time heating scheme only so if you have had central heating fitted in the property previously, you will not qualify.
How To Apply For Free Central Heating
Free Central Heating – 8 Reasons To Apply Now!
Take advantage of this Free grant while funding is still available.
For the still unsure we have compiled 13 reasons for you to mull over.
- Free Central Heating Grant value
The First Time central Heating Grant is worth £4000 to you.
2. If you are eligible you will get a New Boiler , All radiators and fittings , fully fitted for 100 % FREE
That is a saving of over £3000 for a n average backboiler conversion
3. You will get Free 2 years warranty so you cancel expensive £20 a month boiler cover plans.
This will save you over £250 a year alone!
4. You will save money with reduced gas bills by having gas central heating fitted
- Central heating will save you up to £400 off your yearly heating bills when compared to other forms of heating especially electric heating
Put that money towards a holiday!
5. You can get shot of the old and costly to run storage heaters & upgrade to a Top of the Range Worcester Bosch or Vaillant.
Be the envy of your neighbours who will all be jealous!
6. One of our chosen boilers we like to offer is the “Worcester Bosch” which has been voted Which Boiler of the Year for 8 years running.
Everyone loves this super reliable boiler as they enjoy peace of mind and rarely have tenants complaining about heating breakdowns.
7. Grants can end at any time without warning.
The Government never seem to give notice when they are about to pull the plug on funding for Grants.
8. You will improve the home energy efficiency rating of your property so making it more attractive to buyers.
Claim Your Grant now while there is still time. You will be kicking yourself if you miss this one.
How To Apply For Free Central Heating
Free Central Heating- Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the grant you must :
✅ Have an existing mains gas supply
✅ Be in receipt of a benefit
✅ Not have had central heating fitted in the past
✅ Be A Home owner or private tenant
PLUS
Your home must currently have one of the following heating
- Electric room / Storage heaters
- Gas / LPG Oil room heaters
- Gas fire with back boiler
- Coal Fire
- Electric underfloor / ceiling heating
Which Benefits Qualify For A Free 1st Time Central Heating Grant?
- Child Benefit
- Child & Working Tax Credits
- Employment & Support Allowance
- Housing Benefit
- Income Support
- Job Seekers Allowance
- Pension Credit – Guarantee & Saving
- Universal Credit
How Do I Apply For Free Central Heating ?
Applicants wishing to apply for First Time Central Heating Grant should complete a short survey as below.
Social Housing properties, housing association homes and those who live in shared ownership homes will not qualify for a Free Central Heating Grant.
Based on the information you provide, if you are deemed eligible, our installer network call you back to book you in for a short qualifying survey.
How To Apply For Free Central Heating
What Is Included With The First Time Central Heating Grant?
The grant includes :
✅ Installation ✅ New Boiler ✅ All Pipework ✅ Up To 7 Radiators
✅ New Programmer ✅ Wireless Thermostat ✅ Trvs.
Why A Government Grant For Central Heating ?
Free Government Grants For Central Heating are part of the Energy Company Obligation to fund new heating systems for those deemed in fuel poverty to enjoy a brand new gas central heating system fitted. In most cases they cover the full cost of the work.
If your home does not currently have gas central heating fitted and your home is heated by another method, then you may be eligible to apply for this scheme.
Full central heating grants are non-repayable and they will not have to be paid back in the future.
Free Central heating has now been included and over 20 thousand new central heating systems have now been installed for free.
Do I Need To Claim Benefits To Be Eligible?
You may be able to get a central heating grant if you don’t claim benefits under the LA Flex Scheme.
✅ Your household income must be less than £31,000 per annum
✅ your property has an EPC Rating E, F or G
Check Your EPC rating at https://find-energy-certificate.digital.communities.gov.uk/
What Is The Value Of A Central Heating Grant?
The grant is worth up to £4000 depending on the size of your property.
The total costs for installing a new central heating system will usually be between £3000 -£5000 for example
A large, four bedroom house will require more radiators and pipework for example than a small two bed flat – but generally, we estimate that the full central heating installation costs will come to around £3,000 to £5,500 for an average three bedroom home.
How To Apply For Free Central Heating
Are There Free Central Heating Grants For Landlords?
Yes. Landlords are eligible to apply as long as they have a tenant in residence on a qualifying benefit and there is no central heating system in place at the property.
See Our Landlords Grants Page Here
I Have No Benefits – Can I Apply For Free Central Heating
People not receiving benefits may qualify for central heating grants under ECO Flex rules.
This scheme allows Local Authorities to recommend that householders on a low income to qualify for as long as they meet certain criteria.
Each local authority can set its own rules but generally it would apply to households who spend a high proportion of their income to heat their homes.
Please note – not every council has scheme in operation. You will also need to arrange to have a gas meter installed in your home.
Any Central Heating Grants for over 60s ?
Yes There are free central heating grants for over 60s.
Claim your Free central heating grant without delay if you receive Pension Credit with a Guarantee OR Savings Credit
Please double check your benefits paperwork for Pension Credit with Credit before proceeding with Central Heating Grants for Over 60s as it may have been replaced with Universal Credit.
Is The Central Heating Grant Really Free?
Yes for most applicants that meet the criteria. Please see the next headline.
This government Eco 3 scheme is funded by the ‘Big Six’ Utility companies.
Eco 3 has been especially set up to help low income households in England, Scotland and Wales, to access funding to install central heating, free insulation, and other heating upgrades.
The money comes from a levy of around £30 which is placed on every household’s electricity bill.
This money is collected by your energy supplier and fed into an ECO fund.
Can I Get A Grant For New Radiators?
There are no grants currently available to replace old radiators (as part of a central heating system) and you will be responsible for their replacement even if they have been fitted as part of a grant in the past.
Electric Storage heaters however do have grants currently available at the moment which are 100% fully funded.
How To Apply For Free Central Heating
Can I Get A Grant For Free Central Heating Replacement?
No. We are getting a lot of applicants for free central heating grants where the home has already got central heating fitted !
This scheme is for FIRST TIME CENTRAL HEATING only but people do not read the full criteria for the Central Heating Grant and still apply.
This results in many applications being forwarded straight to the dustbin unfortunately.
Please , if you have a boiler and radiators currently fitted in your home – YOU ARE NOT ELIGIBLE!
Homes with a boiler already fitted should apply for the BOILER GRANT SCHEME
Can Shared Ownership Get a Free Central Heating Grant?
Unfortunately, if you rent your home from your local council or housing association, or you live in a shared ownership home you will not qualify for a free gas central heating grant.
You or someone living with you must receive one of the qualifying State Benefits, Tax Credits or Other Allowances below OR qualify under ECO Flex Rules
Are Housing Association Tenants Eligible for Central Heating ?
Yes. If you live in a Housing Association you might be eligible for a grant for first time central heating.
✅ Your Energy Performance Certificate rating of E, F or G is needed
✅ permission from your HA
Can You Get a Grant For Electric Central Heating?
Electric central heating is a very expensive way to heat your home and the grants are currently only available for gas central heating
We do not recommend fitting your home with an electricity-powered boiler, or fitting smart electric radiators as your power bills will be astronomical.
You can expect to easily increase your bills by over 40% by using electric as your main heating.
Are Central Heating Grants Available In Wales & Scotland ?
Yes -The whole of the UK has government funding for this fantastic first time central heating grant.
If you have no central heating fitted , you should apply now while funding is available.
How To Apply For Free Central Heating
Can I Apply If I Have No Gas Supply?
If you do not currently have a gas supply (but there is gas in the area / street) No -you need to be on the gas grid and have had a gas meter fitted before April 2022.
Check if your property has a gas supply / gas meter visit
Find My Supplier website at https://findmysupplier.energy/
No Gas In Your Area- What Heating Is Available?
If a gas supply is not available in your area, (subject to funding) first time central heating grants may fund one of the following:
- Biomass Boiler
- LPG Boiler
- Air Source Heat Pump
- Ground Source Heat Pump
- Electric Boiler
In most cases any of the above will require a contribution from the applicant
How Much For A Central Heating Installation?
The cost of a new central heating system often falls between £3,000 and £5,000.
This will depend on how much work is involved and whether it is a new install or if old heating has to be removed etc.
This price will get you a full central heating system that includes a boiler, radiators, heating controls and pipework.
Most people go for a combi boiler for ease of use and to keep the price down.
You can check prices for Central Heating at MR CENTRAL HEATING
How To Apply For Free Central Heating
Are There Grants for Central Heating Boilers?
Yes We are taking applications for backboilers and non condensing boilers over 1 7 years old which are exchanged for free under Eco 4.
Landlords and private tenants no longer qualify for boiler grants because it is the landlord’s responsibility to pay for these improvements.
Are Central Heating Grants Available In Wales & Scotland ?
Yes -The whole of the UK has government funding for this fantastic first time central heating grant.
If you have no central heating fitted , you should apply now while funding is available.
When Is The Central Heating Scheme Ending?
The funding has been granted until 2026 but we feel the grant will run out before then.
Over 100 thousand heating systems have been fitted now and we anticipate that there will be a new focus towards renewable energy.
If you want to apply for central heating you should do it sooner than later.
Can I Apply If I Have No Gas Supply?
If you do not currently have a gas supply (but there is gas in the area / street)
The grant may fully fund a new gas supply connection and we will arrange this as part of the application.
There may be a delay of up to 8 weeks while this is fitted.
No Gas In Your Area- What Heating Is Available?
If a gas supply is not available in your area, (subject to funding) first time central heating grants may fund one of the following:
- Biomass Boiler
- LPG Boiler
- Air Source Heat Pump
- Ground Source Heat Pump
- Electric Boiler
In most cases any of the above will require a contribution from the applicant.
How To Apply For Free Central Heating
What Happens Once I’ve Applied For My Free Central Heating Grant?
We will check your application and if we feel you are eligible, we will move you to the next stage which will be forwarding your application to a government approved installer who has access to funding.
They will perform a data match and if you pass, they will contact you to book in for a survey.
Following a successful survey, you will be given an install date. From start to finsih , it usually takes up to 4 weeks. If no gas supply / meter is available, then this time will increase.
Government Grants For Central Heating – Is This A Scam?
NO IT IS NOT!
Free Central Heating is now available to the whole of the UK to all homes that currently do not have a gas central heating system fitted in their property.
This new grant is valued at over £4000 and has proved to be one of the most sought after grants that are available on the Government Funded Affordable Warmth Scheme.
The Central heating grant will be paid directly to the installer once your new central heating system has been installed.
What Current Heating Types Are Accepted For The Grant ?
Your home must be fitted with one of the following heating systems:
- Electric room heaters / Electric storage heaters
- Gas / Oil room heaters
- Gas fire only
- Mains gas warm air system
- Coal fire with back boiler
- Electric underfloor / ceiling heating
- Bottled LPG heating
- Solid fuel room heaters
- Wood/biomass room heating
- No Heating At All
Why Apply For A Grant ?
✅ There Is No Catch – We Guarantee it !
✅ If Your Application Is Accepted Your Grant Is 100% FREE
✅ You Will Reduce Your Energy Bills By Up To £300 Per Year
✅ You Will Add Lots Of Value To Your Home
✅ The Scheme Has Limited Funding
How To Apply For Free Central Heating
How Do I Apply For A Grant For Central Heating ?
Applicants wishing to apply for First Time Central Heating Grant should complete a short survey as below.
Social Housing properties, housing association homes and those who live in shared ownership homes will not qualify for a Free Central Heating Grant.
Based on the information you provide, if you are deemed eligible, our installer network call you back to book you in for a short qualifying survey.
Are There Grants For Heat Pump Central Heating ?
There currently are no grants for heat pump central heating. This is due to the high cost involved in which full heat pump system would probably cost in excess of £11000.
If you are looking for a heat pump , you can exchange your boiler for a heat pump very cheaply with the current grant of £5000 from the government.
You do not need to be on a benefit to qualify.
How To Apply For Free Central Heating
What Is The Value Of A Central Heating Grant?
The grant is worth up to £4000 depending on the size of your property.
The total costs for installing a new central heating system will usually be between £3000 -£5000 for example
A large, four bedroom house will require more radiators and pipework for example than a small two bed flat – but generally, we estimate that the full central heating installation costs will come to around £3,000 to £5,500 for an average three bedroom home.
How Much Is A New Boiler ?
Installing a traditional heating boiler connected to a cylinder will usually cost around £1,700 to £1,900 for the boiler and the install, and slightly more for a combi boiler – up to £2,000.
For a full breakdown of boiler installation costs, take a look at our dedicated boiler installation costs guide
The overall cost of the boiler may come down if included as part of a full central heating refit.
You may be entitled to a grant for a new boiler.
Only NON CONDENSING BOILERS AND BACK BOILERS NOW ACCEPTED
Are There Free Central Heating Grants For Landlords?
Yes. Landlords are eligible to apply as long as they have a tenant in residence on a qualifying benefit and there is no central heating system in place at the property.
Are There Central Heating Grants For Non Benefit People?
If you do not receive any of the qualifying benefits you may qualify for first time central heating grant under the Eco Flex or LAD schemes.
These are schemes where local councils can recommend that you receive a central heating grant if you satisfy their rules regarding fuel poverty.
You would qualify if you have to spend more than 10% of your income to heat your home. Each council set their own rules and you should check your council’s statement of intent.
You will also need to arrange to have a gas meter installed in your home.
Any Central Heating Grants for over 60s ?
Yes There are free central heating grants for over 60s.
Claim your Free central heating grant without delay if you receive Pension Credit with a Guarantee OR Savings Credit
Please double check your benefits paperwork for Pension Credit with Credit before proceeding with Central Heating Grants for Over 60s as it may have been replaced with Universal Credit.
Is The Central Heating Grant Really Free?
Yes for most applicants that meet the criteria. Please see the next headline.
This government Eco 3 scheme is funded by the ‘Big Six’ Utility companies.
Eco 3 has been especially set up to help low income households in England, Scotland and Wales, to access funding to install central heating, free insulation, and other heating upgrades.
The money comes from a levy of around £30 which is placed on every household’s electricity bill.
This money is collected by your energy supplier and fed into an ECO fund.
Can I Get A Grant For New Radiators?
There are no grants currently available to replace old radiators (as part of a central heating system) and you will be responsible for their replacement even if they have been fitted as part of a grant in the past.
Electric Storage heaters however do have grants currently available at the moment which are 100% fully funded.
Who Is Funding The Grants For Free Central Heating Scheme?
The central heating grants scheme is part of the Affordable Warmth Scheme section of the Government’s ECO Scheme.
This is funded by a small levy on the electricity bills of every household in England, Scotland and Wales.
Learn more about the Affordable Warmth Scheme HERE.
When Does The Grant For Free Central Heating End?
Officially The Free Central Heating Scheme is expected to run until 31st March 2026.
However you should apply without delay or you may miss out.
What Is Included In The Free Grant?
✅ A rated central heating boiler
✅ all associated pipework
✅ central heating radiators
✅ room thermostat.
✅ programmer
This grant is worth £4000 !
I Have Old Central Heating – Can I Apply For The Grant?
NO. The central heating grants scheme is to install first time central heating systems only i.e no previous heating fitted.
If your home has had central heating fitted in the past but it has been removed, you will not qualify.
WHAT TYPES OF HEATING SYSTEM ARE INSTALLED
First Time Central Heating can be installed with both a Gas Boiler or Air Source Heat Pump
For mains gas areas you will have a gas boiler fitted
For Off gas areas you could still qualify for a free central heating system which has an Air Source Heat Pump & Cylinder
How To Apply For Free Central Heating
What Is An Air Source Heat Pump Central heating ?
This runs on electricity and the system installed would be radiators, an ASHP Unit and a cylinder,
The air source heat pump absorbs heat from the outside air and converts this into a liquid refrigerant at a low temperature.
The pump compresses the liquid to increase its temperature and then condenses back into a liquid to release its stored heat.
The heat is sent to your radiators or underfloor heating.
What Is The Minimum Energy Requirement.
All central heating grants are required to meet Ofgem’s Minimum Energy Requirement.
This means that following the installation of any Energy Saving Measures, the Energy Rating of the property must increase in accordance with the following rules.
- Properties with A current EPC rating of F or G ( pre install) must increase the EPC rating to D
- Properties with A current EPC rating of D E ( pre install) must increase the EPC rating to a C
This will mean that insulation is fitted in applications.
The End EPC resulat will determine how much the installer can claim.
How Much Is A New Boiler ?
Installing a traditional heating boiler connected to a cylinder will usually cost around £1,700 to £1,900 for the boiler and the install, and slightly more for a combi boiler – up to £2,000.
For a full breakdown of boiler installation costs, take a look at our dedicated boiler installation costs guide
The overall cost of the boiler may come down if included as part of a full central heating refit.
You may be entitled to a grant for a new boiler.
Only NON CONDENSING BOILERS AND BACK BOILERS NOW ACCEPTED
Radiator Installation Costs
The total price of radiators can vary depending on the style you buy, with typical prices ranging from around £50 to £150 each.
Screwfix and Toolstation do some very good deals on replacement radiators and we always recommend you purchase from there to keep costs down.
If you were replacing a single radiator individually you would also need to calculate in a larger cost for the installation, which would also include bleeding the system.
– Heating engineers will typically charge around £300 a day for a two-man team, but when doing a full system installation, the job will usually be priced as a single cost rather than worked out on a day rate or by the hour.
When doing an entire installation, with several new radiators, it can bring the price down – we would expect the price for new radiators for a three bedroom home to be around £1,000 to £1,200.
Prices for getting new central heating
Installing a new central heating system is no easy feat.
You’ll have to pull out or install quite a bit of pipes, water tanks, controls, and other heating components. All this comes with a hefty price tag so it’s understandable to be wary of the costs of such an operation.
Before you go out and inquire about purchasing and installing new central heating, take some time to carefully examine the prices.
You’ll be better informed on the costs and less likely to be taken advantage of by a potentially deceitful dealer.
Central heating system (CHS) installation and running costs
| Installation | Average Cost | Cost Details |
|---|---|---|
| CHS for a bungalow | £2,365 – £3,000 | – Supply and installation of gas boiler, radiators, and piping network |
| CHS for 3-bedroom house | £3,230 – £4,350 | – Installation of new CHS including boiler, radiators, controls, and pipework |
| Replacement boiler | £1,800 – £2,600 | – Price depends on type of boiler and location |
| CHS running cost | £800 – £1,850 | – Price depends on fuel type |
Narrow down your options and keep costs low
Getting a new central heating system might seem easy right? Just choose the models you like and let the heating engineer get to work.
Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as that. There are so many factors to consider before you decide on a heating system, and even more when you select an installer.
Understanding your new central heating system
If you’ve never paid much attention to your central heating, then shopping around for a new system is the perfect chance to study up!
I know that it’s not the most exciting of topics, but you’ll be glad you did a bit of research before you make your purchase.
By having a general idea of how central heating works, you’ll be better able to identify the right system for your situation.
This means a better decision, saving plenty of headaches and money along the way.
How central heating keeps you warm
Your system consists of these main parts: boiler, pipes, radiators, water storage tanks, and heating controls. The exact components needed will depend on the type of system you choose.
The boiler takes water provided by your mains pipe and heats it. Burning gas or oil is the most common way to power the boiler. The heated water will either be pumped to a hot water storage vessel or directly to a water tap—this depends on whether it is a combi boiler or not.
The boiler also transports the water to radiators located throughout your home. The hot water travels through the radiators to release its heat energy, warming up the room. Once the heat transfer is completed, the now cold water circles back to your boiler for reheating once again.
What affects the cost for new central heating?
If you decide to install a new central heating system for your home, you might be surprised about the number of factors that help determine your final bill. Since your system should match the characteristics of your home, it’ll be a bespoke heating solution—the price will reflect this.
There are so many different brands and models available, meaning that the prices will vary significantly. Also, where you source the central heating parts from will play a role. The most common scenario is that your central heating installer will arrange for these parts, obtaining them from their suppliers.
This is convenient for you but usually entails higher prices.
A trustworthy company will provide a breakdown of their costs, detailing the prices for different parts. Take advantage of this and get multiple heating installation quotes to find the best deal.
Larger heating companies tend to give quotes as a single number based on the completion of the job. This includes the supply, installation, and labour costs. Smaller companies usually charge on an hourly rate. Their rate averages at around £20 to £40 an hour.
How To Apply For Free Central Heating
Central Heating Costs
Finally, new central heating costs will vary depending on the size of your home, your heating demand, and the type of system you choose. Households that require a high level of heating need a higher capacity boiler, as well as more radiators and piping, driving up costs.
Certain boiler types, such as a conventional or system boiler, need expansion vessels and water storage tanks. This increases the supply and installation costs.
As you can see, all of these factors influence each other, making the whole process of pricing your new central heating system even more complicated. Luckily, you don’t have to work through this complexity on your own.
For a new central heating installation, your best bet is to contact several companies in your area and to gather as much information as possible.
You’ll see the average price you can expect and ask any questions on your mind. As is the case in so many things in life, proper preparation is pivotal!
Is it time to get new central heating?
This is a question that you might be wondering about. Actually, there are many possible reasons why it might be time to switch to a new central heating system.
- Age: Your entire system might be a few years old now and is in need of a revamp. Usually, you should replace your boiler after 10 to 15 years, and if the rest of your heating is reaching the end of their lifespan, it’s time to replace.
- High repair cost: Occasionally, the price to fix a problem with your heating is much higher than it is to replace the whole system altogether. If this type of recommendation is coming from your heating engineer, you should consider installing a new system.
- Low efficiency: Perhaps you have noticed that you are spending way too much on heating. This could be a result of an inefficient heating system. Upgrade to a modern, more efficient system to unlock savings for your energy bill.
Radiator Installation Costs
The total price of radiators can vary depending on the style you buy, with typical prices ranging from around £50 to £150 each.
Screwfix and Toolstation do some very good deals on replacement radiators and we always recommend you purchase from there to keep costs down.
If you were replacing a single radiator individually you would also need to calculate in a larger cost for the installation, which would also include bleeding the system.
– Heating engineers will typically charge around £300 a day for a two-man team, but when doing a full system installation, the job will usually be priced as a single cost rather than worked out on a day rate or by the hour.
When doing an entire installation, with several new radiators, it can bring the price down – we would expect the price for new radiators for a three bedroom home to be around £1,000 to £1,200.
Useful Resources & Other Grants Available For OAPs
More Useful Resources & Other Grants
