Many UK homeowners struggle with high energy bills and inefficient heating. The good news is that you may be eligible for a free boiler under the government's ECO4 scheme. This initiative helps low-income households upgrade to energy-efficient boilers without any upfront costs.
If your boiler is old, faulty, or expensive to run, replacing it with a modern system could save you hundreds of pounds per year. But how do you check if you qualify and apply for a free boiler grant?
This guide explains everything you need to know, from eligibility criteria to the application process.
What is the ECO4 Scheme?
The ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation) scheme is a UK government initiative aimed at improving home energy efficiency. It requires large energy companies to help low-income households reduce energy costs. One of the key benefits of this scheme is providing free or heavily subsidized boilers to eligible homeowners.
This scheme runs from April 2022 to March 2026 and replaces the previous ECO3 scheme. It focuses on helping vulnerable households switch to energy-efficient heating systems, including gas, electric, and renewable boilers.
Who Can Get a Free Boiler?
Not everyone qualifies for a free boiler grant under ECO4. The government has set strict eligibility criteria to ensure help reaches those who need it most.
To qualify, you must:
Be a homeowner or a private tenant (with your landlord’s permission)
Have an old or inefficient boiler (typically over 10 years old)
Receive certain government benefits
The scheme prioritizes low-income households, so you must be receiving at least one of these benefits:
Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Income Support
Universal Credit
Pension Credit (Guarantee or Savings Credit)
Child Tax Credit
Working Tax Credit
Housing Benefit
Even if you don’t receive benefits, you may still qualify under Local Authority Flexible Eligibility (LA Flex). This depends on your income, household size, and energy efficiency rating.
What Type of Boilers Are Available Under the Scheme?
The scheme covers different types of energy-efficient boilers, including:
Gas Boilers - For homes connected to the gas grid
Electric Boilers - For homes without gas or oil heating
Renewable Boilers - Air source or ground source heat pumps
The type of boiler you receive depends on your home’s heating system, location, and energy efficiency needs. The goal is to reduce carbon emissions and make homes warmer at a lower cost.
How to Apply for a Free Boiler Grant
The application process is simple, but you need to follow the right steps to avoid delays. Here’s how to apply for a free boiler under ECO4.
1. Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, confirm that you meet the scheme’s eligibility criteria. You can do this by:
Visiting the official UK government website
Contacting an ECO4-approved boiler installer
Using an online eligibility checker
If you receive qualifying benefits or meet the local authority criteria, you may proceed with the application.
2. Find an ECO4-Approved Installer
Only registered installers can fit boilers under the ECO4 scheme. These companies are approved by Ofgem, the UK’s energy regulator.
Search for certified installers in your area and request a free home assessment. Reputable companies will:
Check your current boiler’s condition
Inspect your home’s insulation and heating system
Confirm your ECO4 eligibility
3. Home Energy Assessment
Once you choose an installer, they will arrange a home energy assessment. This step is crucial because it determines whether a new boiler will significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency.
The surveyor will:
Check your boiler age, type, and efficiency
Assess your home insulation (loft, cavity walls, etc.)
Measure your carbon footprint and energy use
If you pass the assessment, the installer will move forward with the process.
4. Submit Your Application
After the assessment, the installer submits your grant application to the scheme administrators. This step involves providing:
Proof of benefits or income (if applicable)
Home ownership or tenancy agreement
EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) details
The approval process takes a few weeks, depending on demand.
5. Boiler Installation
Once approved, the installer will schedule a free boiler installation. The process typically takes one day and includes:
Removing your old boiler
Installing the new energy-efficient boiler
Upgrading your heating controls (if necessary)
Safety checks and testing
After installation, you’ll receive a warranty for maintenance and repairs.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Free Boiler?
The entire process can take 4-8 weeks from application to installation. However, this depends on:
Demand – High application volumes may slow processing
Assessment results – Homes needing additional insulation may take longer
Installer availability – Some companies have longer wait times
To avoid delays, apply as soon as possible and have all required documents ready.
What Are the Benefits of Getting a Free Boiler?
Upgrading to a new boiler through the ECO4 scheme offers multiple benefits:
Lower energy bills – Modern boilers use less fuel, saving up to £300 per year
Improved home comfort – Better heating efficiency means warmer winters
Reduced carbon footprint – Energy-efficient boilers cut CO₂ emissions
No upfront costs – The scheme covers the cost, so you don’t pay anything
Increased property value – A new boiler can boost your home’s market appeal
By replacing an inefficient boiler, you’ll enjoy a more cost-effective heating system for years to come.
What If You Don’t Qualify?
If you don’t meet the ECO4 requirements, other government schemes may help:
LA Flex Scheme - Local authorities provide flexible grants based on income and household conditions
Boiler Upgrade Scheme - Offers grants for heat pumps and low-carbon heating systems
Winter Fuel Payment - Provides financial aid for heating costs if you’re over 66 years old
Some energy suppliers also offer discounted boiler installations through their own programs.
Final Thoughts
The ECO4 scheme is a fantastic opportunity for low-income households to get a free boiler and reduce energy bills. If you’re eligible, applying is simple and can result in huge savings on heating costs. For those using an oil boiler, specific support is available under the scheme to help upgrade to a more efficient system.
Check if you qualify, find an approved installer, and start your application today. A warmer, more energy-efficient home could be just a few weeks away.
Would you like help finding a trusted ECO4 installer? Start your search now and take the first step toward a free boiler upgrade.
