Although many are keen to upgrade their old boiler, the price of a heat pump installation can often be daunting. However, the government has an active grant scheme that is helping to significantly reduce the cost of making the switch.
We know that information surrounding government schemes can be convoluted and difficult to understand, so we’re here to address the most common FAQs about the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
What is the boiler upgrade scheme?
The government has implemented the boiler upgrade scheme to financially support homeowners to switch traditional boilers with renewable heating systems, increasing the use of heat pumps across the country. As of 2024, the grant can cover up to £7500 off the cost and installation of an air or ground source heat pump. The scheme is due to run from 2022 to 2028, after being extended to allow a larger window to apply and claim.
Am I eligible?
There are a few simple conditions required for the scheme, but don’t fret if you’re unsure of anything. We’re only a call away to discuss your suitability for the grant.
You must:
- Own the property you’re applying for (including a business, second home, or a property you rent out to tenants)
- Be replacing a fossil fuel heating system, such as oil, gas, electric or LPG (liquefied petroleum gas)
- Have a valid EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) for your property, with no outstanding recommendations for loft or cavity wall insulation
- Have your heat pump installed by an MCS-certified technician
What conditions make me ineligible?
Whilst the grant scheme is designed to support the majority of property owners, there are a few scenarios that may make you unsuitable, such as:
- Most new build properties (if the developer is still building it, for example)
- Social housing
- A property that’s already received government funding or support for a heat pump installation
- Self-build properties that have been owned by a business
- Installations that are not conducted by an MCS-certified professional
Do I need to be on benefits?
In short, no. Unlike similar government incentives such as the ECO4 scheme, the BUS doesn’t have any set criteria regarding benefits or income rules. The main condition for the scheme is to make sure your property is suitable for a heat pump installation – in other words, whether your home has the space and appropriate infrastructure for a heat pump to function efficiently. As licensed professionals, we’re happy to survey domestic and commercial properties to assess whether they would benefit from a heat pump.
How to apply
The easiest way to apply to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is to find an MCS installer that you trust, get a quote and get them to apply on your behalf. They’ll receive the funds and provide them to you in the form of an equivalent discount for their services on your invoice. This route is clean-cut, doesn’t require you to prove where your grant money went, and allows your heat pump installer to do the heavy lifting.
Why does it matter if my heat pump installer is MCS-certified?
In exchange for your grant money, the government wants to ensure that you select a trusted, credible provider for your heat pump installation. An MCS approval is a mark of quality assurance for them and you, to certify that the company meets exceptional industry standards. An MCS certified provider uses quality equipment, and follows best health and safety working practices to ensure the longevity of your heat pump.
Cheaper providers are not a good idea, as it’s likely they’re cutting corners somewhere to offer you a lower price, whether this be they’re not qualified, or they’re not using industry equipment to carry out the job.
Are old boilers being phased out?
From 2025, there will be a ban placed on installing traditional boilers into new builds or any property built after 2025 – so new homes won’t be connected to a gas network. The ban won’t affect anyone with an existing boiler in their homes, however it seems to be the government’s next step towards reducing carbon emissions significantly in the future.
Although there will be no obligation to switch your boiler for a renewable heating system, it may be a sign that there’s no time like the present to future-proof your property. As the UK continues making steps towards achieving net zero emissions, heat pumps are a great option to help reduce your carbon footprint, and may become commonplace in the future.
Thinking about making the switch?
At Heat Different, we are committed to providing credible, trusted advice and services on renewable heating systems. Sustainability is at the forefront of everything we do, and we’re happy to advise anyone considering a heat pump to contribute to creating a greener future.
If you have more questions about this excellent scheme or would like to know more about the benefits of heat pumps, feel free to get in touch with us by sending an enquiry or calling us on 01603 406052.