What Types of Boilers Are Covered by the Scheme?

If you live in the UK and your home feels cold in the winter, getting a new boiler can make a big difference. But many families can't afford to replace an old boiler. That's where the Free Boiler Grant scheme comes in. It helps people get a new, energy-efficient boiler without paying the full cost.

In this guide, we’ll explain what types of boilers are covered by the scheme, who qualifies, and how you can apply. We’ll also break things down in a simple, clear way so everyone can understand.

What Is the Free Boiler Grant Scheme?

The Free Boiler Grant is part of the UK Government’s ECO4 Scheme (Energy Company Obligation). It was set up to help low-income households and those living in fuel poverty.

The goal is to reduce carbon emissions and make homes more energy-efficient. If your boiler is old or broken, you may be able to get a new one for free—or at a much lower cost.

This grant doesn’t work like a loan. You don’t have to pay it back. It’s fully funded by big energy companies as part of their legal responsibility to reduce carbon output.

Why the Right Boiler Matters

Old boilers can waste a lot of energy. They use more fuel, break down more often, and don’t heat your home well. A modern, efficient boiler saves you money on energy bills and keeps your home warm.

But not all boilers are covered under the scheme. So let’s look at the types of boilers that do qualify for a replacement under the Free Boiler Grant.

Which Boilers Are Covered by the Scheme?

The scheme mainly replaces inefficient, outdated, or broken boilers. Here are the types of boilers that may be covered:

1. Gas Boilers (Non-Condensing)

Gas boilers that are non-condensing are usually more than 15 years old. These types of boilers lose a lot of heat through the flue and are not energy-efficient. If you still use one of these, you may qualify for a Free Boiler Grant.

The scheme may replace your old gas boiler with a new condensing combi boiler that’s much more efficient. This reduces your heating bills and carbon footprint.

Qualifying signs:

• The boiler is over 15 years old.
• It has a pilot light.
• You notice higher gas bills.

2. LPG Boilers

LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) boilers are often used in off-grid homes that don’t have access to the main gas network.

If you have an old or faulty LPG boiler, you may qualify for a replacement under the scheme—especially if your household is low-income or receives government benefits.

These boilers may be replaced with energy-efficient alternatives, such as an air source heat pump or a new LPG combi boiler.

3. Oil Boilers

Oil boilers are also used in off-grid homes. Many rural areas in the UK rely on oil heating systems.

The scheme helps replace old or broken oil boilers, especially if they are not condensing models. These older models tend to be less efficient and pollute more.

You may qualify if:

• Your oil boiler is more than 15 years old.
• The system is frequently breaking down.
• Your property is off-grid and meets the income criteria.

4. Electric Storage Heaters

These are not technically boilers, but many homes use electric storage heaters for warmth. Old electric storage heaters are very inefficient and cost a lot to run.

If your home has these, the Free Boiler Grant may help you replace them with:

• An air source heat pump.
• A modern electric heating system.
• A hybrid system with a small boiler and heat pump.

5. Solid Fuel Boilers

These include boilers that burn coal, wood, or other solid fuels. They are outdated, unsafe, and bad for the environment. If your home still uses one of these, you may qualify for a full replacement.

In most cases, these will be replaced with:

• A modern electric heating system.
• A gas or oil boiler (if your home is connected).
• A renewable heating system (such as a heat pump).

6. Back Boilers (Usually Behind Fireplaces)

A back boiler is a small boiler unit hidden behind a fireplace. These were common in homes built before the 1980s. They are hard to service, very inefficient, and usually cannot be upgraded.

Back boilers are covered under the scheme and are often replaced with a:

• Wall-mounted combi boiler.
• System boiler with hot water storage.

Removing a back boiler is a bigger job, but the Free Boiler Grant covers the cost in most cases.

Boilers Not Typically Covered

Not every boiler is eligible for replacement. The scheme does not usually cover:

• Modern condensing boilers that are working fine.
• Boilers installed less than 7–10 years ago.
• Systems already upgraded under a previous ECO scheme.

Also, landlords cannot apply unless the tenant qualifies and lives in the property.

What Are the New Boilers Installed Under the Scheme?

Most people who qualify will get a condensing combi boiler. These boilers are:

• Small and compact.
• Energy-efficient (rated A or above).
• Capable of heating water and radiators without a separate tank.

Other options include:

• System boilers: good for homes with more than one bathroom.
• Air source heat pumps: for off-grid or eco-friendly homes.
• Hybrid systems: combining a boiler with a heat pump.

The installer will check your home to decide the best replacement system.

Who Qualifies for the Free Boiler Grant?

To get a new boiler under the Free Boiler Grant scheme, your household must meet certain rules:

1. You must own your home or live in a privately rented home (with landlord consent).

2. Your current boiler must be:

• Non-condensing.
• Broken or very inefficient.

3. Someone in your household must receive one or more of these benefits:

• Universal Credit
• Pension Credit
• Child Tax Credit
• Working Tax Credit
• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Housing Benefit
• Child Benefit (with income limits)

4. Your home must have a low Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating—usually D, E, F, or G.

You’ll also need a home survey before the boiler is replaced. This is to make sure your home qualifies for upgrades.

Why Should You Apply for a Free Boiler Grant?

There are several reasons to apply:

1. Save on Heating Bills

A new A-rated boiler uses less energy. You’ll notice lower gas or oil bills each month.

2. Better Heating Control

Modern boilers heat your home evenly. You won’t have cold rooms or hot spots.

3. Environmentally Friendly

Efficient boilers produce fewer carbon emissions, helping the planet.

4. Free or Almost Free Upgrade

If you qualify, your boiler and installation could be fully covered. In some cases, you may need to contribute a small amount, but most people pay nothing.

How to Apply for the Free Boiler Grant

Applying is simple. Follow these steps:

Check Your Eligibility

Go to an approved website or service provider that offers Free Boiler Grant checks. Fill out a short form with your details.

Home Energy Assessment

If you qualify, an assessor will visit your home. They’ll inspect your current heating system and energy efficiency.

Installation Booking

Once approved, a certified engineer will schedule the installation. Most installations take 1–2 days.

Enjoy a Warmer Home

You’ll enjoy better heating, lower bills, and peace of mind.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Make sure your benefits are up to date.
• Keep any recent letters or documents from DWP.
• Provide correct property details (especially if rented).
• Be honest about your current boiler’s age and condition.

Final Thoughts

If your home still has an old or broken boiler, the Free Boiler Grant could change everything. It helps you stay warm, save money, and reduce your carbon footprint—all without the big upfront cost.

Most importantly, knowing what types of boilers are covered by the scheme helps you decide whether it’s worth applying. From old gas and LPG boilers to oil-fired and solid fuel systems, the scheme covers many outdated models.

If you receive certain benefits, such as PIP, you may be eligible under boiler grants for PIP claimants, making it even easier to upgrade your heating system for free.