Keeping your home warm during winter can be costly, especially if you rely on an old and inefficient boiler. To support households, the UK government provides free boiler replacement through the ECO4 scheme. This initiative helps low-income families, pensioners, and vulnerable households upgrade to efficient, eco-friendly boilers at little or no cost.

This guide explains what the scheme is, who qualifies, and how you can apply today.

What is Free Boiler Replacement?

The free boiler replacement scheme is part of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4). Funded by major UK energy suppliers, it covers the cost of installing A-rated condensing boilers for eligible households.

The scheme’s goals include:

Reducing household energy bills
Cutting carbon emissions
Supporting fuel-poor and vulnerable homes

Who Can Get a Free Boiler Replacement?

The scheme isn’t open to everyone. It is focused on households most in need.

Eligibility usually includes:

Living in the UK with an old or broken boiler (10–15+ years old).
Receiving benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Child Tax Credit.
Low-income households and pensioners.
Homes with poor energy efficiency ratings (E, F, or G).

👉 A quick eligibility check online can confirm if you qualify.

What Boilers Are Replaced Under the Scheme?

The programme mainly funds gas boiler replacements, but some households may also qualify for renewable heating options such as:

Air source heat pumps
Other low-carbon systems (depending on property suitability)

All installations are carried out by certified engineers to ensure safety and efficiency.

How to Apply for a Free Boiler Replacement

Applying for a grant is simple:

Eligibility check – Complete an online form.
Provide documents – Submit proof of benefits or income.
Home survey – An assessor inspects your boiler and property.
Approval – Funding is confirmed under ECO4.
Installation – A new boiler is fitted by an approved installer.

💡 Most households get installation within 2–4 weeks.

Benefits of Free Boiler Replacement

Replacing an old boiler brings several advantages:

Lower bills – Save up to £500 a year.
Better heating – Reliable warmth and hot water.
Energy efficiency – A-rated boilers use less fuel.
Eco-friendly – Reduced carbon emissions.
Added value – An efficient boiler can increase property value.

Alternatives if You Don’t Qualify

If you’re not eligible for full funding, you still have options:

Partial funding – ECO4 may cover part of the cost.
Local Authority Flex (LA Flex) – Councils can extend eligibility.
Boiler finance plans – Spread the cost monthly.

FAQs About Free Boiler Replacement

1. Is the scheme completely free?
Yes, for most households. In some cases, a small contribution may apply.

2. Can landlords apply?
Yes, if tenants meet the eligibility criteria.

3. How long does the process take?
On average, 2–4 weeks from application to installation.

4. Can I get a renewable system instead?
Some homes may qualify for heat pumps under ECO4.

How to Get Started

If your boiler is outdated or constantly breaking down, you could qualify for free boiler replacement today.

👉 Check Your Eligibility Here

Don’t wait until winter – apply now to secure your grant and enjoy lower energy bills.

Blog Summary – Free Boiler Replacement

Section	Key Points
What is it?	ECO4 scheme offers free boiler replacement funded by energy companies.
Who qualifies?	Low-income households, pensioners, and people on benefits.
Boilers covered	A-rated condensing boilers; some homes may get heat pumps.
How to apply	Eligibility check → Documents → Home survey → Approval → Installation.
Benefits	Save £500/year, efficient heating, eco-friendly, reliable system.
Alternatives	Partial funding, LA Flex, or monthly finance.
FAQs	Covers cost, landlords, approval time, and renewable options.

Free Boiler Replacement – Eligibility, Grants & How to Apply (2025)