UK Grants for Back Boiler Removal & Heat Pump Upgrades
Upgrading your heating system can feel like a big step, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. If your home still relies on an old back boiler, there are UK government grants available to help you switch to a more efficient, eco-friendly alternative—like an air source heat pump. These grants cover a large part of the cost, sometimes all of it.
Let’s break down how the back boiler removal grant and the air source heat pump government grant can make this upgrade affordable and worthwhile.
Back Boilers Explained: Why Replacing Yours Makes Sense
Back boilers are heating systems installed behind fireplaces, common in UK homes built from the 1960s to 1980s. While they were compact, they’re now outdated, inefficient, and often unsafe.
Many back boilers:
- It can’t be repaired due to discontinued parts.
- Waste more energy than they use.
- Produce high carbon emissions.
- They are not compatible with modern home heating upgrades.
Example:
Lisa from Nottingham lived in a 1970s terrace with a back boiler that barely heated her home. After hearing about the grant from a friend, she applied and got it removed for free. Her new system is not only cheaper to run but keeps the house much warmer.
What Is a Back Boiler Removal Grant?
The back boiler removal grant is part of larger UK energy schemes that support low-income and energy-inefficient households. It helps cover the cost of removing old boilers, particularly back boilers, which are often expensive to take out due to their location behind the wall.
These grants are usually available through:
- ECO4 Scheme – Aimed at low-income or vulnerable households.
- Local Authority Delivery (LAD) – Targets homes with low energy ratings.
- Home Upgrade Grant (HUG) – Specifically for off-grid homes.
If you meet certain conditions, the grant will cover:
- Safe removal of your back boiler.
- Upgrades to your insulation (if needed).
- Installation of a new energy-efficient heating system.
The Air Source Heat Pump Government Grant
Once the old boiler is removed, many homeowners are choosing air source heat pumps as their new heating solution. To make this switch easier, the government offers the air source heat pump government grant, part of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS).
You could get as much as £7,500 off the cost of installing an air source heat pump through the government grant.
How It Works:
- The installer applies on your behalf.
- The grant is paid directly to them, reducing your bill.
- You must own the property and have a valid EPC (Energy Performance Certificate).
Why Choose an Air Source Heat Pump?
Air source heat pumps are one of the most efficient home heating options available in the UK today. They work by absorbing heat from the air outside (even in winter) and using it to warm your home.
Benefits:
- Lower running costs than gas boilers.
- Reduce your carbon footprint.
- Long lifespan—typically 15 to 20 years.
- Compatible with smart thermostats.
- Qualify for generous grants.
Real-World Case:
The Singh family in Leicester removed their back boiler and replaced it with a heat pump through the BUS grant. They used a local installer recommended by Ofgem. After the upgrade, their heating bills dropped by 30%, and their EPC rating improved from E to B.
Am I Eligible for These Grants?
Grant eligibility depends on several factors. Here’s a general idea:
For Back Boiler Removal Grant:
- You need to either own the property or be a private tenant.
- Your boiler must be non-condensing (most back boilers are).
- Your home typically needs an EPC rating of D or lower.
- You may need to be on a qualifying benefit (for ECO4).
For Air Source Heat Pump Government Grant:
- You must own the home in England or Wales.
- You must be replacing a fossil fuel heating system (like a back boiler or oil boiler).
- Your home must have adequate insulation.
Tip: Many grant providers offer a free eligibility check online, and it only takes a few minutes.
How to Apply for the Grant
Applying is easier than you think. Here’s a quick step-by-step:
- Find an Approved Installer
Use the Ofgem website or trusted comparison sites to locate certified installers in your area.
- Book a Home Survey
The installer will assess your heating system and check if you qualify.
- Submit Your Application
They’ll help you handle the paperwork for the grant.
- Get the Work Done
If you’re approved, they’ll remove the back boiler and install your new heat pump—often within a few weeks.
Common Questions
Q: Will I pay anything at all?
A: Some households pay nothing, while others may pay a small contribution. It depends on the scheme and your eligibility.
Q: Do I need planning permission?
A: Not usually. Most heat pump installations fall under permitted development rights.
Q: What if I don’t want a heat pump?
A: Other options like high-efficiency combi boilers may be available through different grants, but heat pumps offer the best long-term savings.
Final Thoughts
Replacing a back boiler may seem like a hassle, but with the right support, it’s a smooth and affordable process. The back boiler removal grant and the air source heat pump government grant are part of a growing push to help UK households reduce energy bills and emissions.