If your house relies on heating using oil or LPG, you might be thinking about whether now is the right moment for upgrades. And you might be entitled to a free air source heat pump grant UK and free solar panels through the ECO4 scheme.
This scheme supports off-gas properties transitioning into clean, efficient heating. If you are eligible, the whole system, which incorporates the heat pump, insulation, and solar panels, can be installed free of cost to you.
What Is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An air source heat pump is a low-carbon heating system. It takes heat from the outside air (even when it’s chilly) and transfers it to your house and water.
Imagine it like a fridge, but turned upside down
- It takes in heat from the atmosphere.
- Then it compresses the heat to make it warmer.
- It distributes that heat to your radiators and also supplies you with hot water.
It’s powered by electricity, not gas or oil, and it’s significantly more energy efficient.
Why Replace Your Oil/LPG Boiler with a Heat Pump?
Oil and LPG boilers are:
- Costly to operate
- Harmful to the environment, as these have high carbon emissions
- Generally outdated and inefficient
Switching to a heat pump entails:
- Reduced energy bills
- Cleaner heating
- No further fuel deliveries
- Peace of mind with a reliable system
And if you are eligible through the ECO4 scheme, you can get it for free.
What Is the ECO4 Scheme?
ECO4 is an upgrade programme for heating systems backed by the government. It makes hard-to-heat and low-income properties energy efficient. Where applicable, you can receive:
- A free air source heat pump
- Free insulation
- Free solar panels
- All installed by a certified installer
The objective is to make UK housing warmer, greener, and less costly to operate.
Who Can Get the Air Source Heat Pump Grant UK?
This grant is primarily for:
- Homeowners or occupants who reside within properties not connected to the gas network
- Houses that have oil boilers, LPG systems, or electrical heating
- Households that qualify for specific benefits or tax credits
- Properties that have poor ratings for energy efficiency (E, F, or G-rated properties)
Even if you don’t receive benefits, you may still be entitled under your council’s flexible eligibility rules.
What You Must Have Before Replacing Your Oil/LPG Boiler
For you to qualify and successfully have a heat pump installed, your home must meet certain conditions:
- No Connection to the Gas Grid
This grant is generally for properties that don’t have mains gas. If your house already has a gas boiler, you won’t typically qualify for a heat pump under ECO4.
- Outdoor Space for the Heat Pump Unit
The system is installed outside, most often at the rear or side of the property. It’s approximately the same size as a small washing machine.
- Good Insulation
Your house must be insulated properly before a heat pump is set. This retains the heat inside. ECO4 will provide free insulation before heat pump installation.
- Poor Energy Efficiency
Your home will require an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E, F, or G. Don’t worry, your fitter can verify it for you.
How to Apply for Your Free Heat Pump Grant?
Here’s the way the process typically goes:
Step 1: See if You Qualify
You’ll need to answer some simple questions:
- What heating system do you currently have?
- Do you get any benefits or tax credits?
- What is your home’s EPC rating?
An assessor will determine if you qualify.
Step 2: Free Home Survey
If you qualify, a registered ECO-installer will come to your property:
- Inspect your existing boiler and heating system
- Examine your insulation
- Measure your house and outdoor space
- Verify your EPC rating
The survey is free and lasts approximately an hour.
Step 3: Free Insulation (Where Required)
Before installing the heat pump, they will insulate your home first. This could involve:
- Loft Insulation
- Cavity wall insulation
You won’t be paying a penny
Step 4: Installation of Heat Pump & Solar Panel
After your home is prepared:
- The LPG or old oil boiler is taken out
- A new air source heat pump is installed outside
- New pipework or radiators can be installed within
- Solar panels can also be installed on your roof
Most installs take 2–5 days.
Step 5: Enjoy Efficient, Clean Heat
When your work is completed, you’ll have:
- A brand new renewable heating system
- Reduced heating bills
- No more oil or LPG tanks
- A more energy-efficient home
What Is Covered Under the Grant?
With ECO4, the following is 100% free if you qualify:
- Air source heat pumps (unit and complete installation)
- New radiators or pipework (if necessary)
- All necessary wiring and controls
- Home insulation (loft, cavity walls, etc.)
- Solar panels (if applicable)
- EPC checks and home survey
- Complete installation by trained professionals
Benefits of Switching from Oil/LPG to a Heat Pump
Let’s break it down simply:
- Lower Bills: Heat pumps are 3-4 times more efficient than oil or LPG boilers. This equates to lower running bills and significant cost savings over the long term.
- Green: No fossil fuel burning. No fumes. Heat pumps cut your carbon footprint and combat climate change.
- Low Maintenance: They require little servicing and can last more than 20 years if well cared for.
- Added Value: A contemporary heating system can add value to your property. Further, house buyers tend to be attracted to properties that feature solar panels and green upgrades.
What If You Rent Your Home?
Tenants may qualify for the ECO4 scheme, but your landlord will have to provide written consent. Landlords usually consent due to:
- The upgrades are free
- The house becomes more energy efficient
- It can increase the property’s worth
- So if you are renting, talk to your landlord and explain what they can gain.
So, Is It Time to Upgrade?
Your house may still be using oil or LPG, but now is the ideal moment to make the switch. The Air Source Heat Pump Grant UK, under the government’s ECO4 scheme, might fund your complete upgrade—from insulation through to heat pump and solar panels.
Before getting started, reviewing an air source heat pump installation diagram can give you a clearer idea of how the system works and what changes might be needed in your home.
You’ll save, keep your home heated, and contribute to saving the environment. It won’t cost you a cent if you qualify.
