How to Get a Boiler Replacement for Free?
Getting a boiler is no doubt costly, usually between £2,000 and £4,000. What if, however, you were able to have a boiler replacement for free?
Thanks to the ECO4 scheme, financially eligible households in the UK can get their inefficient, old boilers upgraded for free. The free boiler replacement grant is meant to help families save on their bills, reduce carbon emissions, and keep their homes warmer and more efficient.
If you’re wondering who is eligible, and how to do so, keep on reading. Let’s take a closer glance at how to receive a free boiler replacement in 2025.
What is the Free Boiler Replacement Scheme?
The boiler replacement scheme is funded under the UK government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme. The scheme is calling on large power companies to help low-income households insulate their homes and have their boilers changed.
One of the chief advantages is to replace free boilers for qualifying individuals. So, if your boiler is old, wasteful, and non-condensing, you might have a new, efficient boiler installed for free.
Who Can Get a Free Boiler Replacement?
Not everyone qualifies for a free boiler – priority is given to those who have the most pressing needs. To qualify for boiler replacement under the ECO4 initiative in 2025, you must meet the following:
1. You must either be a homeowner or a private renter
- If you’re an owner-occupier, you might be eligible.
- If you’re a private tenant, you might still qualify, but you’ll need to have written authority from your landlord.
- Council tenants and housing association owners may not be included in this scheme.
2. Your boiler is old and inefficient
- The scheme is for boilers 15 years and older.
- It must be an efficient, non-condensing boiler – such boilers have lower efficiencies and cost more to run.
- If your boiler is recent and condensing, you’re not eligible.
3. Your home must have gas available.
- Your property must have a gas metre installed before April 2022.
- Homes without gas supplies do not fall under such a scheme.
4. You must meet the income needs
- Your annual household income must be £31,000 or less.
- This includes the total income for all who live in the household.
5. Your home’s energy rating must be low
- Your home must have an E, F, or G rating on their EPC.
- Homes with an A to D rating do not have efficient boilers and do not receive a free boiler.
6. You must receive some government benefits.
- These may include:
- Income Support (IS)
- Working Tax Credit (WTC)
- Child Tax Credit (CTC)
- Universal Credit (UC)
- Pension Guarantee Credit
- Pension Savings Credit
Meeting all of them makes you eligible for a completely free boiler replacement under the initiative.
What Types of Boilers Are Available?
The type of boiler you’re given will also depend on your property and how the scheme is funded. In general, grants fund:
- Condensing gas boilers – These are more efficient than their counterparts.
- Combi boilers – The ideal solution for small houses and no storage tank.
- Regular boilers – Suitable for larger homes with existing hot water cylinders.
In some cases, you may have an air source heat pump installed to replace a gas boiler.
How Does the Free Boiler Replacement Process Work?
If you think you’re eligible, here’s how the process works in simple steps:
Check your Eligibility
Start by filling in a standard form on an authorised ECO4 provider’s website. You’ll have to enter:
- Your address and postcode
- Your current boiler’s age and type
- Details about your household income
Get a Free Property Survey
If you pass the initial qualification, an approved surveyor will come to visit to:
- Inspect your boiler – to ensure age and efficiency
- Check your property’s EPC rating — to keep your property up to standard
- Ensure you have installed a gas metre before April 2022
Approval and Installation
Once approved, you’ll be scheduled for boiler installation. This normally takes:
- 1-2 days for average houses
- 3 or more days for larger, more complex installations
The new boiler is installed by a Gas Safe registered installer – therefore, you’re assured of having something safe and legal.
And the bonus is, that you do not have to pay for either of them – the boiler and installation are paid for by the arrangement.
Benefits of Receiving a Free Boiler Replacement
Replacing an old, wasteful boiler with a new, efficient boiler is good for both your household and for your pocketbook.
1. Lower heating bills
Old boilers have efficiencies below 70% and therefore waste energy and cost you extra. A new 90% or greater A-rated condensing boiler means less fuel is necessary to heat up your property. On average, you may save £300–£500 on annual bills by having your boiler upgraded.
2. A warmer, cosier living space
An old boiler might struggle to keep your property warm, especially in cold conditions. A modern boiler provides efficient heating — warming up your property and draught free, and free of surprise breakdowns.
3. Fewer repairs and failures
Older boilers tend to fail more frequently and cost more to replace. A new boiler is warranted – so you won’t have to expect unexpected maintenance or replacement component bills.
4. Lower carbon footprint
Energy-efficient boilers use less gas — reducing carbon emissions. This helps to bring the UK closer to net zero by 2050 – and you have a part to play by simply having your boiler upgraded.
5. Increases your property’s value
Energy-efficient homes have greater market attractiveness. A better EPC rating is capable of adding to your property’s value — and is thus a smart future decision.
Why is the Government Offering Free Boiler Replacements?
You might ask yourself: Why is the government offering new boilers?
The UK is on a mission to:
- Cut carbon emissions – old boilers waste energy and pollute.
- Reduce fuel poverty by helping low-income households reduce their expenditure on fuel.
- Reach net zero by 2050 – in accordance with a comprehensive plan to address climate change.
By offering boiler replacement for free, the government is investing in green heating systems — keeping households efficient and saving money.
How to Apply for a Free Boiler Replacement in 2025
Ready to apply? Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Find an ECO4 supplier – search for approved companies who offer free boiler grants.
- Find out if you’re eligible — complete a brief form on income, property, and boiler type.
- In-home Survey — an approved surveyor visits your property to check on your boiler and rating for energy.
- Installation day – if approved, you’ll receive free installation of a new boiler.
It’s that simple – and could save you up to several hundred pounds per year.
The Bottom Line
If you’re stuck with high energy bills and an old boiler, receiving a free boiler replacement might help. The ECO4 scheme provides funding for UK homes to have their boilers upgraded for free.
Check your eligibility today and apply for a free boiler scheme. It’s a simple process that could save you hundreds of pounds each year while keeping your home warm and comfortable.
