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Many people in the UK use storage heaters. But new boilers are often more efficient. Modern boilers may save energy and reduce costs when storage heaters are replaced with them. For this, the government provides grants to help those who cannot afford the replacement cost.
Let’s examine the grants that are available, the eligibility requirements, and the application steps. Before moving forward, let’s know why it is important to replace storage heaters with boilers.
Why Replace Storage Heaters with Boilers?
Storage heaters use electricity to heat homes. They store heat at night, when electricity is cheaper. But they can still be cheaper to run. New boilers are usually more efficient. Boilers can heat homes more evenly and at lower costs. With a free combi or system boiler, you can get hot water only on demand and save a big amount every year. So, switching from storage heaters to a boiler will definitely be a smart choice.
Government Grants for Replacing Storage Heaters
There are government grants available in the UK that help for free heating upgrades. The ECO4 scheme offers a number of different grants to assist homeowners in warming cold homes.
They may swap your outdated heating systems with modern, energy-efficient models. The grants pay for all costs involved in buying, transporting as well as installing a new boiler at your home. For homeowners or private tenants who are on low income, grants may even cover the cost of home insulation when required. This helps make switching to a boiler not just free but also results in lifetime savings.
Who Can Get These Grants?
Not everyone can apply to the boiler replacement grants under the ECO4 scheme. The grants are mainly for people with low income. They are also for those who receive certain benefits. Old-aged people can also be eligible for boiler replacement scheme over 60s if they meet criteria. Only homeowners or private tenants are eligible to apply.
You may not qualify, though, if you rent from the council or live in social housing. The rules for each grant are different. You can find out whether you qualify by checking eligibility criteria. Only those households who are on government benefits can apply.
How to Apply for the ECO4 Grant
Applying for an ECO4 grant is simple. First, check if you qualify for the grant. You can do this by calling an energy company or installer. Otherwise, some renowned installer added a free eligibility checker, which determines your eligibility right away.
Next, fill out the application form. You may need to provide details about your home and income. If you qualify, the installer will arrange a survey. They will check your home to see what improvements are needed. After that, the boiler installation will begin with insulation if required.
What Does the Survey Involve?
The survey is an important step in getting the grant. A surveyor will visit your home. They will check your current heating system. The surveyor will see if a boiler would be better for you. They will also check for other improvements.
This can include heat pumps with solar panels and free insulation. The survey is free if you qualify for the grant. The surveyor will then decide what upgrades can be done to give a maximum boost to your home EPC rating, which has to be below D at the time of survey. This helps make sure you get the best options for your home.
Types of Boilers You Can Get
There are several types of boilers used in the UK, and the most common is the combi boiler. Such boilers heat water instantly, and don’t need a water tank. Combi boilers are often very efficient.
Another type is the system boiler, which needs a hot water tank. A third type is the regular boiler, which also needs a tank. The type you choose depends on your home. Each type has benefits, and a surveyor can help you decide.
Benefits of Switching to a New Boiler
Making the switch to a boiler offers many advantages. Compared to storage heaters, boilers are often less expensive to operate. Additionally, they heat spaces more quickly and uniformly. A new boiler provides consistent hot water at any time for washing, housekeeping and even cooking. Additionally, boilers complement other improvements, such as insulation. They may lower your energy costs by warming your house. Over time, this can save you a lot of money.
Things to Know Before Applying
Before applying for a grant, there are a few things to know. First, check if your storage heater is very old. The grant is usually for homes with old heating systems. Ensure you do not have an existing boiler with the heater, or your boiler is older than 15 years.
You may need to make some wiring or piping adjustments when you switch from a heater to a boiler. Ask the surveyor about any extra costs regarding construction work if needed. Lastly, check if there are limits on the grants amount. For some grants like Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) has a limit of up to £5,000 for boiler grants. This will help you plan better. You are eligible only if you are a private tenant or a homeowner or someone living with them at the same address.
Other Grants You Can Apply For
The ECO scheme isn’t the only grant available. As mentioned earlier, Boiler Upgrade Scheme and local councils also offer help with heating upgrades. There is also the Warm Home Discount Scheme in some regions in the UK that gives money off your winter electricity bills.
The Winter Fuel Payment is another grant for older people. The Cold Weather Payment also helps people when the weather is very cold. By checking all your options, you may find more grants and government help. Applying for more grants can increase your savings.
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
Applying for grants can be easy if you prepare well. Start by gathering all the needed documents. This includes proof of income and benefit letters. Also, get your landlord’s permission if you are living on rental property. However, few grants like the first time central heating grant don’t need the landlord’s approval.
Book your survey early to avoid delays. Ask questions if you are unsure about any part of the process by leaving comments or calling our grant application experts who will assist you for free. They can help you prepare all necessary documents early if you are eligible. Being prepared can make everything go faster.
Conclusion
Government grants can make switching from storage heaters to boilers affordable. This adjustment may enhance your quality of life, lower your expenses, and keep your house warm. You can easily make the transition if you know what the grant alternatives are and follow the instructions. Apply now to begin reaping the rewards of a more energy-efficient, warmer home.
Frequently Asked Questions
New condensing gas boilers are considered as most favourite to replace old storage heaters. Because gas boilers provide better efficiency and result in lower energy consumption than storage heaters. Moreover, new boilers heat water and warm living rooms much better than traditional heaters.
You have to be a homeowner or a private tenant whose household claims certain government benefits like universal credit, pension credit, working tax credit, child tax credit, income allowance, job seeker’s allowance, and employment & Support Allowance.
As storage heaters consume a lot of electricity but results in less output in terms of heating. Thus, storage heaters might be obsolete in the near future.
Not just upgrading, but free replacing old storage heaters definitely worth it. It can save up to £300 on annual energy bills.
