First Time Central Heating Grants
Get Free Central Heating for the First Time – Transform Your Home & Slash Energy Bills Today!
Never had central heating? Get it installed for free through the First Time Central Heating Grant! Eligible UK households with no existing central heating can now benefit from the ECO4 Scheme, offering a full heating system at zero cost.
Improve your home’s warmth, energy efficiency, and value – without paying a penny.
Check if you qualify in just 30 seconds.
What is the first time central heating grant?
The First Time Central Heating Grant is part of the ECO4 government scheme, which aims to help UK households lower their energy bills, reduce carbon emissions, and improve overall home comfort.
This grant is available for homes without any existing central heating system. It provides homeowners and tenants with the opportunity to install gas boilers, central heating radiators, pipeworks, TRVs, heat pumps, and smart heating controls, all at no cost
It’s an ideal option for those who rely on outdated, inefficient heating methods such as electric heaters or open fires, offering a seamless transition to a modern, energy-efficient heating system.
Typically, installing a new central heating system can cost between £3,500 and £10,000. With this grant, you can upgrade your home heating systems for free.
Step-by-Step:
How to Get Your First Time Central Heating Grant
To apply for first time central heating grant, simply follow the below quick and easy steps
Check Your Eligibility
Complete our quick online form to see if you can be qualified. It only takes a minute and could save you thousands on energy bills every year.
Free Home Survey
One of our friendly ECO4 scheme installers will come to your house to inspect what energy-saving improvements you require, such as insulation or a new boiler.
Free Installation
On approval, a certified specialist will install the recommended improvements free of charge to you. It’s fast, easy, and completely hassle-free
Which Types of Central Heating Systems qualify for the ECO4 Grants
Do you rely on an outdated heating system? If so, you might qualify for a government grant for central heating under the ECO4 scheme. Eligible systems include:
Direct Electric Heaters or Fan Heaters
Electric or fan heaters provide limited, localized heating rather than evenly warming the home. These outdated and inefficient systems use more energy than modern central heating systems.
Solid Fuel System
These systems burn coal or other solid fuels, which are less efficient and more polluting than modern gas or electric central heating systems. They contribute to higher energy bills and increased carbon emissions.
Wood/Biomass Room Heaters
Wood and biomass heaters burn organic materials such as wood; biomass fuels are more polluting and less efficient than modern systems. The central heating grant enables households to convert to an energy-efficient central heating system.
Gas Fired Back Boilers
Gas-fired back boilers are outdated, running at only 78% efficiency compared to combi boilers today. If not maintained adequately, these old systems can create safety hazards, including carbon monoxide leaks. The ECO4 grant allows you to swap an outdated back boiler for a modern, energy-efficient heating system , increasing safety and comfort and reducing energy bills.
Oil / LPG Room Heaters
These heaters depend on costly fuel sources, leading to high running costs and significant carbon emissions. They are often used in areas without a gas connection. The ECO4 grant helps upgrade these inefficient systems to modern, energy-efficient solutions.
- No Gas Connection: Replaced with an Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP).
- Gas Available: Replaced with gas boilers to improve efficiency and lower costs.
Non-Centralized Heating System
These include outdated heating systems without radiators, such as individual electric heaters or standalone appliances. They offer localized heat but lack the efficiency of a modern, centralized heating solution.
Benefits of central heating grant
Environmentally Friendly
Greater Comfort
Enhanced Property Value
Reduced Noise Pollution
Improved Air Quality
Lower Energy Bills
Who Qualifies for First Time Central Heating Grant?
You can qualify for free central heating grants if you are a homeowner or a private tenant. Your property must have no central heating. Additionally, your home’s energy efficiency will determine your eligibility, and you must receive certain government benefits to qualify.
Eligibility Criteria for First Time Central Heating
- Homeownership Status:
Applicants must be homeowners or private tenants. Tenants need their landlord’s permission to apply. - Main Gas Supply:
If your home has a main gas supply with a Gas meter installed before April 1, 2022, you may qualify for a new gas central heating system.
You may be eligible for an air source heat pump grant if there is no gas meter installed on your property. - Property EPC Rating:
Your home must have an EPC rating of E, F, or G. Properties with these lower ratings are prioritized for installing central heating systems. - Qualifying Government Benefits:
You must receive at least one of the qualifying government benefits listed in the next section. - No Existing Heating System:
You are eligible if you have never had a central heating system.
Qualifying Government Benefits for Central Heating Grant
- Job Seekers Allowance (Income-Based
- Employment and Support Allowance (Income-Based)
- Earning Assistance
- Pension Credit (Guaranteed Credit)
- Working Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Universal Credit
- Pension Savings Credit
- Housing Benefit
Affordable Free Central Heating Through ECO4
The ECO4 Scheme is a government-backed initiative designed to help households across the UK improve their home’s energy efficiency. It offers funding for upgrades like central heating systems, insulation, and more, especially for low-income or vulnerable households. By installing a more efficient central heating system through ECO4, you can boost your EPC rating, lower your energy bills, and reduce your carbon footprint. It’s a smart step toward a warmer, greener, and more affordable home.
Are you a pensioner wondering if you can also apply for central heating grants? See our full guide on central heating grants for pensioners.
Efficient Central Heating Systems Improves Your EPC Rating
Homes with poor EPC ratings (D, E, F, or G) consume more energy, leading to higher utility bills. Upgrading to an efficient central heating system can boost your EPC rating by improving energy usage and reducing heat loss. This means lower bills and a warmer, more comfortable home.
Not only does a higher EPC rating cut costs and carbon emissions, but it can also increase your property’s value. Choosing central heating is a smart investment—for your wallet and the environment.
What is Included in the Free Central Heating Grant?
If you are eligible for a first-time central heating grant, you may also qualify for other home energy efficiency improvements, including:
01
A-rated Gas Boiler (or Heat Pump if no gas supply)
02
Radiators in every room
03
Pipework & professional installation
04
TRVs & Smart Heating Controls
05
Free insulation upgrades (where required)
FAQs
What Is First Time Central Heating?
First Time Central Heating refers to installing a complete central heating system in homes that have never had one before. This includes the installation of gas boilers, radiators, thermostats, heat pumps, and smart heating controls. Under the ECO4 scheme, eligible households can receive this system installation for free, improving energy efficiency, reducing heating costs, and enhancing comfort in homes without existing central heating.
How Can I Qualify For First Time Central Heating?
You must meet specific criteria to qualify for the First Time Central Heating Grant. These include being a homeowner or a private tenant (with the landlord’s permission), having a property with an EPC rating of E or lower, and receiving certain government benefits like Child Tax Credits, Universal Credits, and Pension Credit Guarantee Credits.
Who can apply for first time central heating grants?
Homeowners and private tenants living in properties that have never had central heating can apply. Tenants need permission from their landlords to qualify. Applicants must also meet specific criteria, such as receiving eligible government benefits and residing in properties with a qualifying EPC rating.
WHAT TYPES OF FIRST-TIME CENTRAL HEATING GRANTS ARE AVAILABLE?
There are two main types:
- Central Heating (Mains Gas): For homes with a gas connection and meter installed before April 1, 2022.
- Central Heating (Heat Pump): For properties without a gas connection. Additional grants for insulation, heat pumps, solar panels, electric storage heaters, and upgrading non-condensing boilers are available.
What does a first time central heating grant cover?
The grant covers the installation of a complete central heating system, including:
- The boiler, such as a mains gas boiler, biomass boiler, LPG boiler, air source heat pump, ground source heat pump, or electric boiler
- Central Heating Radiators
- TRVs (Thermostatic Radiator Valves)
- Smart Heating Controls
- Pipework and Necessary Fittings
It may also include insulation upgrades to improve energy efficiency.
ARE PRIVATE TENANTS ELIGIBLE FOR FIRST-TIME CENTRAL HEATING GRANTS?
Yes, tenants living in rented properties are eligible, with an EPC rating of D or lower D. Landlord permission is required in the grant application process.
DO I NEED TO BE A HOMEOWNER TO QUALIFY FOR THE FIRST-TIME CENTRAL HEATING GRANT?
No, eligibility extends to private tenants as well. Private tenants can also qualify, provided they have the landlord’s permission and the property meets the required EPC rating criteria. Landlords can also access grants. Landlords can apply for the grant on behalf of their tenants.
Could I Qualify For A First-Time Central Heating Grant If I Don't Receive Benefits?
In some cases, yes.
If you do not receive any of the qualifying benefits, you may qualify for first time central heating grants under ECO Flex Rules.
Local councils can recommend receiving a central heating grant if you satisfy their rules regarding fuel poverty.
Each council can set its own rules, and we work with most local councils across the UK.
What Documentation Do I Need To Provide When Applying For Central Heating Grants?
You may need to provide your home’s EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) and proof that you are receiving one of the eligible government benefits.
I Have No Central Heating Can I Get A Grant?
If your home has never had central heating and you meet certain eligibility criteria, you may qualify for the First Time Central Heating Grant. To be eligible, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be a homeowner or a private tenant (with landlord permission).
- Your property should have an EPC rating of E, F, or G.
- You must receive qualifying government benefits.
- If your home lacks a gas supply, you may be eligible for an air source heat pump instead.
If you meet these criteria, the grant will cover the installation of a complete central heating system, including a gas boiler, radiators, thermostats, and heat controls, free of charge.
Ready to Upgrade?
Apply Now for Your Air Source Heat Pump Grant
Don’t miss your chance to take advantage of government funding for air source heat pumps in 2025. Let EcoWarmth Grant assist you today in making the change.
