Boiler Grants vs Buying a New Boiler: Which Option Saves You More?

Boiler Grants vs Buying a New Boiler: Which Option Saves You More?

1. Why Upgrading Your Boiler Is a Smart Move in 2025

With rising energy prices and a growing push for energy-efficient homes, the UK government has continued to support energy-saving home improvements through schemes like ECO4 and GBIS. Older boilers (especially those over 15 years old) are typically less efficient and more costly to run.

Upgrading to a modern A-rated condensing boiler can:

• Reduce energy bills by up to £580 per year (according to the Energy Saving Trust)

• Lower your carbon footprint

• Provide better heating control and home comfort

2. What Is a Boiler Grant?

A boiler grant is a government-backed initiative aimed at helping low-income households, vulnerable residents, and qualifying homeowners upgrade their heating systems at little to no cost.

The two main schemes in the UK currently are:

• ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation – Phase 4)
  Focuses on supporting households with low income or poor energy efficiency ratings.

• GBIS (Great British Insulation Scheme)
  Primarily focused on insulation but may also support heating upgrades depending on household eligibility.

Under these schemes, eligible homeowners and private tenants may receive:

• A brand-new boiler (gas or electric, depending on property)

• Free professional installation

• Additional insulation or ventilation improvements

3. Who Qualifies for a Free or Funded Boiler?

Eligibility criteria may vary depending on the scheme, but you may qualify for a boiler grant if you:

• Are a homeowner or private tenant

• Have a household income below a certain threshold

• Receive means-tested benefits (e.g., Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit)

• Live in a property with poor energy performance (EPC rating D-G)

• Have a broken or inefficient boiler (non-condensing or G-rated)

In some cases, you can still qualify without benefits if you meet the “low-income or vulnerable household” criteria, particularly under the GBIS council tax band route.

Tip: Visit Simple Green Energy 

4. Benefits of Using a Boiler Grant

Here are the biggest advantages of getting a boiler through a grant:

✅ Minimal or No Upfront Cost

Most schemes cover 100% of the cost, including installation, saving you £2,500–£4,000 on average.

✅ Professional Installation

Installers are certified under PAS2030/TrustMark standards, ensuring quality and compliance.

✅ Long-Term Energy Savings

An A-rated boiler can be up to 90% efficient compared to older models at 60–70%, reducing energy bills significantly.

✅ No Hassle Process

Providers like Simple Green Energy handle surveys, funding applications, and full installation logistics.

✅ Added Measures

You may receive loft or cavity wall insulation, ventilation improvements, and even smart controls further enhancing your home’s efficiency.

5. Buying a Boiler Outright – What’s Involved?

If you don’t qualify for a grant or prefer a specific boiler make or installer, purchasing a new boiler yourself is the alternative.

Here’s what you’ll need to consider:

Costs

• Boiler unit: £1,000 – £2,500 (depending on brand and type)

• Installation: £500 – £1,500+

• Optional extras: smart thermostat, magnetic filter, system flush, etc.

Total cost can range from £2,000 to £4,000 or more.

Choosing a Brand and Installer

Top boiler brands include Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, Ideal, and Baxi. It’s important to:

• Compare quotes from Gas Safe registered engineers

• Choose a boiler that suits your home size and hot water needs

• Ask about warranties (typically 5–10 years)

Maintenance Responsibility

When you buy a boiler independently, you’re fully responsible for ongoing servicing, breakdowns, and repairs.

6. Which Option Is Better for Different Types of Homeowners?

7. Real-Life Example:

Meet Priya, Birmingham
Priya applied for a boiler grant through Simple Green Energy after seeing rising heating bills. As a homeowner with a G-rated EPC and on Universal Credit, she qualified under ECO4.

Within 14 days, she had a new boiler installed along with loft insulation—all at zero cost. Her monthly gas bill dropped by over £50.

“The process was smooth, and the team handled everything—from paperwork to installation. I couldn’t believe I didn’t have to pay a penny.”

8. Conclusion: What’s the Best Choice for You?

If you qualify for a boiler grant under ECO4 or GBIS, it’s almost always the smarter and more economical option. You’ll avoid the hefty upfront cost, enjoy free installation, and benefit from better energy efficiency all at no financial risk.