Upgrading an old heating system is a big decision, and the upfront costs can feel like a hurdle. That’s where the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) comes in. This government-backed initiative is designed to make switching from traditional fossil fuel boilers to low-carbon heating systems more affordable.
If you’re a homeowner in England or Wales with an existing fossil fuel heating system—such as a gas or oil boiler—you could be eligible for a grant to help cover the cost of a more energy-efficient replacement. The scheme supports air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps, and biomass boilers, providing upfront capital grants that reduce the financial burden.
With energy prices rising and a growing focus on reducing polluting emissions, now is a great time to consider making the switch. Let’s take a closer look at how the scheme works, who’s eligible, and whether it’s worth it.
How the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Works
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme aims to encourage the adoption of low-carbon heating technologies by reducing the upfront cost for homeowners. The scheme offers financial incentives to property owners looking to replace their existing fossil fuel system with a more efficient alternative.
What Funding is Available?
Homeowners can apply for grants to support the cost of installing:
- Air source heat pumps – £7,500 grant
- Ground source heat pumps – £7,500 grant
- Biomass boilers – £5,000 grant (available for rural properties only)
The funding is applied directly to the installation cost, reducing the initial financial burden. However, to qualify, the new heating system must meet certain standards, including a maximum installation capacity of 45kW.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, homeowners must:
- Live in England or Wales
- Own a property with a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Have an existing fossil fuel heating system, such as a gas boiler or oil boiler
- Be replacing a traditional fossil fuel boiler, not an existing heat pump
Social housing and new-build properties (unless self-built) are not eligible for funding under this scheme.
How to Apply
The application process involves:
- Finding an MCS-certified installer – Your chosen heating engineer will assess your home’s suitability for a low-carbon system and handle the application process on your behalf.
- Getting a quote – The installer provides a cost estimate for the work, factoring in the grant.
- Installer submits the application – Once the installation is complete, your installer will confirm the grant with Ofgem, the scheme administrator.
- Grant deduction – The funding is deducted from the final installation cost, so you don’t have to claim it separately.
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Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Worth It?
A key question for homeowners is whether the scheme offers enough financial support to justify the switch. Here are a few factors to consider:
1. Long-Term Energy Savings
Heat pumps and biomass boilers are more efficient than traditional fossil fuel heating systems, meaning they use less energy to produce the same level of warmth. While the upfront cost may be higher, lower running costs can result in significant savings over time.
2. Reducing Polluting Emissions
Low-carbon heating technologies drastically cut emissions compared to gas or oil boilers. For homeowners looking to reduce their environmental impact, switching to a heat pump or biomass boiler is one of the most effective changes they can make.
3. Increasing Property Value
Homes with energy-efficient heating systems and strong energy performance ratings tend to be more attractive to buyers. Investing in a heat pump installation could make your property more desirable in the future housing market.
4. Suitability for Your Home
Not every home is suitable for a heat pump or biomass boiler. Factors like insulation, hot water demands, and available space must be considered before making the switch. Consulting an expert heating engineer, such as Lazard Plumbing, ensures you get the best advice tailored to your property.
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How Lazard Plumbing Can Help Homeowners
Navigating the boiler upgrade process can feel overwhelming, but Lazard Plumbing is here to make it easier. We specialise in helping homeowners transition to low-carbon heating by offering expert advice and professional boiler installation services. Whether you’re considering an air source heat pump, ground source heat pump, or biomass boiler, we can guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you choose the best new heating system for your property.
We assess your existing fossil fuel heating system, help you explore energy efficiency measures, and ensure your home meets the eligibility requirements for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Our team of qualified heating engineers handles everything from system design to installation, making the upgrade as smooth as possible.
We also work with certified suppliers and installers under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), ensuring your installation meets all necessary standards so you can secure your grant.
If you live in a rural location, are off the gas grid, or want to invest in renewable energy solutions, we can help you find the right low-carbon heating system to meet your home’s hot water demands while keeping running costs manageable.
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Looking for Professional & Reliable Boiler Installation?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme makes switching to low-carbon heating more affordable by providing upfront capital grants for air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps, and biomass boilers. For homeowners in England and Wales looking to replace an existing fossil fuel system, this funding can help offset the upfront cost and provide long-term energy savings.
Lazard plumbing is made up of fully qualified engineers, available to cover plumbing, heating and boiler repair, replacement, and installations in Hornchurch, Essex and surrounding areas.
If you’re looking for a boiler installation or just need some advice on what steps you should take next, speak with our team of experts today.
Whether your home is in need of a plumber for home renovations, plumbing, underfloor heating, gas boiler installation and central heating, power flushing, or bathroom refurbs, we can help!
For complete peace of mind home plumbing solutions, contact our friendly team on 01708 502 346.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme FAQs
Can I use the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to replace my current heating system?
Yes, the scheme is specifically designed to help homeowners replace an existing fossil fuel system, such as a gas boiler or oil boiler, with a more energy-efficient alternative like a heat pump or biomass boiler.
How does the boiler replacement scheme affect my energy bills?
By switching to a low-carbon heating system, you could lower your energy bills over time. Heat pumps, for example, are highly efficient and use less energy than traditional fossil fuel heating systems.
What is the BUS grant, and how do I apply?
The BUS grant provides upfront capital funding to help cover the cost of installing a low-carbon heating system. You can apply through an MCS-certified installer, who will handle the process on your behalf.