If you are wondering if the ECO4 scheme provides heat pumps too, the answer is yes. In line with the ECO4 scheme, you can have a new, free air source heat pump fitted in place of your existing, inefficient heating system.
This is big news—particularly if you use oil or an outdated gas boiler. Heat pumps are greener, less expensive to operate, and better for the environment. And depending on whether you are on a low income, pension credit, or the right benefits, you may not have to spend a penny on it.
In this article, we will explain who is eligible, how it operates, and why heat pumps are becoming the heating system of choice for tomorrow.
What is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An ASHP is a low-carbon heating system. It extracts heat from outside air—even when it is cold—and uses this to provide warmth to your property and your hot water.
It is somewhat like having a refrigerator in reverse. It introduces warmth into buildings rather than keeping them cool. It is powered by electricity but uses much less energy than conventional heating systems. Air source heat pumps are as much as 300% to 400% efficient—i.e., they produce 3 to 4 units of heat energy for every unit of electricity it consumes.
They are suitable for both modern houses and highly-insulated older houses. If you have an old, inefficient gas or oil or coal boiler, an air source heat pump is a cleaner, greener alternative.
Does the ECO4 Scheme Cover Heat Pumps?
Yes, it is possible to get an air source heat pump under the ECO4 scheme—but only by meeting specific criteria.
The ECO4 program is intended to make low-income houses more efficient. One of its aims is to get houses off fossil fuels (such as coal and oil) and on to cleaner systems. Heat pumps are among the prime options encouraged.
If you have an oil, coal, LPG, or old electric heating system, then you may be able to get a free installation of an air source heat pump. Your house must have a low energy performance rating (E, F, or G) and comply with other regulations drawn up by the government.
It is not a one-size-fits-all. The air source heat pump grant will vary depending on your house, earnings, and existing heating system.
Who Qualifies for a Free Heat Pump through ECO4?
Here is a basic checklist. You may be eligible if:
- You personally own or privately lease your house (with consent from the landlord).
- You reside in a house with an EPC rating of E, F, or G.
- Your existing boiler is outdated, faulty, or powered by oil, LPG, or coal.
- You or somebody in your household gets a qualifying benefit (such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit, Income Support, etc.).
Why is There a Free Heat Pumps Scheme?
The UK is striving to become Net Zero by 2050. That implies reducing carbon emissions as much as possible. Home heating is among the largest emitters of carbon in the UK.
Fossil fuels are burned by old oil and gas boilers. That puts carbon in the air. Air source heat pumps use less energy and no fossil fuels at all.
By making available free heat pumps for low-income families, pensioners, and off-gas-grid properties, the government saves people’s bills and helps save the planet. It’s a double benefit.
What Are the Benefits of Installing a Heat Pump?
This is what a new air source heat pump will provide you with:
- Reduced energy bills: It consumes less energy to provide warmth for your house, thus causing your bills to decrease.
- More comfort: Maintains a warm and cosy house at all times.
- No oil or gas required: No deliveries, no price surges, and no worries about storing the fuel.
- Safer and cleaner: No carbon monoxide risk. No flames, no smoke.
- More environmentally friendly: Helps to cut down on your carbon footprint quite significantly.
And, in case you get it with an ECO4 grant, you don’t have to pay anything upfront.
What If I Don’t Qualify for ECO4?
There is still an alternative if you don’t comply with the ECO4 regulations. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a scheme run by the government. It provides users with a grant for £7,500 toward an air source heat pump. You will still have to contribute some cash, but it reduces the price significantly.
The scheme is available to a larger group of people, including non-benefit recipients. The only key rule is that your property should have proper insulation (such as a cavity wall or loft) and a reasonable EPC rating.
If you’re unsure which scheme suits you, a qualified installer can help you check.
What is Covered by the ECO4 Heat Pump Grant?
If you are eligible, you don’t only receive the heat pump. The ECO4 grant can also fund:
- Complete installation of an air source heat pump
- A new hot water cylinder, where required
- Upgrades to radiators or pipework
- Smart heating controls
- Solar panels
- Insulation upgrades (such as wall or loft insulation)
The idea is to ensure that your house is comfortable, efficient, and less expensive to operate.
How To Apply For A Free Heat Pump Under ECO4
The application is fast and convenient.
- Find an approved installer: Ensure that they are ECO4 grant-registered.
- Check that you’re eligible: They’ll ask you a few questions and perhaps need to examine your EPC.
- Arrange a home survey: This is to evaluate your energy and heating efficiency at present.
- Installation day: Provided everything is fine, your new heat pump may be installed at no charge to you.
Most installers will take care of all the paperwork for you. You only need to supply them with the documents they request.
Common Concerns About Heat Pumps
“Will a heat pump operate during winter?”
Yes! Heat pumps operate even when it’s freezing outside. The latest models have been engineered to keep pace with UK winters. Sure, they may take longer to get going than boilers, but they will keep your house warm and stable.
“Are they noisy?”
Not at all. The outside unit hums softly, like a refrigerator. There is little noise at all inside.
“Will my radiators need changing?”
Occasionally, yes. Heat pumps are most suited to larger radiators or underfloor heating. If radiators are undersized, an installer will replace them at no charge with the ECO4 grant.
The Bottom Line
The ECO4 scheme is an excellent chance for low-income families to replace old traditional heating with cleaner heating for free. Are you an oil, coal, or outdated gas system homeowner with high energy bills? It may be time to make a change.
An air source heat pump is quiet, dependable, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly. To keep your heating system running smoothly alongside upgrades, many households also use the best radiator inhibitor for long-term protection.
And, if you’re eligible for ECO4, the cost – from supply to installation – will be paid for by the government.
It’s worth considering today. Warm house. Cheaper bills. No initial charge.
