Did you know there is a scheme offering free boiler replacements? Here is a look at the benefits of the scheme and the qualifying criteria that must be met.
The ECO Scheme
The ECO Scheme was launched in 2013 by the UK Government with the aim of slashing the quantity of carbon emissions from homes across the country.
Since its introduction five years ago, the scheme has undergone subtle changes to improve the quality of life of people struggling to afford heating bills. The boilers provided partly-funded or free are high-efficiency condensing boilers, which will save vast amounts of money on energy bills over the years.
Who is eligible ?
In many cases, the boiler replacement will be installed at no cost to the homeowner. However, the homeowner or private tenant may be required to subsidise replacement costs.
Any costs required are calculated during the process of eligibility screening by applying for a boiler grant online.
For the installation of a new boiler, contact a company such as http://www.hprservicesltd.com, who specialise in boiler installation Cheltenham.
The age of your current boiler and its efficiency level, along with certain benefits you receive, are considered for eligibility.
Your existing boiler will qualify for replacement if it is :
– At least 8 years old
– A non-condensing model
– Lower than 85.9% efficiency
– Broken beyond economic repair (this counts even if it is a newer, condensing model of boiler)
– Rated C and B, up to G band
The ECO Scheme was implemented to improve the lives of low-income families, and applicants for the boiler replacement grant must receive one of the following benefits to qualify:
– Income Related ESA
– Universal Credit
– Income based JSA
– Working Tax Credit
– Income support
– Pension Guarantee Credit (or both Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit)
– Child Tax Credit
You are only eligible for a grant if you own your home or are a private tenant with permission from the landlord.
Social housing tenants are currently not eligible. However, under new rules, tenants in social housing can benefit from the government’s free insulation scheme if their home is rated G, F or E in energy efficiency ratings.
Once you find you are eligible, choose a boiler engineer that is a Gas Safe, OFTEC and PAS2030 registered boiler engineer.