Central Heating Grants
What is Central Heating
At ECO4, we support UK homeowners and tenants in improving their home’s warmth and energy efficiency through free central heating installations offered by government-backed schemes like ECO4, GBIS, and LA FLEX. Central heating is ideal for homes without an existing system or where current heating is outdated or inefficient.
Even if you don’t meet the usual requirements, LA FLEX allows local councils to approve more households for support. Enjoy a warmer home, lower energy bills, and a smaller carbon footprint — check your eligibility today.
Understanding the ECO4 Scheme
The ECO4 scheme is designed to help UK households reduce energy costs and improve living conditions. If you’re eligible, you could receive a fully or partially funded central heating system — perfect for properties needing an upgrade to modern, energy-efficient heating. Boost your home’s EPC rating and comfort levels with little to no upfront cost.
The Role of GBIS and LA FLEX
The Great Britain Insulation Scheme (GBIS) also supports central heating upgrades for UK households in homes with low EPC ratings (D–G) and lower council tax bands. You could qualify for a free first-time central heating system as part of wider energy-efficiency improvements to lower your bills and increase comfort.
Not eligible through the main criteria? LA FLEX gives local councils the flexibility to approve applications based on factors like income, health conditions, or living situations—extending support to more households in need.
What is the LA FLEX Route?
The Local Authority FLEX (LA FLEX) route extends funding opportunities under schemes like ECO4 and GBIS to cover essential upgrades like first-time central heating. It allows local councils to support households that don’t receive traditional benefits but are still affected by low income, poor heating, or difficult living conditions.
If your local authority participates in LA FLEX, you could qualify for a fully funded central heating system—even if you’re not on government benefits. The aim is to reduce fuel poverty and improve health outcomes linked to cold homes. There are four main routes to eligibility:
Route 1 – Income-Based: Households with a total annual income below £31,000 may qualify, regardless of region or family size.
Route 2 – Vulnerability Indicators: You may be eligible if you meet at least two vulnerability criteria, such as living in a deprived area or having children on free school meals.
Route 3 – Health Referrals: A health professional can refer you if someone in your home has a condition like asthma or heart disease that worsens in cold temperatures.
Route 4 – Local Criteria: Councils and energy providers can set their own flexible rules to help residents in need of better heating and living conditions.
Benefits of Central Heating
Lower Energy Bills
A modern central heating system efficiently heats your entire home, helping reduce overall energy consumption and cut utility costs.
Consistent Warmth
Provides even and reliable heat across all rooms, eliminating cold spots and improving overall indoor comfort during colder months.
Improved Energy Efficiency
Upgrading to central heating boosts your home’s energy performance, helping you save energy while keeping your space comfortable.
Reduced Carbon Emissions
Efficient systems use less fuel, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions and supporting a greener environment.
Increased Property Value
Homes with central heating are more desirable to buyers, often resulting in a higher property value and better market appeal.
Low Maintenance
Once installed, central heating systems are easy to manage and maintain, offering long-term peace of mind and reliability.
Am I Eligible for Central Heating Funding?
You may be eligible for free or subsidized central heating installation through the ECO4 scheme if your household receives certain government benefits. This government-backed initiative is designed to support low-income and vulnerable households by improving energy efficiency and home heating. If you or someone in your household receives any of the following benefits, you could qualify:
Universal Credit (UC)
Child Tax Credit (CTC)
Working Tax Credit (WTC)
Income Support
Housing Benefit
Pension Credit (Guarantee or Savings Credit)
Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Child Benefit (with income-based eligibility)
GBIS Eligibility for Central Heating
To receive central heating support through the Great Britain Insulation Scheme (GBIS), your home must meet certain criteria. This includes having an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating between D and G, and being in a lower council tax band—A to D in England or A to E in Scotland and Wales.
If your property fits these requirements, you may qualify for funding to install a central heating system, helping to improve energy efficiency, enhance indoor comfort, and reduce your heating bills.
The Process for Applying for a Central Heating Grant
Getting a central heating system installed through the ECO4 scheme is simple and stress-free. Our experienced team is here to support you from your initial application to the final installation. Here’s how the process works:
1. Fill Out the Application Form
Begin by completing our quick and easy online form. It collects key information about your household and property to help us assess your eligibility. The process only takes a few minutes.
2. Initial Contact from Our Team
After reviewing your form, one of our friendly advisors will reach out to confirm your details and walk you through the next steps. We’ll answer any questions and explain how the grant works.
3. Home Energy Survey
A qualified energy assessor will visit your home to carry out a free survey. This helps us evaluate your current heating setup and determine how a new central heating system can improve energy efficiency and comfort.
4. Review of Grant Eligibility and Options
Based on the survey, we’ll explain what upgrades are available to you under the ECO4 scheme. You’ll receive a clear outline of any measures you qualify for—most of which come at no cost to you.
5. Central Heating Installation
Once your grant is approved, our certified installers will fit the central heating system safely and professionally. Other energy-saving measures may also be included to ensure maximum efficiency and long-term savings.
Apply Now for a Central Heating Grant
Think you might qualify under ECO4, GBIS, or LA FLEX? Apply today to upgrade your home with a free or subsidized central heating system. Just fill out our simple online form or get in touch with our team—we’re here to guide you through every step of the process and help you stay warm while saving on energy bills.