How to Get a Free Air Source Heat Pump in the UK (ECO4 & BUS Grants Explained)

August 27, 2025 Rankifly SEO Agency

Introduction

The UK government has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, and one of the most effective ways to reach this goal is through clean heating systems. To encourage households to switch from fossil fuel boilers, several grant schemes provide heavily subsidised or even free air source heat pump installations.

In this article, we’ll explore the different grant options available in 2024, eligibility criteria, how to apply, and real success stories of households who have already benefited.

Government Grant Schemes for Heat Pumps

1. ECO4 Scheme

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is the UK’s largest programme for home energy efficiency upgrades.

Funding: 100% (free installation)
Eligibility: Households earning under £31,000 annually or receiving qualifying benefits
Coverage: England, Scotland, Wales

2. Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)

Grant Amount: £7,500 towards installation
Eligibility: Available to all homeowners in England and Wales (no income restrictions)
Conditions: Property must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with no major recommendations for insulation upgrades
Timeline: Available until March 2028

3. Warmer Homes Scotland

Funding: Up to £17,500 for energy efficiency measures
Eligibility: Income and benefit based
Region: Scotland only

4. Nest Scheme (Wales)

Funding: Up to £12,000 for efficiency upgrades including heat pumps
Eligibility: Low-income or benefit-receiving households in Wales

5. Local Authority Schemes

Some councils offer additional grants of £1,000–£15,000 depending on local budgets and priorities.

ECO4 Scheme: Who Qualifies?

Income-Based Eligibility

Annual household income under £31,000
Council Tax Band A–D (England/Wales) or A–E (Scotland)
Proof required: payslips, tax returns

Benefit-Based Eligibility

Households may qualify if they receive:

Universal Credit
Pension Credit (Guarantee or Savings)
Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit
Income Support
Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)
Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
Housing Benefit
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

Property Requirements

EPC rating of D, E, F, or G
Owner-occupied or privately rented property
Must have an existing inefficient heating system (e.g., gas boiler, oil boiler, or electric heating)

Boiler Upgrade Scheme: Who Qualifies?

Unlike ECO4, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is universal—you don’t need to be on a low income or benefits.

Key Requirements

Must own the property
EPC must show no major insulation issues
Installation must meet permitted development rules (or have planning permission)
System must be installed by an MCS-certified installer

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Use online ECO4 checkers or contact an approved installer
Gather financial documents, EPC certificate, and benefit statements if applicable

Step 2: Property Survey

An installer will conduct a free survey
Heat loss calculations and technical assessments are carried out
Determines if your property is suitable

Step 3: Grant Application

For ECO4, your installer submits paperwork directly to the scheme
For BUS, your installer applies for the grant on your behalf

Step 4: Approval & Scheduling

ECO4 approval can take 6–10 weeks
BUS approval is faster (4–6 weeks)
Once approved, installation is scheduled

Step 5: Installation

Installation typically takes 2–3 days
Involves outdoor unit setup, indoor cylinder installation, and system commissioning

Step 6: Aftercare & Support

Systems usually come with a 7–10 year warranty
Annual servicing is recommended for efficiency and warranty compliance

Required Documentation

To apply for a grant, you’ll typically need:

Proof of income (payslips, tax returns, or benefit statements)
Proof of ownership/tenancy agreement
Valid EPC certificate
Proof of existing heating system (photos or energy bills)

Real-Life Success Stories

Margaret T., Cardiff – ECO4 Success

“After struggling with high heating oil costs, we discovered the ECO4 scheme through Wintak Homes. We received a free Mitsubishi air source heat pump worth £12,000. Our bills dropped from £150 to £45 monthly, and the house is warmer than ever.”

David R., Birmingham – Boiler Upgrade Scheme

“We wanted to replace our old gas boiler. The BUS grant reduced our £11,000 system cost to £3,500. We chose a Daikin system and now save £40 monthly on bills. The whole process was seamless.”

Sarah L., Manchester – Pool Heating Installation

“Wintak Homes installed a swimming pool air source heat pump. It reduced our pool heating costs by 70% and extended our swimming season by months.”

Why Apply Now?

ECO4 scheme runs until March 2026
Boiler Upgrade Scheme runs until March 2028
Energy costs are rising, making savings more valuable
Government support may reduce over time as adoption increases

Conclusion

Getting a free or subsidised air source heat pump in the UK is easier than many homeowners think.

ECO4 Scheme: Free installations for low-income or benefit households
Boiler Upgrade Scheme: £7,500 support for all homeowners
Regional schemes: Extra funding in Scotland and Wales

By applying now, you can future-proof your home, cut heating bills by up to 60%, and contribute to the UK’s net-zero targets.