As the cost of energy continues to rise in the UK, increasing numbers of people aged over 60 are looking for ways to heat their homes without costing them too much money. Well, the good news is that the government provides central heating grants for over 60s to assist with the cost of having efficient heating systems installed. If you’re a homeowner or a private tenant who’s 60 or older, you may qualify for free or subsidized central heating under the ECO4 scheme and other funding initiatives.Here in this blog, we will guide you through all the information you require about how to apply for a central heating grant in 2025, from what makes you eligible to how to apply.
What Is a Central Heating Grant?
A central heating grant is a subsidy provided by the UK government to help eligible households install or upgrade their heating equipment. The grants form part of the overall initiatives that target fuel poverty reduction, domestic energy efficiency, and carbon emission reduction.
For those over 60, this can include the installation of free central heating, including a boiler, radiators, pipes, and thermostats—particularly if the house has no central heating before.
Why Central Heating Grants Are of Great Importance for Over 60s?
The older we are, the more susceptible we are to cold weather, particularly in the freezing UK winters. Cold homes also have severe health implications, such as respiratory issues, heart disease, and mobility problems. Central heating for over 60s is not a luxury, though—it’s essential.
The government-funded free central heating for over 60s assists in providing older people with the ability to live safely and comfortably by making low-carbon heat systems more attainable and affordable.
Who is Qualified for Central Heating Grants in 2025?
You usually must fulfill certain criteria to be qualified for central heating grants for over 60s, including:
- Be aged 60 or over
- Own your own home or privately rent it with the permission of your landlord
- Have no central heating currently, or a system that is inefficient, old, or damaged
- Be receiving specific government benefits, such as:
- Universal Credit (UC)
- Income Support (IS)
- Housing Benefit
- Jobseekers Allowance (JSA)
- Employment & Support Allowance (ESA)
- Working Tax Credit (WTC)
- Child Tax Credit (CTC)
- Pension Credit (Guarantee or Savings)
Even if you’re not getting benefits, some of the providers are flexible in their eligibility under the LA Flex rules, depending on your income and housing circumstances. It’s worth a shot!
Overview of the ECO4 Scheme
The ECO4 scheme (Energy Company Obligation Phase 4) is the new government initiative that seeks to make UK homes energy efficient. From 2022 until 2026, it is going to target low-income and vulnerable households, especially the fuel-poor.
Through this scheme, eligible individuals—most of whom are above 60 pensioners—are provided with free boiler and central heating installation, insulation, and other energy-efficient measures.
ECO4 central heating grants are provided by energy suppliers that are committed to fund such installations. It is designed to help homeowners reduce their energy consumption and carbon emissions.
What Does the Central Heating Grant Pay for?
Should you be eligible, your central heating grant could pay for the entire price of:
- A new energy-efficient boiler
- Radiators and pipework
- Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs)
- Smart or manual thermostat controls
- Potential loft or cavity wall insulation, if necessary
- External wall insulation
The all-inclusive package allows you to heat your whole house without a penny out of your pocket—a particularly worthwhile advantage for older homeowners or those in receipt of fixed pensions.
How to Apply for a Central Heating Grant if You’re Over 60
Applying for a central heating grant in 2025 is simpler than you imagine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to assist you:
- Check your eligibility
Make use of an online eligibility checker or call a registered ECO4 provider like BTS Grants – Get Your Free Boiler In UK. - Submit your application
Give your personal and property information, as well as proof of age and benefits. - Home energy assessment
A surveyor will come to visit your property to inspect it and decide what work is required. - Installation day
Once accepted, trained installers will install your new central heating system—typically in a matter of days.
How Central Heating Grants Save You Money on Energy Bills
One of the greatest benefits of having a central heating grant is the long-term energy bill savings. Inefficient or outdated heating systems can waste a great deal of energy, so you get less comfort while paying more for it.
This is how a new, energy-efficient system will save you money:
- Lower monthly payments: New boilers and heating systems are made to consume less energy to deliver the same (or superior) heat output.
- Enhanced energy efficiency: The new systems usually include smart thermostats, TRVs, and enhanced insulation that enable you to regulate heating more accurately.
- Reduced maintenance expenses: Aging systems tend to malfunction more. With a new system installation, you will be saving money on expensive repairs.
- Improve your home’s EPC rating: An improved Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) can boost your property’s value and appeal to potential buyers in the future.
By installing a new heating system with the help of a grant, you’re not just making your home warmer—you’re also securing its future against increased energy costs.
What If You’re Not Eligible?
Occasionally, users don’t qualify but are still looking for assistance. You can refer them to other options:
- Call your local council: Most councils have their own energy assistance schemes or have partnered with local installers.
- Explore LA Flex schemes: Even if you don’t receive benefits, some properties might still be eligible on the grounds of income, health issues, or type of housing.
- Apply for boiler grants or insulation grants individually if central heating is not included.
FAQ’S
Yes, pensioners over 60 may qualify for free central heating installation under the ECO4 scheme, especially if they receive benefits or meet low-income criteria.
The whole process usually takes from 2–4 weeks, depending on your location and the provider.
Not necessarily. Private tenants are also able to apply but will require their landlord’s permission.
If your system is very old or inefficient, you might still qualify for an upgrade. However, the grant is mainly aimed at homes with no current central heating.