With rising energy costs and the UK’s push to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, now is the perfect time to switch to eco-friendly, cost-saving solutions like air source heat pumps. But did you realize that in 2025, you can even have a free air source heat pumps?
Through government schemes such as the ECO4 Scheme and the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme, thousands of eligible UK homeowners can now benefit from free or heavily subsidized heat pump installations.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about obtaining a free air source heat pump in the UK—how they work, who’s eligible, and how to apply for air source heat pump grant through ECO4 Scheme.
What Is an Air Source Heat Pump?
An air source heat pump (ASHP) is a low-carbon heating system that draws heat from the external air and uses it to heat your home and hot water, even when temperatures are below freezing.
How It Works:
- Draws heat from exterior air.
- Compresses and elevates the temperature of heat.
- Provides heat through radiators, underfloor heating, or hot water.
Unlike traditional gas boilers, heat pumps use electricity but are highly efficient, often producing 3 or 4 units of heat for every unit of electricity used.
Can You Get a Free Air Source Heat Pump in the UK?
Yes, you can—if you qualify under specific government-sponsored schemes. In 2025, UK homeowners can take advantage of the free installation of air source heat pumps under the ECO4 and Boiler Upgrade schemes (BUS).
These grants help reduce carbon emissions, make homes more energy efficient, and fight fuel poverty.
What Are the Most Important Government Schemes for Free Heat Pumps?
Below are the most sought-after UK schemes that allow homeowners to receive free or subsidized air source heat pumps in 2025:
1. ECO4 Scheme
The ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation) Scheme benefits low-income households and households living in energy-inefficient homes. With ECO4, interested participants can receive a free heat pump installation and other work, such as insulation and smart heating controls.
Eligibility criteria for the ECO4 heat pump grant are:
- Receiving qualifying Government benefits (e.g., Universal Credit, Pension Credit)
- Low household incomes
- Poor EPC rating (E, F, or G for off-gas properties)
- Landlord permission or property ownership (for private tenants)
2. Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers homeowners across England and Wales the opportunity to receive a grant of £7,500 to install a low-carbon heating system like an air source heat pump as an alternative boiler replacement option.
Key facts:
- For homeowners in both regions.
- The home must possess a valid EPC with no outstanding insulation recommendations.
- Grant value: £7,500 (paid directly to the cost of installation)
- Controlled by your selected installer
Reminder: This grant will not pay 100% of the cost, but when combined with ECO4 or other local schemes, it can lead to minimal or no out-of-pocket expenses.
Who Qualifies for a Free Heat Pump?
You could qualify for a free air source heat pump in the UK by receiving:
- Government benefits, including:
- Income Support
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Child Tax Credit
- Pension Credit
- Low household income (certain limits apply)
- Living in an energy-inefficient home.
- No mains gas supply
- Live in England, Wales, or Scotland (with certain modifications to schemes)
If unsure, you can check your eligibility with a free assessment from BTS Grants.
How Much Does an Air Source Heat Pump Cost Without a Grant?
Without grant assistance, air source heat pump costs range from £8,000 to £14,000, which will depend on your heating needs and house size.
Here’s a rough breakdown of costs:
- Small house: £7,000–£9,000
- Medium house: £9,000–£11,000
- Large house: £11,000–£14,000
Thanks to government incentives like ECO4 and BUS, you could save hundreds or even have it installed for free.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Free Air Source Heat Pump
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
You can determine your eligibility for the Boiler Upgrade scheme or ECO4 by using online eligibility tools or by reaching out directly to professional grant providers like BTS Grants.
Step 2: Secure a Free Home Survey
Once eligibility has been determined, a surveyor will visit your home and conduct an energy performance, current heating arrangement, and insulation analysis.
Step 3: Create the Installation Plan
After receiving your approval, an installer will schedule an installation date within two to three days to complete your heat pump installation.
Step 4: Bathe in Low-Cost Heating
After installation, your new heat pump will reduce energy bills and carbon emissions.
Why Switch to a Heat Pump in 2025
Here’s why 2025 is the ideal time to spend money on an air source heat pump:
- Increased funding by the government
- Increased gas costs
- Future bans on fossil fuel boilers are pending.
- Better tech and installer availability
- Sustainable heating for future-proofed properties
As the UK government is set to phase out gas boilers by 2035, getting the switch done early gives you a head start and government money.
Air Source Heat Pump vs Gas Boiler: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Gas Boiler | Air Source Heat Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency | 80–90% | 300–400% |
| Fuel Source | Natural Gas (fossil fuel) | Electricity (renewable-friendly) |
| Carbon Emissions | High | Low |
| Maintenance | Regular servicing needed | Minimal servicing |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years | 15–20 years |
| Installation Space | Compact indoor unit | Requires an outdoor unit |
| Best Paired With | Radiators | Underfloor heating/large radiators |
Benefits of Installing an Air Source Heat Pump
- Increased Efficiency: ASHPs produce 3–4 units of heat energy for every unit of electricity consumed, resulting in enormous savings.
- Environment-friendly: Powered by renewable energy sources, carbon emissions are dramatically lower than those of gas boilers.
- Reduced Operating Costs: While electricity is more expensive than gas, high efficiency and government incentives render ASHPs more affordable in the long term.
- Increased Lifespan: Heat pumps have a longer lifespan with reduced maintenance.
- Future Proof: Adheres to the UK government’s plan to phase out fossil fuel heating.
Government Grant Eligibility: Air-source heat pumps qualify for most government grants, such as the ECO4 and Boiler Upgrade Scheme, making their installation affordable or free for qualified households.
Can I Replace My Old Boiler with an Air Source Heat Pump?
Yes! More and more homeowners are swapping old oil or gas boilers for efficient heat pumps. Your existing system might be swapped out for free if you are eligible for the ECO4 boiler replacement program.
Conclusion
2025 marks a more accessible path for UK citizens seeking free air-source heat pumps through government grant initiatives like ECO4 and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Going green with renewable heating solutions is an intelligent investment, whether to lower fuel bills or help protect our environment.
FAQ’S
Your installation might be fully funded if you qualify under the ECO4 Scheme or combine several grants.
Most air source heat pump installations take between 2 and 3 days, depending on the system and your property.
Maybe. Houses need a minimum insulation standard, and free cavity wall or loft insulation might be included.
New heat pumps are relatively quiet; most meet allowed development noise limits.
