Replacing an ageing gas or oil boiler can be expensive, particularly when you're considering a different type of heating system. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) helps eligible property owners in England and Wales reduce the upfront cost of installing low-carbon heating.

Instead of paying the full installation price, you may receive a government-backed discount through an approved installer.

What Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a government grant programme that supports a switch from conventional heating to eligible heat pumps or, in limited circumstances, biomass boilers.

Despite its name, the scheme does not pay for a replacement gas boiler. Its purpose is to make lower-carbon heating more affordable.

The grant is installer-led. An MCS-certified installer applies to Ofgem on your behalf, and the approved amount is deducted from your installation quote and invoice.

How Much Can You Get in 2026?

The current standard grants are:

• £7,500 towards an eligible air-to-water heat pump.

• £7,500 towards an eligible ground source or water source heat pump.

• £2,500 towards an eligible air-to-air heat pump in a residential property.

• £5,000 towards a qualifying biomass boiler.

Until 31 March 2027, eligible off-gas-grid properties currently heated by oil or LPG may receive £9,000 towards an air-to-water or ground source heat pump.

Your installer must confirm the specific grant category applicable to your property.

Who Might Qualify?

You will generally need to own a property in England or Wales and be replacing eligible existing heating, such as gas, oil, LPG or conventional electric heating.

The programme can also cover certain rental properties, second homes and business premises.

However, social housing and most new-build properties are excluded, and properties that have already received public funding for a heat pump or biomass boiler may not qualify again.

An important 2026 change is that a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is no longer mandatory for applications made from 28 April 2026.

Installers still need suitable evidence about the property and existing heating system.

Is a Heat Pump Right for Your Home?

An air source heat pump extracts warmth from outside air and transfers it into your heating system.

Ground source systems draw heat from the ground and usually require more outdoor space and groundwork.

Both can provide efficient heating when designed for the building.

Before committing, ask for:

• A professional heat-loss survey.

• An explanation of radiator or hot-water-cylinder changes.

• A realistic estimate of electricity consumption.

• A written breakdown of installation costs.

Actual running costs depend on insulation, electricity tariffs, system design and the heating system being replaced.

How Do You Start?

Begin with an eligibility discussion and a quote from an MCS-certified installer. Compare the full installation price, the grant discount and the final amount payable.

You can explore the boiler upgrade scheme with Berks Insulation for guidance on available support and your next steps.

Final Thoughts

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme can make modern heating significantly more accessible, but the right decision depends on your home, budget and installation design.

Check current eligibility, understand your quote and choose a qualified installer before moving forward.