Considering getting a heat pump in 2025? It may well be the best choice you make this very year. Because you might not need to pay for it all yourself.
Thanks to the UK government, schemes such as the ECO4 scheme and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, numerous homes in the UK can now claim assistance with the cost of heat pumps.
Here, we will take you step by step through how to apply for air source heat pump grants in 2025.
What Is a Heat Pump?
We’ll begin with the fundamentals. A heat pump is an eco-friendly, low-carbon heating system. It operates in the same manner as a fridge, albeit in reverse. Rather than refrigerating things, it extracts heat from the external air (or optionally the ground) and conveys it into your home to warm it.
There are two principal types:
- Air-source heat pumps: They extract heat from the air.
- Ground source heat pumps: They extract heat from the ground.
The most widely used in the UK, these systems are typically the lowest in cost to install.
Why Choose a Heat Pump?
Heat pumps are increasingly popular for several reasons:
- They’re 300 to 400% efficient. You can obtain 3 to 4 units of heat for each 1 unit of electricity.
- They reduce your carbon footprint. They don’t use gas or oil.
- They assist in future-proofing your home. Gas boilers could in the future be phased out.
The drawback? They cost £10,000-£14,000 to install, and that is why grants are such an essential help.
What Heat Pump Grants Are Offered in 2025?
There are two principal government schemes in 2025 that assist in funding the installation of heat pumps:
ECO4 Scheme
ECO4 is an acronym for Energy Company Obligation phase 4. It is a government-backed scheme for low-income dwellings and those in need.
If your house is off the gas network and if you live in an older property with an oil or LPG boiler, you might be able to secure an air source heat pump for free through the ECO4 scheme.
You could pay about £10,000 to £14,000 in the UK for a complete installation of an air source heat pump. However, if you’re eligible, the ECO4 scheme pays 100% for you.
Boiler Upgrading Scheme (BUS)
This scheme applies to homeowners in England and Wales. It provides you with a grant of:
£7,500 discount off the price for an air source or ground source heat pump. The funds directly benefit the installer.
How to Apply for a Heat Pump in 2025
Let’s now break down the entire process for applying for a heat pump under the grant.
Step 1: Check If You’re Eligible
Each scheme has its own rules.
For ECO4:
- You have to live in the UK.
- You should be an owner-occupier or private tenant.
- Your home should be low in energy efficiency (generally EPC rating D or below).
- Your home shouldn’t be connected to the mains gas.
- You would need to be on specific benefits (such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or Child Tax Credit), OR qualify under the LA Flex rules established by your local authority.
For the Boiler Upgrade Scheme:
You should own your home.
- You must have an up-to-date EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) with no outstanding loft and cavity wall insulation work needed.
- You will be replacing an oil, LPG, gas, or electric heating system.
- The system that you install should be installed by an MCS-certified installer.
Uncertain if you qualify? Companies such as ECO Energy Services can determine if you qualify for free assistance and assist you through the entire process.
Step 2: Get a Home Survey
Once you’re pre-approved, the next step is a home survey. A qualified installer will come to your place and:
- Inspect your existing heating system.
- Examine your insulation (roof space, cavity wall, etc.).
- Recommend whether the heat pump is appropriate.
- How the installation will function.
With ECO4, the house has to be “heat pump ready.” It may then need additional insulating — this will be covered in the grant in most cases.
Step 3: Accept the Grant & Installation
Provided that you qualify and the installer finds your home acceptable, you will be asked to sign for the works. They’ll take care of:
- Submitting the paperwork.
- Claiming the grant (ECO4 or BUS).
- Booking the installation date.
You won’t need to contact the government yourself. Your selected installer or energy services company will handle it all.
Step 4: Installation
Heat pump installations may be completed in 2 to 5 days, depending on the size of your home. You can also obtain:
New radiators (where necessary for low-temperature heating).
- Smart heating controls.
- A hot water cylinder (to store hot water).
- Upgrading insulation.
Installers will lay things out in advance.
Step 5: Enjoy Lower Bills and More Comfort
Once the system is installed and running, you should find:
- More uniform heating throughout your home.
- No longer running out of fuel, and no need to accept fuel deliveries.
- Lower long-term energy bills.
- Improved EPC rating if you intend to sell the property.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heat Pump Grants in 2025
Can Tenants Apply for a Heat Pump Grant?
Yes, tenants in the private sector can apply for the ECO4 scheme, but subject to the landlord’s approval. The landlord has to agree, and the installer will work in liaison with the landlord. Social tenants can be covered under alternative local schemes.
Are Heat Pumps Actually Free Under ECO4?
Yes, if you qualify for the eligibility requirements, the entire installation and purchase price for the heat pump is funded by the ECO4 grant. It covers system upgrades, smart thermostats, and insulation. You will not need to pay anything in advance or afterwards.
Is a Heat Pump Worth It?
Yes, if you’re off the gas grid, or if you’re having an old oil boiler replaced. Heat pumps are:
- Much more efficient (up to 400%).
- Better for the planet.
- Run long term (15 to 20 years)
- Backed by the government.
How ECO Energy Services Can Help
Professionals at ECO Energy Services assist householders and tenants in the UK in switching to heat pumps through government schemes such as the ECO4 scheme.
They will:
- Verify your eligibility for free.
- Schedule a home survey.
- Assist you in accessing all the funding available.
- Oversee the whole installation from start to completion.
Their objective is that efficient energy should be affordable for all, primarily for those who need it the most.
The Bottom Line
Then 2025 is the year for you if you’ve been considering making the switch to a heat pump. You can get it installed for no upfront cost, thanks to ECO4 grants and help from the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. You can save on your bills, slash your carbon emissions, and benefit from a cosy home, all for no initial outlay.
Wondering which model to go for? Choosing the best air source heat pump ensures maximum efficiency and comfort all year round.
The process is simple, and help is available every step of the way.