The First Time Central Heating Grant is a UK government initiative designed to help households without a central heating system install energy-efficient heating at little to no cost. This grant, available under the Energy Company Obligation (ECO 4) scheme, aims to support low-income households and fuel-poor homes, ensuring that every household has access to affordable and sustainable heating solutions.
If your home has never had central heating, you could qualify for a free first-time installation, helping you save on energy bills and improve your home's comfort during colder months.
What is the First Time Central Heating Grant?
The First Time Central Heating (FTCH) Grant is part of the ECO 4 scheme, a government-backed initiative that helps UK residents install modern and efficient heating systems. It covers the cost of radiators, pipework, and a new boiler or renewable heating system, replacing outdated heating methods such as electric heaters, open fires, or storage heaters.
Key Benefits of the First Time Central Heating Grant:
- Free or heavily subsidized central heating installation
- Lower energy bills through improved heating efficiency
- Reduced carbon footprint with modern heating systems
- Better home warmth and comfort in winter
- Eligibility for additional energy efficiency upgrades (e.g., insulation, smart thermostats)
Who is Eligible for the First Time Central Heating Grant?
To qualify for the first time central heating grant, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
1. Property Requirements
- The property must not have had central heating before.
- It must be privately owned or rented (landlord approval required for rented properties).
- The home must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D, E, F, or G.
- Suitable insulation measures (such as loft or cavity wall insulation) may be required before installation.
2. Income and Benefit Criteria
Households that receive one or more of the following government benefits may qualify for a free first-time central heating installation:
- Pension Credit (Guarantee or Savings Credit)
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Housing Benefit
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Warm Home Discount Scheme eligibility
Even if you do not receive government benefits, you might still qualify under Local Authority Flexibility (LA Flex), which allows local councils to help low-income and fuel-poor households.
3. Heating Requirements
- The home must currently lack a central heating system.
- The primary heating source must be electric heaters, open fires, or storage heaters.
- The property must be connected to the gas grid (for gas central heating) or eligible for a renewable heating alternative.
What Type of Heating Can You Get?
Under the First Time Central Heating Grant, homeowners and tenants can receive a fully installed heating system, which may include:
- A-rated gas boilers with radiators and pipework
- Air source heat pumps (for off-gas properties)
- LPG or oil heating systems (for rural homes)
- Smart heating controls and thermostats
The goal is to provide homes with affordable, energy-efficient heating that lowers bills and reduces fuel poverty.
How to Apply for a First Time Central Heating Grant
Follow these steps to apply for a government-funded central heating installation:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Determine whether you qualify based on property type, heating status, and household income.
Step 2: Find a Certified Installer
Work with a TrustMark-certified and ECO 4-approved installer who can guide you through the grant process.
Step 3: Schedule a Free Home Survey
A professional will assess your home’s energy efficiency, insulation, and heating needs.
Step 4: Grant Approval & Installation
Once your application is approved, a new central heating system will be installed at no cost or a heavily reduced rate.
Step 5: Enjoy Lower Energy Bills & Improved Comfort
After installation, you’ll experience a warmer, more energy-efficient home with reduced heating costs.
Why Choose a Government-Approved Installer?
Using an ECO 4-certified installer ensures:
- Professional and safe installation
- Compliance with UK energy efficiency standards
- Access to free or subsidized heating grants
- Warranties and aftercare services
Additional Energy Efficiency Upgrades Available
In addition to central heating, qualifying homes may also receive other energy-saving improvements, such as:
- Loft insulation grants
- Cavity wall insulation
- External and internal wall insulation
- Underfloor insulation
- Smart thermostats and heating controls
Conclusion
The First Time Central Heating Grant is a valuable opportunity for homeowners and tenants living in properties without central heating. This fully funded or subsidized scheme ensures that low-income households and fuel-poor homes can benefit from modern, energy-efficient heating solutions. If your home qualifies, apply today and start saving on energy bills while enjoying a warmer, more comfortable home.