Understanding the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
Published: July 2026
Reading Time: 5 minutes
Homeowner discussing the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) with an Air Source Heat Pump installer.
Introduction
If you are thinking about installing an Air Source Heat Pump, you may have heard about the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). This Government initiative is helping more homeowners move away from traditional fossil fuel heating by providing financial support towards the cost of installing eligible low carbon heating systems.
Understanding how the scheme works can help you decide whether now is the right time to upgrade your home’s heating.
1. What Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a Government funded programme that encourages homeowners to replace older heating systems with low carbon alternatives, including Air Source Heat Pumps.
Rather than paying the full installation cost yourself, eligible applicants can receive a Government grant that reduces the overall cost of the installation.
The grant is applied through an approved installer, making the process straightforward for homeowners.
2. Who Can Apply?
The scheme is open to many homeowners in England and Wales.
Unlike some other Government schemes, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is not means tested. This means your household income is not used to determine whether you qualify.
Eligibility depends on your property meeting the scheme requirements and the installation being carried out by an approved installer.
3. Why Has the Government Introduced the Scheme?
The UK is working towards reducing carbon emissions and increasing the use of renewable heating technologies.
Many homes still rely on gas, oil or LPG boilers. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is designed to encourage the adoption of cleaner heating systems that can help reduce the environmental impact of heating our homes.
4. What Are the Benefits?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) offers several advantages.
It reduces the upfront cost of installing an Air Source Heat Pump.
It supports the move towards lower carbon heating.
It encourages homeowners to invest in modern, energy efficient technology.
It also gives many households the opportunity to install a heating system that may otherwise have been beyond their budget.
5. Why Choose an Approved Installer?
Choosing an experienced installer is one of the most important parts of the process.
An approved installer will assess your property, calculate your heating requirements and design a system that is suitable for your home.
They will also guide you through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) application and ensure the installation meets the required standards.
Key Takeaways
• The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) provides Government funding towards eligible installations.
• The scheme supports the installation of Air Source Heat Pumps.
• It is not means tested.
• Eligibility depends on your property meeting the scheme requirements.
• An approved installer manages the grant application on your behalf.
Did You Know?
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that they do not apply directly for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). In most cases, the approved installer applies for the Government grant as part of the installation process.
Conclusion
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is making it easier for homeowners to choose low carbon heating by reducing the cost of installing an Air Source Heat Pump.
If you are considering replacing your existing heating system, speaking to an approved installer is the best way to find out whether your property is suitable and whether you could benefit from Government funding.
Coming Next
Blog 006: Air Source Heat Pump or Gas Boiler? Which Is Right for Your Home?
Related Articles
- Blog 001: What Is an Air Source Heat Pump?
- Blog 002: Ten Reasons to Choose an Air Source Heat Pump.
- Blog 003: Ten Common Myths About Air Source Heat Pumps Explained.
- Blog 004: How Does an Air Source Heat Pump Work?
About the East of England Air Source Heat Pump Guide
The East of England Air Source Heat Pump Guide is produced by Lifetime Savings to help homeowners understand renewable heating, Government funding and the latest low carbon technology.
Our aim is to provide clear, practical and impartial information that helps you make informed decisions about heating your home and improving its energy efficiency.
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