Boiler scrappage scheme
- Boiler scrappage schemes are now closed
- What other boiler discounts are available?
- Expert boiler buying advice
Government backed 'official' boiler scrappage schemes ran in different parts of the UK from 2010 to 2013, but all schemes are now closed.
When did the boiler scrappage scheme finish?
Scotland: as of 31 March 2013 the Scottish boiler scrappage scheme was closed to new applicants.
England: on 26 March 2010, the government announced that all 125,000 English boiler scrappage scheme vouchers had been allocated and the scheme was closed to new applications.
Wales: the Wales boiler scrappage scheme is now closed to new applicants.
Getting a modern boiler could shave hundreds off your heating bill, but can cost thousands to install
Is it still worth replacing my old boiler without the scrappage scheme?
If you are thinking of replacing your old boiler to reduce your energy bills, topping up your loft insulation or getting cavity wall insulation could be a cheaper option with a speedier payback time.
The cost of heating your home, particularly during the colder winter months, makes up about 60% of your energy bills. Based on a saving of 25% gas usage, the Energy Saving Trust estimates the average saving per household on energy bills after installing a new boiler to be £310, not taking into account how much installing a new boiler will cost. According to the Heating and Hot Water Industry Council (HHIC), the average cost of a boiler and installation is around £2,500 - but costs can range significantly according to the boiler model and company you choose, and the amount of installation work required.
Are any other boiler discounts are available?
For a limited time the government is offering a 'cash back' of up to £310 if you install a new boiler under its Green Deal. But in order to qualify for the discount you may have to install other energy efficiency measures in your home, such as loft insulation or cavity wall insulation, and take out a long term loan to pay for the improvements. So it may not be the best option for all home owners.
Read our guide to the Green Deal cash back scheme to find out if its right scheme for you.
I still want a new boiler- which boiler and installer should I choose?
Before you buy, find out more about boiler prices and how to best boiler. Which? has independently reviewed over 180 different boilers and recommends Which? Best Buy boilers, plus we've reviewed some boiler servicing companies. Unlock our full boiler reviews and find the best prices by taking out a £1 trial subscription to Which?
As our 2012 snapshot investigation into boiler installation costs showed, independent boiler installers may still offer a cheaper option overall. Pete Tynan from Which? Local recommends shopping around and getting quotes from several different boiler installers.
He says: 'Ask friends and family or look on Which? Local for recommendations for reliable traders. Always get at least three quotes for boiler installation and make sure they include all costs including any call-out fees. Don't be taken in by any headline discount figures - look at the total price of the boiler and labour charges.'
- Read our boiler buying guide
- Watch our video on getting a good boiler service
- Get advice on how to cut your heating costs
