Upgrading from old electric heaters to modern storage heaters can lower your bills and make your home warmer. But before you apply for a grant, there are a few things you need to understand. These grants fall under the UK Government’s ECO funding scheme and come with clear rules. Knowing what’s required can help you avoid delays and get approved faster.
1. You must have the right type of heating
Grants only apply if your main heating system is electric. This includes outdated storage heaters, electric room heaters (including portable heaters), or wall panels. If your home still has a working gas boiler or central heating, you likely won’t qualify.
2. Your property must have a low EPC rating
To be eligible, your home must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E, F, or G. Properties rated D can sometimes qualify, but funding is limited for those cases. If you’re not sure about your rating, check the EPC register online, or alternatively enter your details on our Grant Checker and we can check for you.
3. Qualifying benefits are key to faster approval
Most successful applicants receive at least one qualifying benefit. These include Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, and others. If you don’t get benefits, you might still qualify under the ECO Flex scheme if your council supports it. This often applies to people with health conditions or low income.
4. You need a dual-rate electricity tariff
Storage heaters charge at night when rates are cheaper. You’ll need a dual-rate meter such as Economy 7 or Economy 10. If you don’t have one, you must arrange it with your energy supplier before installation. These are usually installed at no cost.
5. Old heaters must be removed and replaced
The scheme only supports full replacements. If you already have storage heaters, they must be old, broken, or inefficient. Installers must remove them as part of the grant rules. You can’t keep the old ones or apply for partial upgrades.
Switching to high-heat retention storage heaters can save money and improve comfort, but only if you qualify. Check the basics before applying so you don’t waste time. Meeting the criteria now puts you in a better position as demand grows.
6. Funding for Solar panels to provide free electricity for your home
If your property qualifies for a grant for electric storage heaters, you may also qualify for funding for solar panels to be installed, which will provide free electricity for your home. To benefit from solar panels you must own the roof of your property. If your property is leasehold, then you must have permission from the freeholder for solar to be installed.
Before you apply, it helps to know how your grant amount is worked out. The total funding isn’t random—it’s based on how much energy your home could save by upgrading your heating. Here’s what installers look at when calculating your grant:
- Number of bedrooms: More rooms mean more space to heat, which increases potential savings.
- Wall type: Homes with solid walls often get higher funding than those with cavity walls, as they usually lose more heat through the walls.
- Existing insulation: Well-insulated homes may get less funding since savings will be smaller.
- Current heating system: The less effective your old electric heating is, the more funding you might receive.
Choosing a trusted provider matters. An organisation like Energy Saving Grants works with Trustmark approved installers who know how to assess your home properly and secure the best possible grant. They’ll also make sure your application meets the latest scheme rules, so you don’t miss out.
Get help with your electric storage heater grant today
We help you apply for government-funded electric storage heater grants quickly and without hassle. If you’re eligible, you could replace old electric heaters with modern, high heat retention models—at no cost to you. We guide you through the entire process, from checking eligibility to final installation.
Call 0330 223 0333 or email info@energysavinggrants.org to speak with a team member. We’ll answer your questions, confirm if you qualify, and help you get started right away.
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FAQs about electric storage heater grants
Who can apply for electric storage heater grants?
Homeowners and private tenants with landlord permission can apply. The property must have old or inefficient electric heating. An EPC rating of E, F, or G is usually required. Some may qualify without benefits through the LA Flex Scheme.
What type of heaters qualify for replacement?
Electric room heaters, portable electric heaters, electric panel heaters and inefficient electric storage heaters qualify. New installations focus on high-heat retention storage heaters. These must meet current energy-saving standards.
How long does the application process take?
It depends on how quickly you provide the required documents. Most applications are processed within a few days. Installations can often be completed in 2 – 3 weeks once approved. Delays may occur during colder months due to high demand.
