Free Central Heating for Homes Without
If your home has never had central heating — no gas boiler, no radiators, no piped heating system — you could qualify for a complete central heating system installed for free through ECO4. This is called First Time Central Heating (FTCH).
What Do You Get?
FTCH through ECO4 includes everything:
- A new gas boiler OR air source heat pump
- Full radiator system throughout your home
- All pipework and connections
- Thermostat and heating controls
- Gas connection (if not already connected)
This is typically worth £3,000-£7,000 — all at zero cost to you.
Who Qualifies?
You need:
- No existing central heating — your home currently relies on electric heaters, storage heaters, open fires, or similar
- Qualifying benefits — Universal Credit, Pension Credit, JSA, ESA, Income Support, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, or Working Tax Credit
- EPC rating of D or below (most homes without central heating are E, F, or G)
Homes That Typically Qualify
- Older properties with only electric storage heaters
- Homes using portable electric heaters
- Properties with open fires or solid fuel stoves as the only heating
- Homes with old, disconnected back boilers
- Properties never connected to the gas network
How Much Can You Save?
Switching from electric heating to central heating saves £900 or more per year. Electric heating is the most expensive way to heat a home — central heating can cut your bills by 50-70%.
Gas or Heat Pump?
If your home is on the gas grid, you'll typically get a gas boiler system. If you're off-grid, you may get an air source heat pump instead. Both are equally effective — your installer will recommend the best option for your property.
The Application Process
- Check eligibility using our free checker
- A surveyor visits to assess your home (free)
- They design the heating system layout
- Installation typically takes 2-3 days
- You enjoy central heating for the first time!
Don't Wait
FTCH is one of the highest-value ECO4 measures. The scheme runs until December 2026 but funding is limited. If your home has no central heating, check your eligibility now.