If you’re a homeowner in the UK struggling with high heating bills and limited income, you might be eligible for free or heavily subsidised heating control upgrades through government-backed energy schemes.
These upgrades can make your home warmer, more energy-efficient, and cheaper to run—without you paying the full cost.
What Are Heating Control Upgrades?
Heating control upgrades refer to the systems that let you manage and optimise how your home is heated, including:
- Smart Thermostats (e.g. Hive, Nest)
- Thermostatic Radiator Valves (TRVs)
- Programmers and Timers
- Zonal Heating Controls
- Boiler Load Compensation Controls
These technologies allow you to set temperatures for different rooms, schedule heating, and prevent energy waste—saving you up to 30% on heating bills.
Who Qualifies?
If you’re a low-income homeowner, you may qualify under schemes like:
✅ ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation)
Must own and live in the property.
Must receive a qualifying benefit (e.g. Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income-based JSA/ESA, etc.) or have a household income below £31,000.
Your home must have a poor Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating (typically D-G).
The property must need energy-efficiency improvements.
✅ LA Flex (Local Authority Flexible Eligibility)
Even if you don’t get benefits, your local council may refer you based on income, health conditions, or vulnerability to cold.
✅ Home Upgrade Grant (HUG) – England Only
For homes off the gas grid.
Must meet low-income criteria.
Targets homes with EPC D-G ratings.
What’s Typically Offered?
Heating control upgrades available through these schemes may include:
| Upgrade Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Smart Thermostats | Remote heating control via app, adapts to usage patterns. |
| Room Thermostats | Prevent overheating and save energy. |
| TRVs | Control radiator temperature in each room. |
| Timers/Programmers | Set heating schedules based on when you’re home. |
| Zonal Heating | Heat only specific areas instead of the entire house. |
Installers often carry out an energy assessment first, then recommend the best upgrades based on your home’s condition.
How to Apply
Check Your Eligibility Online
- Use trusted sources like:
Contact Your Energy Supplier or Local Authority
- Big energy companies like British Gas, EDF, and E.ON are obligated to deliver ECO4 measures.
- Your local council may also handle LA Flex referrals.
Get a Free Home Survey
- An assessor will check what insulation and controls your home needs.
Installation
No Benefits? Still Apply via LA Flex
Even if you don’t receive benefits, councils can make exceptions under LA Flex. If you’re:
- A pensioner on a low income,
- A household with young children,
- Someone with a health condition worsened by cold,
you may still get referred for help.
Important Notes for Homeowners
These schemes are for owner-occupiers, not tenants.
Boiler upgrades may also be included alongside controls.
All installations are carried out by TrustMark-registered professionals.
Final Tip: Act Now Before Funding Runs Out
These schemes are time-limited and run on yearly budgets. If you think you’re eligible, apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out.