Homeowners in Northern Ireland are being encouraged to get new boilers installed through the Boiler Replacement Allowance.
What is the boiler replacement scheme?
The scheme, operated by the Department for Social Development, will conclude at the end of March 2015.
So far, more than 15,800 households have been able to replace their old, inefficient boilers with new and improved appliances that provide a better fuel economy.
However, in order to ensure that replacement boilers are installed by March 31st, people who believe they are eligible to benefit from the scheme ought to make an application by December 31st 2014, the Housing Executive urged.
The Boiler Replacement Allowance offers homeowners as much as £1,000 to go towards the cost of a new central heating system. This can result in substantial savings on gas and electricity bills – the average semi-detached property will see potential energy savings of between £300 and £350 every year from a new boiler.
With wallets tight and energy bills perpetually increasing, these savings can make a real difference ton struggling homeowners.
Eligibility for the scheme
To be eligible for the scheme, you must be:
- A homeowner;
- With an gross annual household income of less than £40,000;
- And with a boiler that is at least 15 years old.
Households with an annual income of between £20,000 and £40,000 can receive a grant of up to £400 for a replacement boiler, or £500 if controls are also fitted. Those earning less than £20,000 can receive £700 for a replacement boiler and the full £1,000 if replacement controls are fitted.
A building control inspection and a fee must also be paid, and the fee is not covered by the grant.
Homeowners can use any Gas Safe installer they choose, provided they are registered to fit boilers, and all replacements must be formally approved by the Housing Executive. People who wish to convert from oil boilers to gas boilers or wood-pellet central heating systems can also receive assistance through the scheme.
The allowance does not cover back boilers, room heaters, stoves solely used for cooking or Economy 7 Heating. Gas boilers can only be replaced if a property was connected to the mains gas supply at least 15 years ago.
For further information, or to register, homeowners should email [email protected] or call 03448 920 900.
The Boiler Replacement Scheme was initially funded by the Northern Ireland Executive, with the European Sustainable Competitiveness Fund for Northern Ireland – part of the European Regional Development Fund – providing additional part financing.
People in the UK may be able to receive a replacement boiler or a grant towards the cost of this through the Green Deal or the Energy Company Obligation, depending on their circumstances.
Having trouble with your boiler?
Don’t attempt to touch any part of your boiler or central heating system if you’re unsure. Did you know? It’s illegal for anyone to use a gas appliance if they think it’s unsafe. It’s always better to be safe than sorry as you could make things worse.
Instead, call us on 0345 3192 247 and we can help. Our technical team will run through some simple troubleshooting to see if your problem can be resolved on the phone or they can book one of our friendly and knowledgeable Gas Safe registered engineers to get you back up and running as soon as possible.
