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Gas boiler ban
In November 2020, the government caused some confusion among heating providers and homeowners when they announced that the ban on natural gas boilers in new build homes would come into effect in 2023 instead of 2025. However, it seems that these plans have since been retracted. Here’s everything you need to know about the gas boiler ban and whether you need to replace your heating system.
Homeowners won’t need to replace their boilers imminently
In October 2021, the government confirmed that new boiler installation would cease in 2035. Domestic and commercial property owners will use low-carbon heating systems such as air-source heat pumps instead.
While 2035 seems a long way away, in terms of your heating system, it may not be that far. The eventual gas boiler ban means that if your system is likely to need replacing in the next ten years, it may be prudent to invest in a low-carbon alternative sooner rather than later, ensuring you’re ready for the changes and that you could also take advantage of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which offers grant funding for heat pump installation until 2025.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme
Heat pumps typically cost between £7,000 and £19,000, depending on the type of heat pump you choose (air source or ground source), the model, and installation costs. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a grant that offers up to £5,000 to those investing in an air-source heat pump and up to £6,000 to those who opt for a ground-source heat pump.
To apply for the funding, you need to meet specific criteria, and the money is issued to your MCS certified installer, who will deduct the value of the grant from your final bill. Your heating engineer will talk you through the process.
How will new builds be heated?
If you’re a building developer, contractor or architect, you may be asking, “When will gas boilers be banned for new builds? The government’s Future Homes Standard requires all new builds to have low-carbon heating systems instead of gas boilers from 2025 – not 2023, as announced previously. This will help the country achieve its net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050.
According to New Scientist, only 42,779 heat pumps were installed in 2021, and the government wants to increase this figure to 600,000 by 2028.
Can I still get a gas boiler?
If your boiler is at the end of its lifespan, you can still invest in a new one. Replacing an old boiler will reduce your overall emissions, as it will be more efficient, meaning less heat energy is wasted. Boilers over eight years old, break down regularly or are expensive to run, and should be replaced as quickly as possible.
If you’re looking for reputable boiler installers in Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex, Dorset, south London, Berkshire and Wiltshire, get in touch with Aura Heating today. With our range of new boiler offers, replacing yours could be cheaper than you think.
