- The Government’s Warm Front Grant scheme is now closed. Other grants and loans are available.
Warm Front Grants cover a range of improvements to your insulation or heating systems, which will be determined by an assessor when he visits your home.
Heating a home that was built since 1995 can account for around one third of the total household energy cost while water heating can amount to one quarter of the total cost. In older houses, built around the start of the twentieth century, heating can be almost two thirds of energy costs. So the savings that can result from installing an efficient heating system and proper insulation can be immense and well worth the effort.
First of all you need to find out if you are eligible for a grant.
If your grant is approved you will be visited by an assessor who will discuss the energy improvements available under the Warm Front scheme, and recommend changes to your heating and insulation systems. These improvements can cost up to a total of £3,500 (or £6,000 if oil central heating is involved). Occasionally the grant will not cover the full cost of the work. In this case, you will be advised by letter, and you will have the option of whether to go ahead with the extra work.
Some of the improvements that the Warm Front Grant can provide are:
Central heating systems
If your central heating system needs replacing, a Government approved installer will put in a condensing boiler, and up to six radiators including all valves and pipe work, providing heating in at least five main living areas. It usually takes about two days to install a new central heating system. Alternatively, (s)he may repair your existing heating system or fix your boiler. The Warm Front installer will advise you regarding the requirements for your property. Under the scheme your solid-fuel open fire could also be converted to a glass-fronted fire.
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Loft insulation
This will make your home more energy-efficient by preventing heat escaping through the roof. The installer will fit two layers of insulation in the loft, ensuring that the insulation is about 270mm thick. He will also insulate the water tanks and pipes in the loft.
Draught proofing
The installer will fit plastic strips to all windows and outside doors to prevent heat from escaping. Doors will have plastic strips fixed to the top and the two sides, and a brush fixed to the bottom. Draught proofing will not be fitted to double glazed windows and doors as it isn’t suitable for them.
Cavity wall insulation
To fit cavity wall insulation, the installer will have to drill a number of small holes into the walls, and inject them with insulation material, so there will be some noise and dust. However, the installer will refill the holes when (s)he has finished. By filling the space between your cavity walls with insulation, heat loss will be reduced.
Hot water tank insulation
The assessor will check the insulation around your hot-water tank to ensure that it meets the required standard. This will help to avoid heat loss, ensuring that the water stays hot for longer. If necessary they will recommend a new jacket.
Once the necessary work has been completed, a Warm Front inspector will carry out checks to ensure that it is of a high standard.
