Who?s eligible for the Government?s scrappage scheme?
Households need to check that their boiler is G-rated, is in full working order and is the main boiler to heat the house, or provide hot water ? or both. Homeowners aged over 60 can apply for the scheme regardless of whether the boiler they are scrapping currently works.
How do I know if my boiler is G-Rated?
There are a few quick checks you can do at home. Firstly, if your boiler has a permanent pilot light, it is likely to be G-Rated. Similarly, if it is more than 15 years old and gas-fired, or oil-fired and over 25 years old, you?re likely to be eligible. Alternatively, check online at www.energysavingstrust.co.uk
How does the scrappage scheme work?
After checking they are eligible for the scheme, homeowners then need to arrange a quote (preferably several) for a new boiler from a qualified installer. Once this is complete, consumers should contact the Energy Saving Trust with the details from the installer to register for a voucher.
Homeowners must pay the installer in full, then send the invoice and voucher to the Energy Saving Trust to receive the ?400 grant. This will be received within 25 working days.
Aren?t energy suppliers offering the scheme as well, meaning I can get ?800 off?
Yes. Npower and British Gas are currently offering an additional ?400 off the cost of a new boiler ? call npower on 0800 0722 999 or visit www.npower.com; or call British Gas on 0800 009 4450 or go to www.britishgas.co.uk/yourboiler for more details.
This extra grant, coupled with the Government announcement, means homeowners could receive ?800 towards the cost of a new boiler, when replacing one that is G-Rated. However, consumers should still get quotes from a number of different sources, including independent plumbers, to ensure they are getting the most competitive price. Never be tempted to risk your safety by going with a plumber who is not Gas Safe registered even if they are offering a lower price.
When will the money run out?
There?s approximately four million G-rated boilers in the UK, but there are only 125,000 grants available under the Government?s scheme. Npower and British Gas? ?400 discount scheme is a limited offer and only a finite number of vouchers will be available from the Government. Therefore anyone looking to take advantage of both schemes should act quickly to avoid disappointment.
Why was the scrappage scheme introduced?
Domestic heating accounts for 14 per cent of the country?s CO2 output. A new boiler can save homeowners over ?200 off an annual gas bill compared to a G-Rated boiler - and very old boilers, unless properly maintained, can pose a health and safety risk.
How do I register for the scheme?
For more details on the Energy Saving Trust ?400 voucher call 0800 512 012 or visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
The Energy saving trust's also a good place for free cavity wall and loft insulation grants . I gave them a call 2 months back and now have 250mm loft insulation and cavity wall insulation , it only cost me ?50 as i'm working (would normally cost ?800 ) , but if you're on benefits , it's free . 
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