What the new government grant means for plumbing and heating businesses – and how you can benefit
Big changes are coming to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and they’re about to open new doors for plumbing and heating businesses across England and Wales. The government has just added a fresh incentive that includes £2,500 towards air-to-air heat pumps – and this is more than just another energy scheme.
It’s a smart move for your business.
If you’re already working in plumbing and heating, this isn’t something to scroll past. This is your chance to step into a growing market, win more work, and position your business as a go-to installer for the next generation of home heating and cooling systems.
Let’s explore what’s changed – and how you can use it to your advantage.
What’s changed in the boiler upgrade scheme?
The new update now includes air-to-air heat pumps, not just air-source and ground-source options. That might sound like a small technical addition, but the impact is anything but small.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Homeowners can now get £2,500 off the cost of installing an air-to-air heat pump
- These systems both heat in winter and cool in summer
- A typical install costs around £4,500 – so the grant covers more than half
- Heat batteries have also been added to the scheme
- It all forms part of the wider £13.2 billion Warm Homes initiative
What this really means is that the scheme now applies to a much broader range of homes: smaller properties, flats, places without radiators, and even homes where cooling is becoming just as important as heating. In other words, it’s a wide-open door for plumbing and heating businesses ready to offer something new.
Why this matters for your plumbing and heating business
This isn’t a side note for renewables specialists – this is a serious business opportunity for everyday plumbing and heating firms that want to get ahead.
Here’s why it matters:
You can tap into an entirely new market
Plenty of homes just aren’t suitable for a full air-source heat pump setup. But air-to-air? That’s a different story. It fits flats, smaller homes, and properties without radiators. If you’ve ever had a job where a customer wanted cooling too – this is your in.
You can offer a fast, affordable upgrade
Air-to-air systems are lower cost, quicker to install, and easier to quote for. The grant brings them into reach for homeowners who might not have considered it before. That means less resistance on price, and more jobs moving forward.
You can stand out from your competitors
A lot of heating firms are still focused on boilers alone. But today’s customers are thinking bigger – and greener. By confidently offering heat pump options, you become the business that’s ahead of the curve, not playing catch-up.
You can increase your average order value
These systems open the door to ongoing revenue. With every install, there’s the chance to add:
- Maintenance packages
- Smart thermostat upgrades
- Annual servicing
- Heat-loss calculations
- EPC support
All of these bring value to your customer – and extra income for your business.
You can get in early
This update is live now. That means the first installers who get out there and talk about it are going to pick up the first wave of interest. This is your chance to become the local expert on air-to-air systems before your competitors catch on.
Five ways to turn this into real jobs and revenue
So how do you make the most of this grant in your day-to-day business?
Here’s what to do next:
- Promote a free “grant check” consultation
Offer to look at a customer’s EPC, confirm eligibility, and check install options. It’s a great lead generator – and it builds trust early. - Add “air-to-air heat pump installation” to your website
Simple change, big impact. Most plumbing and heating websites don’t even mention it – and that’s a missed opportunity. Get found by the people who are already searching. - Train your team to talk about the product
Even if it’s just one team member, make sure someone on the ground can explain what air-to-air systems are, how they work, and what the grant covers. That confidence often seals the deal. - Sell the cooling angle
Let’s be honest – the UK isn’t exactly tropical. But those two-week heatwaves in the summer? People remember them. Add cooling into your conversations. It’s a perfect upsell. - Revisit your customer list
Reach out to:
- Customers who’ve had boiler installs or services
- Anyone who’s ever mentioned overheating or asked about air conditioning
- Landlords
- Holiday let owners
These are ideal candidates for this system – and the ones most likely to take action now.
Make the most of the grant while it’s hot
This government update isn’t just about policy – it’s about potential. The businesses that act now will be the ones that benefit most from this shift in the market.
Air-to-air systems are the right product, at the right time, with the right funding to support them.
Now’s your chance to add them to your toolkit, speak to a wider audience, and grow your plumbing and heating business with confidence.
If you’re ready to get your plumbing and heating business running smoothly, from bookkeeping and VAT to tax planning and systemising your finances, drop us a message at info@togetherwecount.co.uk. We’re here to help with all your accounting needs.