Boiler scrappage kicks in

The boiler scrappage scheme kick in today. The move is expected to help 125,000 households upgrade to an energy efficient boiler, which will reduce carbon, save money on energy bills and safeguard jobs in boiler manufacturing and installing.

Tom Lyon, energy expert at uSwitch.com, says: "The Government is moving very quickly on this scrappage scheme and energy companies are getting on board with it too. British Gas has already announced that it will be matching the £400 scrappage fee so consumers can save £800 in total. This is very welcome news, however consumers should still get quotes from a number of different sources, including independent plumbers, to ensure they are getting the most competitive price. Consumers should also never be tempted to risk their safety by going with a plumber who is not Gas Safe registered even if they are offering a lower price.

"Inefficient boilers contribute significantly to household carbon emissions. In addition, installing a modern energy efficient boiler can save households up to £235 a year on heating bills. With the average boiler lifespan of 15 years this is a substantial saving on energy bills which means the boiler could pay for itself.

"Heating and hot water accounts for over 60% of the average household energy bill. In total, people can expect to pay £1,239 a year on energy - heating and hot water accounts for £756 of this so it makes absolute sense to focus energy efficiency efforts here where people have the most to gain. Hopefully as a result of today's announcement we will start to see people looking to take advantage of the boiler scrappage scheme."