Heating Controls Grant

This grant is for installing systems that control the heat in your home.

This is probably SEAI's least useful grant, but since we cover every other kind of grant, we thought we might as well cover this one as well.

Application Process

You must apply for the grant directly with the SEAI.

1. Choose what type of grants you need

2. Find a registered contractor

3. Apply for a grant

4. Accept grant offer

5. Get works done within 8 months

6. Post-works BER Assessment

7. Grant payment request

We'll post a further blog post and video on this process soon.

Eligibility

All homeowners, including private landlords, whose homes were built and occupied before 2011 can apply, defined as the date your electricity meter was installed.

Your property will not be eligible for a Heating Controls grant if you are applying for or have previously claimed a Heat Pump System grant. This is because a Heat Pump System must incorporate heating controls as part of the grant work.

Advantages

• Energy Efficiency: Installing heating controls like thermostats and timers helps homeowners optimize energy use, reducing waste by allowing more precise control of heating systems.

• Lower Energy Bills: With more efficient heating systems, households can significantly reduce their energy consumption, lowering energy bills.

• Reduced Carbon Footprint: By using less energy, homeowners contribute to reducing their household’s carbon footprint, aligning with national and global goals to combat climate change.

• Comfort: Improved control over heating systems allows for better management of home temperatures, ensuring consistent and comfortable heating levels throughout the day.

• Increased Home Value: Enhancing a home’s energy efficiency can increase property value, making the house more appealing to potential buyers

• Compatibility: The Heating Controls Grant can be used with other SEAI energy-efficiency grants, like insulation grants, to enhance a home’s overall efficiency further.

Disadvantages

• Upfront Costs: While the grant covers some of the cost, homeowners are still required to cover part of the installation expense, which might be a barrier for some, especially if other home upgrades are needed. See the table below to understand how much you might have to pay.

• Installation Complexity: Installing heating controls may require professional installation, and some homes may need additional upgrades to their existing heating systems, adding to the complexity and potential cost.

• Technological Learning Curve: Homeowners may need to learn how to operate the new heating controls effectively, which can be challenging for those unfamiliar with modern smart thermostats or timers.

Median Costs

Here is a table that outlines the median costs. Remember from school that the median means the midpoint. Your home may be lower or higher. However, you can still use this knowledge to negotiate with your supplier.

Heating Controls

Data is based upon 40,118 homes completed through Individual Energy Upgrades (December 2023). Median is the mid-point of all the upgrade costs, where half of upgrades are less expensive, and half of upgrades are more expensive.