Replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones is a smart investment. New double-glazed windows not only improve a home’s curb appeal but also reduce the cost of energy bills. Of course, replacing windows takes money. Fortunately, grants and rebates can help make new windows affordable.
Since the government wants to encourage homeowners to make energy-efficient upgrades to their homes, there is a range of grant schemes to consider. Let’s explore these programs and the many benefits of replacing old windows. If you’re interested in replacing windows, there are many reasons to do it now.
Yuriy Golub/ShutterstockWhy Replace Windows With Double-Glazed Ones
Double-glazed windows have two panes of glass with a layer of air or gas in between.1 This layer of air or gas acts as insulation, which reduces heat transfer through the window. This means that double-glazed windows are more energy-efficient than single-pane windows.
As a result, double glazing can help reduce heating costs in the winter and cooling costs in the summer. Additionally, double-glazed windows can help increase the home’s value, curb appeal, and safety. In short, upgrading to double glazing can be worth it in several ways.
Financial and Environmental Benefits
Replacing old windows with double-glazed ones offers a range of financial and environmental benefits to homeowners. For example, the Energy Saving Trust estimates that replacing single-glazed windows with double-glazed ones can save homeowners up to £235 on their energy bills per year.2 Additionally, double-glazed windows can also increase a home’s value by up to 10% and make it easier to sell.3
Apart from the financial benefits, double glazing also offers environmental benefits. By upgrading their windows, for instance, homeowners can reduce their home’s carbon footprint by 6%.4 So, investing in double glazing is a way to contribute to a more sustainable future. Overall, replacing old windows makes sense financially and environmentally.
Grants and Rebates for New Windows
The government provides several grants and rebates to homeowners who want to replace their old windows with energy-efficient ones. The amount of funding available varies depending on the program, location, and eligibility criteria. Here’s a snapshot of grants and rebates for new windows.
Energy Company Obligation 4 (ECO4)
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is a program that requires energy suppliers to provide funding to improve the energy efficiency of households in the UK. This program can help eligible homeowners replace their old windows with energy-efficient ones at no cost or a reduced cost. As part of the Warm Home Discount (WHD) scheme, it helps eligible homeowners who receive benefits like Universal Credit and Income Support.5
Local Authority Grants and Rebates
Some local authorities in the UK provide grants and rebates to homeowners who want to make energy-efficient upgrades to their homes. These grants can be used for home improvements like window replacements, insulation, and other energy-saving measures. The amount of funding available and the eligibility criteria vary depending on the local authority.6
If you aren’t eligible for those grants and rebates, then keep in mind that those are only the beginning. There are other ways to make replacement windows affordable.
Loans and Other Funding Schemes
UK homeowners have several possible ways to rescue the cost of replacing windows. For instance, here are some other possible programs that provide financial assistance for energy-efficient home improvement projects.
- Barclays Greener Home Reward: This scheme is designed for homeowners with a Barclays residential mortgage. It provides at least £500 for a range of energy-efficient improvements, including replacement windows. Homeowners must meet specific criteria like the replacements being for a primary residence.7
- Green Deal Loan Scheme: This is a government-backed initiative that provides loans to fund energy-saving home improvements. The Green Deal is a loan that must be repaid, but it’s a valuable tool for lowering the upfront cost. It can help with improvements like double glazing, insulation, and heating.8
- Green Home Funding Schemes: Energy supplier E.ON provides a Green Homes Grant Finder to make it easy for homeowners in England to find loans and grants. It’s a handy tool homeowners can use to find funding for home improvements like double-glazed windows and solar panels.9
By looking into the full range of possible grant, loan, and funding schemes available, homeowners can make sure they don’t leave any savings on the table.
The Bottom Line
Replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones is a smart investment that can save homeowners money on energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint. There are several grants and rebates to help qualifying homeowners make the upgrade.
Taking advantage of these programs is a great way for homeowners to save money and contribute to a more sustainable future. The benefits of double-glazed windows make them an excellent investment that can improve the quality of life for homeowners and make a positive impact on the world.