Understanding The Warm Homes Discount

While we may have enjoyed another warm summer, it won’t be long until the colder months return and with it, concerns for many about how they can afford to heat their homes, particularly for low-income households or those living on benefits. 

Similarly, while the move towards energy efficient methods of heating is a welcome step towards sustainability aspirations, the cost of low carbon heating measures remains a barrier for many households across the country. It’s a concern that isn’t limited to Winter either, with the transition towards clean energy a year-round consideration.

In this article, we’ll look at The Warm Homes Discount – a government incentive you may want to consider when looking at ways to save money on energy during Winter. 
 

What is The Warm Homes Discount? 

The Warm Homes Discount is a one-off discount applied to electricity bills by energy providers at eligible homes to help with the cost of energy during the winter months. The scheme opens once a year, with the 2025-2026 window running from October 2025 until March 2026 . Take a look to see if you’re eligible here and what you could receive. 

The discount supports those who may be on a low income but who have a high energy use, or those who are susceptible to cold weather-related health conditions. 

Homeowners on certain benefits can receive the discount automatically, so long as they are the person named on their electricity bill. It’s hoped that this will ensure that millions of additional  households could qualify, according to the government. 

Check if you are eligible when the Warm Home Discount scheme opens here.    
 

Ways to improve home energy efficiency for year-round comfort

Enhancing your home's energy efficiency is beneficial for both the environment and your long-term finances. Taking simple yet effective steps around your home, such as checking it is properly insulated, sealing draughts, and using energy-efficient lighting are simple yet effective steps. At the other end of the scale, adopting cleaner heating systems and technology, like an air source heat pump has been made easier and accessible through the grants we looked at earlier. 

Keeping these systems maintained and updated is also key for improving efficiency. By having your boiler serviced at least once a year, you will be able to identify problems before they escalate, which reduces the risk of an expensive repair later on. Well-maintained boilers also will not have to work as hard and waste energy in the process.

Consider turning down your thermostat, even if it’s just a couple of degrees, and only heat the rooms that you are using. Using a smart thermostat is a good way of keeping a consistent temperature that you are comfortable with and stops heat being wasted.

Low carbon heating solutions from Baxi

At Baxi, we are striving to be at the forefront of supporting the energy transition and alleviating fuel poverty. Our qualified air source heat pump installers operate across the country, so if you are looking at installing one at your property, we are here to help.

We are also working on our own sustainability initiatives, including working towards being net zero across all areas of our operation, and as part of our pledge, we’re continuing to invest in low-carbon heating products, working with the wider heating industry to meet our shared goals.