If you are thinking about changing your heating system, the Conto Termico is one of the most interesting incentives because it reimburses part of the expense quickly and without having to wait years for tax deductions. With version 3.0, something has changed compared to the past. Let's see what is included, who can apply, and how it really works, without exaggerated promises.
What is the Conto Termico
It is an incentive managed by the GSE that reimburses part of the expense for energy efficiency interventions and for systems that use renewable thermal sources. What makes it different from tax deductions is the way the money arrives: a contribution paid directly into the bank account, in one or a few installments, instead of a tax discount spread over ten years. For many, this matters more than the percentage.
Which systems are included
- Heat pumps. They are the core of the incentive. Included are electric or gas heat pumps that replace an old generator, both for heating and for hot water production.
- Biomass generators. Pellet or wood stoves, boilers, and thermo-fireplaces that meet the required emission and efficiency standards.
- Solar thermal. Panels for the production of domestic hot water and, in some cases, also for heating.
- Heat pump water heaters. Boilers that replace old electric water heaters, more efficient in consumption.
Who can apply
Private citizens, condominiums, and public administrations can access it, although the rules and percentages vary depending on the applicant. For private individuals, it usually concerns interventions on existing homes, so replacement of an already present system and not new construction. A key point is this: the Conto Termico rewards those who scrap an old generator to install a more efficient one. If you want to see the heat pump models suitable for these interventions, you can find the range in the heat pumps section.
How much you recover and in what time
The amount of the contribution depends on the type of system, its power, and the climatic zone where you live, so there is no single amount valid for everyone. The general logic is that the more efficient and larger the intervention, the higher the contribution, up to a maximum cap. The advantage in timing remains the strong point: the disbursement is much faster than traditional deductions, and for smaller amounts it often arrives in a single payment instead of annual installments.
How to submit the application
The request is made to the GSE through its portal, usually after the work is completed. Invoices, technical data sheets of the installed system, and documentation proving the replacement of the old generator are required. Many installers and dealers handle the process on behalf of the customer, and in some cases it is possible to transfer the contribution to the installer as a discount on the expense. Before purchasing, always check that the chosen product meets the required technical specifications, as this is the condition that determines whether the application is accepted or rejected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Conto Termico also apply to gas boilers?
No. The Conto Termico rewards renewable sources and high-efficiency systems, such as heat pumps, biomass, and solar thermal. A traditional gas boiler is not included. For that, ordinary tax deductions apply instead.
Can I combine it with other deductions?
Generally no, not for the same intervention. The Conto Termico is an alternative to tax deductions like the Ecobonus for the same system. It is advisable to calculate which of the two reimburses you more in your case before choosing.
Do I have to scrap the old system?
For private individuals, the incentive is mainly designed for replacing an existing generator with a more efficient one. The presence and scrapping of the old system must be documented, as it is precisely that replacement that the Conto Termico rewards.