ECO4 Boiler Scheme

Are you concerned about rising energy bills and the environmental impact of your home heating system? Then look no further than the ECO4 Boiler Scheme, a government initiative empowering UK households to upgrade to sustainable and energy-efficient heating solutions. 

A 2022 study by the Energy Saving Trust found that around 14 million homes in the UK are eligible for the ECO4 Scheme, representing 40% of all households.

This detailed blog post delves deep into the ECO4 Boiler Scheme, providing everything you need to know about reducing your carbon footprint, alleviating fuel poverty, saving money on energy bills, and enjoying a warmer, more comfortable home.

What is the ECO4 Boiler Scheme?

The ECO4 Scheme is a government-backed program aimed at tackling fuel poverty and reducing carbon emissions in UK homes. This initiative helps eligible households, particularly those with low incomes, install energy-efficient heating systems through financial grants. By participating in the ECO4 Scheme, you can upgrade from an outdated, inefficient non-condensing boiler to a modern, eco-friendly condensing model, reaping a multitude of benefits for your wallet and the planet.

What Heating Systems Are Covered by the ECO4 Scheme?

The ECO4 Scheme offers flexibility in choosing your ideal green heating solution, catering to diverse preferences and property types. Here’s a breakdown of the heating systems covered:

High-efficiency Gas Boilers:

• Boasting an A or B efficiency rating, these modern boilers significantly reduce gas consumption and lower bills.
• Ideal for those who prefer the familiarity of gas heating and have suitable flue venting for installation.

Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs):

• Eco-friendly champions, ASHPs extract heat from the air outside, even in chilly temperatures.
• Perfect for well-insulated homes and offering renewable warmth, they require minimal maintenance and have lower running costs.

First Time Central Heating System:

• The ECO 4 Boiler scheme often extends its coverage to central heating systems, including the associated components such as radiators, pipes, and controls. Upgrading or optimizing these components for improved efficiency may be eligible for support.

Biomass Boilers:

• For a carbon-neutral choice, biomass boilers burn wood pellets or similar fuels, providing warmth with environmentally friendly credentials.
• Ideal for those with access to fuel storage and willing to handle potential maintenance needs.

Additional Options

While not always officially listed, the scheme can sometimes cover:

• Electric Storage Heater Upgrades: Replacing inefficient models with high heat retention storage heaters can improve efficiency and comfort.
• Solar Photovoltaics (PV): In electrically heated homes, solar PV may be installed alongside certain other upgrades to maximize renewable energy usage.

Am I Eligible for the ECO4 Boiler Scheme?

The Government has allocated £4 billion of funding to the ECO4 scheme and several changes were made to the eligibility criteria.

In order to qualify for the ECO4 Grant, you must meet the below criteria;

• Homeowners or private tenants
• Households with low incomes who receive certain benefits, including

Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)	Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Income Support (IS)	Pension Credit Guarantee Credit (PCGC)
Working Tax Credit (WTC)	Child Tax Credit (CTC)
Universal Credit (UC)	Universal Credit (UC)
Pension Credit Savings Credit (PCSC)	Child Benefit

•  Property eligibility:

1. Properties with an EPC rating of lower D, E, F, or G.
2. Properties with inefficient heating systems may also be eligible.

A survey by Citizens Advice in 2023 found that lack of awareness was the biggest barrier for eligible households, followed by confusion about the application process and concerns about upfront costs.

EPC Rating: Your Home’s Energy Performance Snapshot

What it is: An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is a document that rates your home’s energy efficiency on a scale of A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It considers factors like insulation, heating systems, and energy usage.

How it’s obtained: An accredited energy assessor surveys your home to generate the EPC.

Why it matters: Indicates potential energy savings and carbon emissions reductions. Required for selling or renting a property in the UK. Crucial for determining eligibility for energy-saving schemes like ECO4.

Installing greener heating systems Via ECO4 Boiler Scheme

The focus of ECO4 is on the replacement of outdated boilers with more environmentally friendly alternatives. In alignment with the national objective of achieving net zero emissions by 2050, the ECO3 initiative already excluded coal-fueled heating systems. ECO4 will uphold this policy while expanding the exclusion list to include oil- and LPG-fueled heating systems.

Under the new scheme, the government encourages individuals to transition to greener alternatives for their heating needs, particularly emphasizing the adoption of heat pumps and biomass boilers. Additionally, ECO4 continues the installation of solar photovoltaics (PV) in all electrically heated homes.

How Do I Apply for the ECO4 Scheme?

Applying for the ECO4 Scheme is a straightforward process:

• Check your eligibility: You can check your eligibility here to confirm whether you qualify for the ECO4 boiler scheme or not.
• Find an ECO4 installer: Locate qualified installers in your area who are certified to work under your chosen scheme. Additionally, you can choose us to complete all the paperwork on your behalf till the installation for boiler free grant.
• Home Energy Assessment: Our energy surveyor will visit your home to evaluate your boiler and energy efficiency. This assessment is crucial for determining your eligibility and grant amount. 
• Submit an application: We will guide you through the application process, submitting the necessary paperwork to the energy supplier.
• Get approved: Upon approval, we will schedule a date for the new boiler installation and you’ll begin enjoying the benefits of your new, eco-friendly heating solution.

A survey by the National Energy Action in 2022 found that 95% of homeowners and private tenants who had upgraded their heating system under the ECO4 Scheme were satisfied with the results, with improved comfort and reduced energy bills being the key benefits cited.

Benefits of Upgrading to a Sustainable Heating System under the ECO4 Scheme

Participating in the ECO4 Scheme offers a multitude of advantages:

Energy Efficiency and Reduced Carbon Footprint

Upgrading to an ECO4 Boiler System translates to a significant reduction in energy consumption and, consequently, a lower carbon footprint. These advanced systems are designed to maximize efficiency, ensuring that every unit of energy is utilized effectively. By making this switch, homeowners and private tenants contribute to the collective effort to combat climate change.

Cost Savings on Energy Bills

One of the compelling incentives for embracing the ECO4 Boiler Scheme is the potential for substantial cost savings on energy bills. These systems operate with enhanced efficiency, leading to reduced energy consumption and, subsequently, lower monthly expenses. Homeowners and private tenants can witness a tangible financial impact while simultaneously aligning with sustainable living practices.

Long-term Environmental Benefits

Beyond immediate cost savings, the long-term environmental benefits of adopting the ECO4 Boiler Scheme are noteworthy. The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions contributes to the preservation of natural resources and biodiversity. As more households transition to sustainable heating systems, the cumulative positive impact on the environment becomes increasingly significant.

Improved Home Value and Marketability

Investing in eco-friendly home improvements, such as an ECO4 Boiler System, can elevate the overall value of your property. With an increasing number of homebuyers prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainability, having a green heating system can make your home more attractive and marketable in the real estate landscape.

When will ECO4 grants be accessible?

The ECO4 scheme runs until March 2026, offering fantastic grants for upgrading your home heating system to a more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly model. Whether you’re aiming for a cosy air source heat pump or a high-efficiency gas boiler, an ECO4 Boiler grant can significantly reduce the cost of installation.

To be eligible for a grant under the ECO4 Boiler scheme, it is essential to apply through a registered installer, and Grant Boilers is your good-to-go companion in securing a grant.  Certified Registers like us possess the necessary access to the grant scheme and can efficiently submit applications on behalf of applicants.

If you believe you meet the criteria for an ECO4 grant, reach out to us today. Our dedicated team is ready to offer further guidance and assistance. We streamline the entire process, ensuring a stress-free and straightforward experience for you. Throughout the journey, we stand ready to provide any advice and support you may require. Don’t hesitate to get in touch to explore the possibilities of securing an ECO4 Boiler grant with us.

Energy Companies offer ECO

All gas and electricity companies with more than 150,000 customers are obliged to fit ECO measures. As it stands, the list of energy suppliers includes:

British Gas	E.ON
Ecotricity	EDF
ESB Energy	Octopus Energy
Outfox The Market	OVO Energy
SO Energy	The Co-Operative Energy
Scottish Power	Shell Energy
The Utility Warehouse	Utilita Energy

You don’t have to contact your current energy supplier, either – simply opt for the company that best suits your needs.

Taking the First Step Towards a Sustainable Future

Experts have suggested that the recent energy crisis could push 8.5 million households into fuel poverty, meaning they’ll struggle to heat or power their homes.

The ECO4 Boiler Scheme presents a remarkable opportunity to embrace a greener, warmer future for your home. By understanding the details, weighing the options, and utilizing available resources, you can make an informed decision and join the growing movement towards sustainable heating. Remember, every step counts, and your commitment to eco-friendly solutions can create a ripple effect of positive change for both your home and the planet. So, take the first step, delve deeper into the ECO4 Scheme, and unlock the door to a sustainable, cosy future.

The Energy and Climate Change Committee estimates that the ECO4 Scheme could help reduce UK carbon emissions by up to 1.5 million tonnes per year by 2028.

If you think you’re eligible for the ECO scheme, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with us and secure your grant for a boiler upgrade.