The ECO4 scheme is part of the UK government’s commitment to improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions, particularly for those who need it most. If you’re considering applying for the ECO4 programme, one of the key questions is: what home improvements are covered by ECO4?
In this blog, we’ll take you through the types of home improvements that are eligible under the ECO4 scheme, helping you understand how the programme can benefit your home and reduce your energy bills.
What is the ECO4 Scheme?
The ECO4 scheme is an extension of the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) programme, which aims to improve the energy efficiency of homes across the UK. The ECO4 scheme focuses on providing funding to low-income and vulnerable households to install energy-saving measures, reduce their energy consumption, and lower their fuel bills.
Under the ECO4 scheme, a range of home improvements are available for eligible households, all of which contribute to making homes more energy-efficient and sustainable.
Home Improvements Covered by the ECO4 Scheme
The ECO4 scheme covers a variety of home improvements aimed at reducing energy consumption and improving home comfort. The specific measures available depend on your home’s condition, the type of improvements needed, and your eligibility. Here are the key home improvements that are covered by ECO4:
1. Loft Insulation
One of the most common energy-saving measures available under the ECO4 scheme is loft insulation. Insulating your loft can significantly reduce heat loss, which is a major contributor to high energy bills. By trapping heat inside your home, loft insulation ensures that your heating system doesn’t have to work as hard, keeping your home warmer and reducing your energy consumption.
Loft insulation is especially effective in homes that have an uninsulated or poorly insulated loft space. The ECO4 scheme can help fund the cost of insulating your loft, making it a cost-effective way to reduce your home’s carbon footprint.
2. Cavity Wall Insulation
Cavity wall insulation is another popular energy-saving measure provided under the ECO4 scheme. Many older homes, particularly those built before the 1980s, have cavity walls that are poorly insulated. This means that heat can easily escape through the walls, making it harder to keep your home warm in winter.
Cavity wall insulation works by filling the space between the two layers of your walls with insulating material, which helps to prevent heat loss. The ECO4 scheme can cover the cost of cavity wall insulation, helping to improve your home’s thermal efficiency and reduce your heating costs.
3. Boiler Upgrades
Replacing an old, inefficient boiler with a newer, energy-efficient model is one of the most effective ways to reduce your energy bills. The ECO4 scheme offers funding to replace old boilers with more energy-efficient models, which can heat your home more effectively and at a lower cost.
If your current boiler is outdated or broken, upgrading to a new one could not only save you money in the long term but also improve the overall comfort of your home. The ECO4 scheme covers part of the installation cost for eligible households, making it more affordable to upgrade your heating system.
4. First-Time Central Heating
For households that do not currently have central heating, the ECO4 scheme offers support to install a first-time central heating system. Many low-income homes, particularly in rural areas or older housing stock, do not have access to a central heating system, which can result in high energy bills and poor living conditions.
By installing a central heating system for the first time, eligible households can enjoy consistent warmth throughout their homes without relying on expensive alternatives like electric heating or portable heaters. The ECO4 scheme provides financial support for installing first-time central heating, making it more affordable for those in need.
5. Solid Wall Insulation
If your home has solid walls rather than cavity walls, solid wall insulation may be necessary to reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency. Solid walls, which are typically found in older homes, tend to lose more heat than cavity walls, making insulation a crucial part of improving your home’s energy performance.
The ECO4 scheme can help fund the cost of installing internal or external solid wall insulation, which will not only keep your home warmer but also reduce your energy bills in the long run.
6. Heating Controls and Smart Thermostats
Upgrading your heating controls and installing a smart thermostat is an effective way to manage your home’s temperature more efficiently. By giving you better control over when and how your heating system is used, you can prevent wasting energy and reduce your heating costs.
The ECO4 scheme may cover the installation of new heating controls or a smart thermostat, allowing you to fine-tune your home’s temperature and save on your energy bills.
7. Underfloor Insulation
Underfloor insulation is an often-overlooked but highly effective measure for reducing heat loss in your home. By insulating the floors, particularly in homes with suspended timber floors, you can prevent cold air from entering your living space and reduce your reliance on heating.
The ECO4 scheme may support the installation of underfloor insulation, making your home more energy-efficient and comfortable.
8. External Wall Insulation
For homes with external walls that are not suitable for cavity wall insulation, external wall insulation can be an excellent option. This involves applying an insulating layer to the outside of the walls, which can improve the thermal efficiency of the property and prevent heat from escaping.
If your home is eligible for external wall insulation, the ECO4 scheme can help cover the cost of installation, making it a practical way to enhance your home’s energy efficiency.
How to Access the Home Improvements Covered by ECO4
To take advantage of the home improvements covered by the ECO4 scheme, you need to check your eligibility and apply through an accredited energy supplier. The process typically involves:
- Contacting your energy supplier to inquire about the ECO4 scheme and determine if you qualify.
- Undergoing a home assessment to identify which energy-saving measures are suitable for your property.
- Having the approved improvements installed by a qualified contractor.
Conclusion
The ECO4 scheme provides a valuable opportunity for low-income and vulnerable households to improve their energy efficiency and reduce their energy bills. With a range of home improvements covered, including loft insulation, boiler upgrades, cavity wall insulation, and more, the scheme can make a significant difference in how efficiently your home operates.
If you think you qualify for ECO4, get in touch with your energy supplier to start the process and benefit from the energy-saving measures available. With financial support for essential home improvements, you can enjoy a warmer, more comfortable home while also reducing your carbon footprint.