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How ECO4 Scheme Can Help To Replace An Old Oil Boiler?
Replacing an old boiler with a more energy-efficient heating system through ECO4 scheme is a smart move for homeowners looking to reduce energy bills, save space, and lower their carbon footprint. Oil boilers are not only less efficient than modern alternatives but also contribute significantly to carbon emissions. Fortunately, government-backed free boiler scheme like ECO4 and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme are available to help UK homeowners make the switch at free of cost. In this blog, we’ll explore how these free boiler schemes work, who is eligible, and how they can benefit you.
Why Replace Old Oil Boiler?
Oil boilers are outdated, inefficient, and costly to run. They take up significant space and are far less environmentally friendly compared to modern heating systems like combi boilers or heat pumps. By upgrading your heating system, you can:
- Improve energy efficiency: Modern boilers and heating systems are designed to use less energy while providing the same level of warmth.
- Reduce carbon emissions: Oil boilers produce twice as much carbon as combi boilers, making them a poor choice for Eco-conscious homeowners.
- Save on energy bills: Newer systems like combi boilers or ideal boilers are more cost-effective to operate, leading to long-term savings.
- Free up space: Combi boilers or ideal boilers are compact and take up far less room than bulky oil boilers.
With the help of ECO4 scheme, upgrading your heating system can be more affordable than you think.
Oil Boiler Replacement Under ECO4 Scheme
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme is a government initiative aimed at helping low-income households improve their home’s energy efficiency. One of the key measures under ECO4 scheme is the replacement of old, inefficient oil boilers with modern, energy-efficient alternatives like A-rated combi boilers or ideal boilers.
How ECO4 Scheme Works?
ECO4 scheme requires large energy companies in the UK to fund energy efficiency improvements for eligible households. By replacing your old oil boiler under this scheme, you can:
- Improve your home’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating.
- Reduce your carbon footprint.
- Lower your energy bills.
Will ECO4 Scheme Cover the Full Cost?
Yes! ECO4 scheme can cover the entire cost of replacing your oil boiler. However, partial funding may also be provided depending on your household income and specific circumstances.
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Who Is Eligible For ECO4 Scheme?
To qualify for ECO4 funding for a new boiler, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be a homeowner or private tenant with landlord permission.
- Your property must have an EPC rating of D, E, F or G.
- You must fall under the low-income category and meet one of the following conditions:
- Receive government benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Income Support.
- Receive Child Benefit and have a household income below the specified thresholds (see table below).
If you meet these criteria, you could be eligible for free boiler grant under ECO4 scheme.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme: An Alternative for Oil Boiler Replacement
While ECO4 scheme focuses on replacing oil boilers with combi boilers, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme takes a different approach. This scheme provides funding for homeowners in England to replace oil boilers with low-carbon heating systems like air combi boilers or ideal boilers. Here are some key Features of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme:
- Funding Amounts:
- Up to £7,500 for air source or ground source heat pumps.
- Up to £5,000 for energy efficient boilers.
- Extended Deadline: Originally set to end in 2025, this scheme has been extended to 2028.
- Eligibility: Homeowners in England who meet the criteria can easily apply thorough Cozyfy.
Who Is Eligible For Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
To qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you must:
- Be a homeowner in England or Wales.
- Have an old and inefficient oil boiler.
- Live in an energy-inefficient home.
- Not have received funding through other schemes like ECO4.
This scheme is ideal for homeowners looking to transition to renewable heating solutions and further reduce their carbon footprint.
How to Apply for ECO4 Scheme or Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
Applying for these schemes is very simple and straightforward. Here’s how you can apply:
- Check Your Eligibility: Use our online eligibility checker to determine if you qualify for ECO4 scheme or the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
- Gather Required Information: Have details about your household income, benefits, and property’s EPC rating ready.
- Submit Your Application: Fill out Cozyfy’s quick application form, which typically takes less than a minute.
Conclusion
Replacing an oil boiler with a modern, energy-efficient combi boiler or ideal boiler is a win-win for your wallet and the environment. With government-backed schemes like ECO4 scheme and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, the cost of upgrading your heating system can be covered entirely.
If you’re a low-income homeowner or live in an energy-inefficient property, now is the perfect time to explore these new boiler grants. Not only will you enjoy lower energy bills and a more comfortable home, but you’ll also be contributing to the UK’s Net Zero targets.
Take the first step today by checking your eligibility and applying for the right scheme for your needs. Your journey to a greener, more efficient home.
Frequently Asked Question!
- ECO4 scheme focuses on helping low-income households replace inefficient boilers, including oil boilers, with modern condensing boilers like combi boilers. It prioritizes those on certain benefits.
- Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers grants for homeowners in England and Wales to switch to low-carbon heating systems like heat pumps (air source or ground source) and biomass boilers. It’s open to a wider range of homeowners but focuses on renewable technologies.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides funding for:
- Air source heat pumps
- Ground source heat pumps
- Biomass boilers
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers:
- Up to £7,500 for air source or ground source heat pumps.
- Up to £5,000 for biomass boilers.
Replacing your oil-fired boiler offers several benefits:
- Improved energy efficiency, leading to lower energy bills.
- Reduced carbon emissions, contributing to a greener environment.
- Space saving, as modern systems are often more compact.
- Increased home comfort.
Typically, the installer will decommission and dispose of your old boiler in an environmentally responsible manner.