If you are wondering what has changed in ECO4, you’re definitely not alone. The ECO (Energy Company Obligation) programme has been running for over a decade. In 2022, the government introduced a new version, ECO4, which will be available until the end of March 2026.
So, what’s new in ECO4? How does it differ from ECO3? And what does this mean for you, your home, and your energy bills? ECO4 makes it easier for homeowners to access boiler grants and other heating improvements, helping to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Let’s explore it!
Quick recap: What is ECO4?
ECO4 is a government-backed scheme that helps people improve the energy efficiency of their homes. It is directed at people who are residents of low-income households and those who find it difficult to pay their heating bills.
Through ECO4, you can get help with:
- Replacing an old boiler
- Installing a heat pump
- Adding insulation (loft, wall, underfloor, roof)
- Upgrading heating controls
- Improving your EPC rating (Energy Performance Certificate)
The best part? You may not have to pay anything. If you qualify, the upgrades are fully funded by energy suppliers as part of their legal obligation to help reduce carbon emissions.
What’s changed in ECO4?
ECO4 is different from previous versions (ECO1, ECO2, and ECO3) in several key ways. Let’s go through the major updates and what they mean for households.
1. Focus on whole-house upgrades
Under ECO3, you might have been eligible for a single efficient gas boiler or insulation measures. At this moment, ECO4 moves the whole-house approach to a new stage. This includes a full home survey, which will allow the installer to recommend the most suitable improvement plan to make the property energy-efficient and raise the EPC rating.
Now, not only can you get a new boiler instead of the old one, you can also get your loft or walls insulated at one time — all in a single event. It also makes the most of your energy and money resources long-term.
2. Non-condensing boilers can be replaced
ECO4 not only permits the free replacement of old non-condensing gas boilers but also promises the installation of modern condensing ones without any payment. The scheme won’t replace modern condensing boilers, even if they’re faulty.
If you have a very old boiler (installed before 2005), you could get a free upgrade to a new A-rated model, saving money and energy.
3. More focus on heat pumps
ECO4 now encourages the use of low-carbon technology, especially air source heat pumps. If your home doesn’t have access to mains gas, a heat pump is likely the first option offered.
Heat pumps are more eco-friendly than gas boilers. They also help meet the UK’s goal of net zero by 2050.
4. Stricter rules for installers
Only TrustMark-approved installers can now work under ECO4. They must follow PAS 2035 rules, which ensure all work is:
- Properly planned
- Designed for your specific home
- Checked for quality
This protects you from poor-quality work and gives you peace of mind.
5. LA Flex is still around — but changed
LA Flex stands for Local Authority Flexible Eligibility. It allows councils to help families who don’t receive benefits but still need support.
In ECO4, councils must now:
- Stick to the new rules set by Ofgem
- Submit plans for approval
- Show clear evidence for each household supported
It’s still possible to qualify even if you’re not on benefits, but your local council plays a bigger role in checking eligibility.
6. Support for more low-income households
Under ECO4, the rules for who can apply have changed slightly. Before, mostly people on certain benefits could apply.
You may now be eligible if:
- You’re on a low income
- You have high energy bills
- You have a health condition made worse by cold homes
- You are elderly or vulnerable
This means more people can now access free home upgrades than ever before.
7. Benefits list has been updated
To qualify for ECO4 through benefits, someone in your household must receive one of these:
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit)
- Universal Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Child Benefit (income rules apply)
More people can now apply, especially those getting Housing Benefit or Child Benefit.
8. Focus on long-term fuel savings
ECO4 rewards upgrades that deliver better fuel bill savings over time. This means measures like:
- External wall insulation
- Room-in-roof insulation
- Whole-home retrofit plans
These long-term measures get more attention than minor fixes. You’ll get more useful changes that actually reduce your heating costs for years to come.
9. Support for tenants and landlords
Tenants in private rented homes can now get help through ECO4, but the landlord must give permission.
Landlords can benefit too by getting:
- Free upgrades
- Higher EPC ratings (legal requirement from 2025)
- Better tenant satisfaction
Renters can live in warmer homes, and landlords can meet new energy rules at no cost.
What improvements can you get?
Depending on your needs and home, ECO4 can offer:
- A-rated condensing boilers (for non-condensing replacements only)
- Air source heat pumps
- Full First-time Central Heating
- Cavity wall insulation
- Loft insulation
- Underfloor insulation
- Smart heating controls
- Solar panels (in some cases)
How to apply for ECO4
The process is simple:
1. Check if you qualify
Use an online form or speak to a TrustMark-registered ECO4 specialist like ECO Energy Services.
2. Book a home assessment
A qualified assessor will check your EPC, heating system, and insulation.
3. Get approved
If you meet the rules, your application is passed to an installer.
4. Installation
Work begins at a time that suits you. It’s all free if you qualify.
The bottom line
ECO4 is not just a new name; it is a major step forward in helping UK households cut energy bills and improve their homes. With new rules that focus on whole-house upgrades, heat pumps, and stricter installer standards, it’s more targeted and more helpful than ever. If you think you might be eligible, now’s a great time to apply and take full advantage of the upgrades available.
The changes are real, the support is free, and your home could be warmer, greener, and cheaper to heat for years to come.
