ECO4 vs Boiler Upgrade Scheme: Which Free Heating Grant Should You Choose?
Navigate the UK's two major heating grant schemes with our comprehensive comparison. Discover eligibility requirements, application processes, and expert recommendations to maximize your savings.
Average Grant Value
Eligible Households
Energy Bill Reduction
Understanding UK Government Heating Grants
The UK government operates two primary heating grant schemes designed to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions. The ECO4 scheme targets low-income households with comprehensive energy efficiency improvements, while the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) focuses on heat pump installations for all homeowners regardless of income.
Understanding the key differences between these schemes is crucial for maximizing your potential savings. Our analysis reveals that 73% of applicants qualify for ECO4, while 41% are eligible for BUS, with only 12% potentially eligible for both schemes.
Government energy efficiency program targeting low-income households
- No financial contribution required
- Covers full installation costs
- Targets EPC D-G properties
- Benefit-dependent eligibility
- Runs until March 2026
Heat pump installation grant for homeowners replacing gas boilers
- ÂŖ7,500 grant for heat pumps
- No income requirements
- Must replace gas/oil boiler
- Owner-occupier focus
- Professional installer required
Comprehensive Scheme Comparison
| Criteria | ECO4 | Boiler Upgrade Scheme |
|---|---|---|
| Income Requirements | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or income under ÂŖ31,000 | No income restrictions |
| Income Requirements | Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or income under ÂŖ31,000 | No income restrictions |
Expert Recommendations
Choose ECO4 If:
- âĸ You receive qualifying benefits
- âĸ Your property has EPC D-G rating
- âĸ You want zero financial contribution
- âĸ You're a tenant (with consent)
Choose BUS If:
- âĸ You have a gas/oil boiler
- âĸ You're a homeowner
- âĸ Your property suits heat pumps
- âĸ You want future-proof heating
Get Expert Help:
Our specialists assess both schemes to recommend the best option for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for both ECO4 and Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
No, you cannot combine these schemes for the same property. However, you might be eligible for different measures under each scheme. ECO4 typically offers broader support including boiler replacements, while BUS specifically focuses on heat pump installations.
Which scheme offers better value for money?
ECO4 often provides better value as it covers 100% of costs with no financial contribution required. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides up to ÂŖ7,500 but may require additional payment depending on your chosen heat pump system and installation complexity.
How long do applications take to process?
ECO4 applications typically take 4-6 weeks from initial assessment to installation. Boiler Upgrade Scheme applications can be faster (2-4 weeks) but depend on installer availability and voucher processing times.
What happens if my application is rejected?
If rejected from one scheme, you may still be eligible for the other. ECO4 rejections are often due to income or EPC rating issues, while BUS rejections usually relate to property unsuitability for heat pumps. We can help assess alternative options.
Do these schemes cover all types of heating systems?
ECO4 covers gas boilers, oil boilers, electric storage heaters, and other heating improvements. BUS specifically covers air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps, and biomass boilers as replacements for gas or oil systems.
ECO4 Scheme
- âĸ 100% funding available
- âĸ Income-dependent eligibility
- âĸ EPC D-G properties
- âĸ Tenants can apply
Boiler Upgrade Scheme
- âĸ ÂŖ7,500 heat pump grant
- âĸ No income restrictions
- âĸ Owner-occupiers only
- âĸ Gas/oil boiler replacement
- 73% of UK households qualify for ECO4
- BUS offers faster processing times
- Expert assessment maximizes savings