The ECO4 scheme has helped many households in England and across the UK. It gave energy-saving upgrades like insulation and new boilers to people who needed them. But now, many are asking: What’s next after ECO4 gov UK?
If you’re thinking about getting help with your energy bills or upgrading your home’s heating system, it’s important to understand what’s coming next. In this blog, we’ll explore the future of the ECO scheme, what to expect from ECO5, how to check ECO 4 scheme eligibility, and how long it takes to install a boiler in the UK.
Let’s break it all down.
What Was the ECO4 Scheme?
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is a government-backed scheme that started in 2013. The goal is to help low-income households become more energy-efficient. The scheme is funded by energy suppliers and run through local installers.
ECO4 is the fourth phase of this initiative. It started in April 2022 and will run until March 2026. The scheme mainly helps with:
- Upgrading insulation
- Replacing old or broken boilers
- Installing heat pumps
- Making other energy-saving improvements
ECO 4 Scheme Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
To apply for help under the ECO4 scheme, you typically need to meet one or more of the following conditions:
- You receive income-related benefits like Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or Income Support
- Your household income is below a certain threshold (usually below £31,000)
- You live in a property with a low EPC rating (D, E, F, or G)
- You’re a homeowner or private tenant with landlord permission
If you’re not sure about your eligibility, you can check with local installers or the official ECO4 gov.uk website. They’ll help guide you through the process and check if you qualify for any upgrades.
What’s Next After ECO4 gov UK?
Though ECO4 runs until 2026, the government is already planning the next phase, which many are calling ECO5.
So, what’s next after ECO4 gov UK? Let’s look at what we know about ECO5 so far.
What Is ECO5?
ECO5 will be the fifth phase of the Energy Company Obligation scheme. While not officially launched yet, discussions and plans are already in place. It’s expected to begin after March 2026, once ECO4 ends.
Here’s what we might expect from ECO5:
- A continued focus on low-income homes
- More support for renewable technologies, like heat pumps and solar panels
- Tighter rules for energy suppliers to meet carbon reduction targets
- More funding options and simplified processes for homeowners
ECO5 will likely build on the lessons from ECO4. It may offer more flexible options for people who don’t qualify now. This could include a wider range of middle-income families and renters.
The government may also increase the total budget for the scheme, aiming to reach more homes and help the UK hit its net-zero carbon goals by 2050.
Boiler Replacement in the UK: How Long Does It Take?
One of the biggest upgrades under ECO4 and likely ECO5 is boiler replacement. If your boiler is old, broken, or not energy-efficient, you may qualify for a free or discounted replacement.
But how long does it take to replace a boiler in the UK?
Here’s what you need to know.
1. Simple Boiler Swap (Like for Like)
If your current boiler is a combi boiler, and you’re getting a new combi model installed in the same location, it’s called a straight swap.
Time Required: 1 day (6–8 hours)
Process:
- Removal of the old boiler
- Installation of the new boiler
- System checks and setup
This is the quickest and easiest upgrade.
2. Boiler Upgrade (Different Type or Location)
If you are changing from a system or regular boiler to a combi boiler, or if you are moving the boiler to a new spot, it will take more time.
Time Required: 2–3 days
Process:
- Removing the old boiler and system parts
- Adding or replacing pipework
- Changing the flue position
- Installing the new boiler and system components
- Testing and flushing the system
This is more complex and may require access to walls, lofts, or floors.
3. Full Heating System Upgrade
If your home has no proper heating or has very old pipework and radiators, you may need a complete system upgrade.
Time Required: 3–5 days (sometimes longer)
Process:
- Removal of old radiators and pipework
- Full re-piping
- New boiler, controls, and radiators
- Testing and setup
This type of work is usually done under ECO grants for homes in very poor condition.
Key Boiler Installation Steps (Under ECO Grants)
Whether you are getting a boiler through the ECO 4 grants gov UK apply process or privately, the basic steps are similar:
- Eligibility Check: You contact a certified installer to see if you qualify for a grant.
- Home Survey: A technician visits your home to inspect your heating system and EPC rating.
- Proposal and Approval: The installer submits the application for ECO funding.
- Scheduling Work: Once approved, a date is booked for installation.
- Installation: Engineers come to fit the new boiler and any extras like thermostats or smart controls.
- Final Checks: The system is tested and signed off.
- Handover: You receive instructions on using your new boiler and maintaining it.
Will ECO5 Include Boiler Upgrades?
Most likely, yes. While exact details of ECO5 are not released yet, boiler upgrades are one of the most effective ways to reduce energy bills and carbon emissions.
As such, ECO5 may:
- Offer more support for switching to hydrogen-ready boilers
- Encourage the use of heat pumps where possible
- Provide hybrid solutions (gas + electric) for off-grid areas
- Focus on smart home integration with energy controls
This would continue the work done under ECO4, ensuring homes across England and the UK stay warm and energy-efficient.
How to Prepare for ECO5
You can take steps now to get ready for ECO5:
- Check your EPC rating: Homes with low ratings (D to G) are more likely to get support.
- Collect documents: This includes proof of benefits, income, or tenancy.
- Stay in touch with local installers: They often get early updates and can pre-register your interest.
- Look at your current heating system: If your boiler is over 15 years old, you may qualify for an upgrade soon.
Being prepared means you can take action as soon as ECO5 goes live after ECO4 ends in March 2026.
Final Thoughts: Planning Ahead
The ECO4 scheme is still active, and there is time to apply if you qualify. However, planning ahead for ECO5 is a smart move—especially if you’re not currently eligible.
Understanding your home’s energy efficiency, checking your ECO 4 scheme eligibility, and staying informed about updates on ECO5 can help you make the most of government support in the future.
Whether you’re looking to replace a boiler or upgrade your whole heating system, these schemes are designed to help you stay warm, save money, and cut carbon emissions.
FAQs About ECO4, ECO5, and Boiler Replacement
ECO4 runs until March 31, 2026. You can still apply for upgrades during this time.
The next phase is likely to be ECO5, a new government scheme to continue supporting energy-efficient home improvements.
You must contact an approved ECO installer who will check your eligibility and submit the application on your behalf.
It takes:
- 1 day for simple swaps
- 2–3 days for upgrades
- Up to 5 days for full heating system installations
While not confirmed, ECO5 is expected to include more renewable options like solar panels, air-source heat pumps, and better insulation systems.
