ECO‑4 Boiler Grants in Wales: What You Can Get for Free

If you’re a homeowner or private tenant in Wales struggling with high energy bills or living in a home with an inefficient heating system, the ECO‑4 Boiler Grant could be a game-changer. Under the UK Government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, eligible households can access free energy efficiency upgrades, including boiler replacements, first-time central heating, and even insulation — all designed to keep your home warm while reducing energy costs.

What is the ECO‑4 Scheme?

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is a government-backed energy efficiency scheme that requires major energy suppliers to help households lower their carbon emissions and reduce heating bills. The current phase, ECO‑4, runs from April 2022 to March 2026, with funding provided by major UK energy companies.

In Wales, the ECO‑4 scheme focuses on:

• Replacing old, inefficient heating systems

• Installing first-time central heating

• Improving insulation

• Supporting low-income and vulnerable households

The goal is to reduce fuel poverty, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and futureproof homes against rising energy costs.

What’s Covered Under ECO‑4 in Wales?

1. Free Boiler Replacement

If your boiler is old (typically 10+ years) and inefficient, ECO‑4 could fully fund the installation of a new A-rated condensing boiler. This helps you:

• Save hundreds of pounds annually on heating bills

• Reduce your home’s carbon footprint

• Improve your EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating

This is especially beneficial for properties using electric heaters, coal fires, or back boilers.

2. First-Time Central Heating

Homes with no previous central heating system (for example, using electric heaters or open fires) may qualify for a completely new heating setup. This includes:

• Boiler unit

• Radiators

• Piping and thermostatic controls

All funded through ECO‑4, meaning you could receive the entire system free of charge if you qualify.

3. Heating Controls & Smart Thermostats

Upgraded heating systems often come with modern controls to help manage your energy use efficiently. These may include:

• Smart thermostats

• TRVs (thermostatic radiator valves)

• Programmers and timers

These upgrades allow you to heat your home smarter, ensuring comfort without overspending on energy.

4. Insulation Measures

Though the scheme is widely known for boiler upgrades, insulation is often bundled in to maximise energy savings. Available options include:

• Loft insulation

• Cavity wall insulation

• Room-in-roof insulation

• Floor insulation

Better insulation means your new boiler won’t need to work as hard to keep the house warm, further reducing your energy bills.

5. Low-Carbon Heating Systems

In some cases, especially off the gas grid, households may be eligible for renewable heating options such as:

• Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP)

• Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels

• High heat retention storage heaters

These upgrades support Wales' transition to net zero emissions while lowering your home’s energy consumption.

How Much Can You Save?

Depending on your property and heating system, the ECO‑4 scheme could save you £300–£600 per year in energy bills. Here’s how:

These savings stack up especially during the colder months in Wales when heating demand is high.

Who Qualifies for ECO‑4 in Wales?

Eligibility for ECO‑4 is based on a combination of income level, benefit status, and property energy efficiency.

You may qualify if:

• You live in Wales

• You own your home or are a private tenant

• Your home has a low EPC rating (D, E, F, or G)

• You or someone in your household receives means-tested benefits, including:

  • Universal Credit

  • Pension Credit

  • Housing Benefit

  • Income Support

  • Child Tax Credit

  • ESA or JSA

• You have a combined annual income under £31,000 (even without benefits)

• You have a health condition affected by cold or damp housing

Note: If you're not sure about your EPC rating, you can look it up for free via the official UK EPC register.

What if I Don’t Receive Benefits?

You may still qualify through the Flex route if your local council identifies you as vulnerable or fuel-poor due to:

• Low income

• Poor health

• High energy bills

• Living in a rural or hard-to-heat home

Each local authority has its own flexible eligibility rules, so it’s worth checking directly with your council or a registered installer.

How to Apply for an ECO‑4 Boiler Grant

Getting started is easier than you might think:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Use an online eligibility checker or speak to an approved ECO‑4 installer. They’ll assess your circumstances, current heating system, and EPC rating.

Step 2: Book a Free Survey

If eligible, the installer will arrange a free home survey. This helps determine which measures you can get under the scheme.

Step 3: Installation

Once approved, the energy efficiency upgrades will be scheduled. The installer will complete the work at no cost to you, as long as you meet the criteria.

Be cautious of companies asking for upfront payments. ECO‑4 is fully funded for qualifying households.

Real Benefits for Welsh Households

Thousands of Welsh households have already benefited from the ECO scheme. From elderly pensioners in rural Carmarthenshire to young families in Cardiff, the upgrades help residents live in warmer, healthier homes without worrying about soaring energy bills.

The scheme not only offers financial relief but also supports national climate goals by improving the efficiency of homes and reducing carbon emissions.

Final Thoughts

The ECO‑4 Boiler Grant in Wales offers a golden opportunity to upgrade your home’s heating and insulation — all completely free if you meet the requirements. Whether you're on benefits, living in a cold or draughty home, or simply looking to cut down energy costs, it’s worth checking your eligibility.

With energy bills continuing to rise, there’s never been a better time to take advantage of this government-backed initiative. Get started today and move one step closer to a warmer, more energy-efficient home.