We received a visit from Improveasy, who were promoting the Ofgem ECO4 scheme. Their enquiries showed that we qualified for a new heating system. The wheels turned quickly and, after a site visit to assess what would be the best system for the house, we were offered radiators as the solution. It was interesting that this was not one of the options shown on the pamphlet we were given showing what savings might be made. A timetable to do the work was then set-up. Two things to note here: we were told that it might run into a second day; it ran into a third during very cold weather that left us without gas heating or hot water. We were informed that on the first day, one set of workmen would arrive in the morning, and the gas fitter would arrive in the afternoon (when they'd gone). They both arrived in the morning! One of the first quotes from the fitter was that it was a 'massive job' for which neither he, nor the electricians fitting the fans, had any prior knowledge of the floor plan of the house which seemed unbelievable! The upheaval was huge. Carpets and floorboards were torn up, existing tiles and facia around the old boiler ripped out (and not replaced, of course). It was a tip for 2 and a half days. It must be said that the gas fitter worked tirelessly and appeared to be very good at his job. However we have ended up with quite a few obtrusive plastic conduits on the walls, as the existing pathways could not be used due to the presence of asbestos (we were told). Then it was over! But has it worked? A trial period lasting 36 days has just ended after which I could compare things against the previous energy readings I had taken up to when the old system was taken out. We are using more gas by .70 of a unit per day - not surprising as more rooms are being heated than before. The good news was that our electricity usage dived by over 10 units per day! We used to use electrical heaters in the rooms not well heated by the previous warm air system. There have been two drawbacks. First, the living room is still heating poorly because the radiator fitted is not big enough for the room (hinted at by the fitter). Second, the boiler does not heat the water very quickly, and you could waste a lot of water waiting for it to do so as the pipes are under very high pressure. If Improveasy had made a follow-up courtesy call, I would have mentioned this to them, but they have not been in contact at all since the job finished. Not checking that everything had been done satisfactorily made me think that they might only be interested in collecting their commission from the government for implementing the arrangements, or am I just a cynic? Still, it was free, so I shouldn't complain, and I like the fact that the new system is so much more controllable, such as the programmable heating schedule for the day. In conclusion, I would say that if you are approached by this company in connection with the Ofgem scheme, don't take everything they say at first hand, and be prepared for disruption.
Claim your business profile now and gain access to all features and respond to customer reviews.
Making homes warmer, greener, and more cost-effective since 2011. From solar panels to heat pumps, with funding options and a full 360° service, Improveasy makes energy upgrades simple.
