Get up to $325 for each energy-efficient window you install through Ontario’s 2024 window rebate programs. Our guide simplifies the process, from checking eligibility to unlocking savings.
Key Takeaways
- To help reduce climate change impacts and increase savings on energy bills, the province of Ontario is offering financial incentives for energy-efficient upgrades through its 2024 window rebate programs, the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus Program (up to $10,600, now discounted) and the CMHC Green Home Program (up to 25% premium refund).
- ENERGY STAR-certified windows, doors, and skylights are essential for rebate program qualification, as they significantly contribute to energy conservation and can help you reduce energy loss and save energy. Some of its models can lead to even more energy savings and can help you get more sustainable rebates.
- As a homeowner who wants to get the most out of rebate programs, you should have a good understanding of the eligibility criteria for the products you’re interested in and plan your upgrades around the availability of programs. Having Registered Energy Advisors conduct pre- and post-retrofit evaluations during the application process is necessary to get the most out of 2024 window rebate programs, as well as combining federal and provincial incentives.
Ontario’s 2024 Window Rebate Programs
In 2024, Ontario launched its window rebate programs that aim to reduce homeowners’ climate impact and energy expenditures, while promoting energy conservation. If you’re a homeowner, these programs can help you save energy and improve the costs while contributing to a greener future, with the benefits including $325 for window upgrades, a cumulative cap of $10,000, significantly reduced hydro bills, and up to 22% in overall energy savings.Ontario offers two major rebate programs: the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus Program and the CMHC Green Home program. Let’s explore these programs further to understand them better.
Home Efficiency Rebate Plus Program
Created by Enbridge Gas, a natural gas utility company, to assist homeowners save energy and help them upgrade to more energy-efficient windows and doors, the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus Program offers you energy rebates of up to $10,600.This year, the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus Program ended earlier, on February 5, after all available spots were filled and pre-retrofit energy assessments were no longer accepted after that date. Therefore, it is important to stay informed about the dates to make sure you don’t miss out on potential rebates. The assessments were no longer accepted after February 5.
CMHC Green Home
The CMHC Green Home is a program that offers partial refunds for purchasing or building an energy-efficient home or making any energy-efficient improvements, such as installing double- or triple-pane windows and doors equipped with Low-E coatings or Magic Thermal Blinds. The program takes into account the property’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy consumption rates.The application must be submitted no later than 2 years after the mortgage closing date and the supporting documentation must be dated at most 5 years before the mortgage closing date. In addition, to be eligible for this program, the maximum purchase price or improve-property value must be below $1,000,000.As such, you may be eligible to receive a 15% premium refund for building/renovating a home to ENERGY STAR® building standards and a 25% premium refund if your home adheres to R-2000 building standards.
Understanding ENERGY STAR Models & Certifications
ENERGY STAR-certified models are an important aspect of rebate programs as these certifications act as a seal of approval for energy efficiency, with windows, sliding glass doors, and skylights reducing energy loss by up to 25%, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions and environmental conservation.Let’s look at the different types of ENERGY STAR-certified models and how they can help you maximize your rebates and save energy.
ENERGY STAR Certified Models
Certified windows are approximately 20% more energy efficient than standard models, doors’ energy efficiency stands at 15%, and skylights at 35%. This can help you improve your home energy performance and potentially increase rebate values. Before choosing the right model, it is important to know that different climate zones require different labels to ensure the maximum energy-efficient upgrades. For example, if you install a certified window or sliding glass door, you may qualify for a $175 rebate for each rough opening.If you want to compare Energy Star certified models and their energy efficiency criteria, you can do so on the official website of the National Resources Canada department. The product database mentions not only the U-factor and the Solar Heat Gain of all products, but also an energy rating, which reflects the balance between heat transfer, air leakage, and solar gain. The higher the energy rating, the slower the heat transfer.Magic products are present in the database as well under the CTW(NuView/Magic Window) brand name. Most of our windows have a 30+ energy rating, some reaching a rating of 48, thus being included in the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient database. Our sliding glass doors have made it to the Most Efficient list as well.
ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Models
Choosing ENERGY STAR’s most efficient models, like Magic, can help you get rebates ranging from $325 to $375 while saving more energy. These models can help you prevent condensation and eliminate drafts, making your home both more comfortable and energy efficient.
Maximizing Your Rebates: Tips & Strategies
To save money and maximize rebate programs, you can combine the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus Program with any available provincial rebate program.Providing an interest-free loan of up to $40,000 for window replacements, the Canada Greener Home Loan is another great option. However, before applying, you must complete a pre-retrofit evaluation, despite the closure of other programs.How can you select eligible products and time your upgrades effectively to get the most out of your rebates?
Choosing Eligible Products
To qualify for Ontario window rebate programs, you should carefully choose the right products. Opting for ENERGY STAR certified or its Most Efficient windows and doors can help you maximize your rebate program potential as replacing the entire window unit, including the frame is one of the requirements to qualify for the Ontario window rebate program.Additionally, the labels should stay on windows and doors until after post-retrofit evaluation which can help ensure that you qualify for the refund.
Timing Your Upgrades
Some rebate programs have limited available funds and operate on a first-come, first-served basis so it’s important to schedule your rebate program evaluations on time. Acting quickly can not only maximize your rebates but also ensure a smooth and efficient upgrade process. So, be proactive and know all the information before you make upgrades and secure your eligibility for rebate programs.
Additional Energy-Efficient Retrofits & Incentives
Home insulation, air sealing, and renewable systems are some of the additional factors that contribute to your home’s energy efficiency and may qualify for rebates or incentives. For example, the Canadian federal government has announced a refundable tax credit for solar panel installations which can help you cover 30% of the installation cost until 2032. After 2032, the tax credit will gradually decrease.
Home Insulation & Air Sealing
R-value and RSI value are used to measure the effectiveness of insulation resisting the heat flow where higher values mean slower heat transfer through insulating material.Proper insulation and air sealing can offer you several efficient benefits, including saving money on energy bills and increasing your home value, while also improving air quality and the indoor climate. For example, basement areas account for about 20% of a home’s total heat loss. Apart from energy efficiency, proper home insulation can protect you from potential energy cost increases, while creating a more comfortable living environment.
Renewable Energy Systems
Solar energy can help you reduce your carbon footprint and save money, making it a great energy investment. The Ontario government supports solar energy system upgrades through net metering, which can allow you to earn credits for the surplus energy you generate.Energy-efficient heating equipment, such as heat pumps is another example of renewable energy systems that can help you achieve significant energy conservation, reduce your utility bills, and decrease the environmental impact.
Navigating the Application Process
Even though the advantages of energy-efficient upgrades are evident, the rebate application process can be a bit overwhelming. However, proper knowledge and assistance can help you navigate this process efficiently. The Home Efficiency Rebate Plus program for 2024 is a four-step program that includes:
- An initial assessment of your home’s energy efficiency
- An assessment after the retrofit
- Registered Energy Advisors assist homeowners in verifying eligibility and navigating the window rebate application process, playing a crucial role in rebate programs.
- As a homeowner, you must also bear the upfront cost for post-retrofit energy auditEnerGuide evaluations, which may differ in price from the initial assessment.
After the pre-retrofit energy assessment, you usually receive the official report via email within two weeks. Now, let’s look at the steps involved in the application process.
Finding a Registered Energy Advisor
Registered Energy Advisors are professionals who can help you complete the rebate application process and working with them is one of the requirements of the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus program. Energy Advisors Ontario is one of the organizations that can help you find a Registered Energy Advisor.Registered Energy Advisors offer a simple process that involves three steps:
- Contacting the company.
- Scheduling a home energy assessment.
- Completing a post-energy audit to receive rebates.
The home energy assessment conducted by a registered energy advisor includes a comprehensive home examination and formal reporting to help with upgrade recommendations.
Pre-Retrofit Energy Assessment
This assessment involves taking photos and measuring areas such as windows and doors, as well as conducting a pressure test to identify any air leakage and you must complete it before moving to any retrofits in order to qualify for the grant.After the assessment, the energy advisor will develop a personalized plan to improve your home’s efficiency, which can include suggestions for upgrading windows and front doors or sliding glass doors. Typically, you will receive a formal report of the energy assessment via email within two weeks after the evaluation.
Post-Retrofit Evaluation
The post-retrofit evaluation shows the home’s energy cost savings and greenhouse gas emissions reduction from the completed retrofits. Keeping the labels on windows and doors is something you should do for the post-retrofit review to confirm your rebate eligibility.
Summary
ENERGY STAR models, efficient products, and the right upgrade timing are some of the ways to maximize your rebates and improve energy savings when upgrading your home. Choosing energy-efficient windows and doors can significantly improve your energy costs, reduce your carbon footprint, and improve the value of your home. With the right research, knowledge, and strategies, you can easily navigate the rebate program application process and ensure the savings you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a rebate for replacing windows in Ontario in 2024?
In 2024, Ontario launched its window rebate programs for homeowners when upgrading their windows, doors, or siding to promote energy efficiency through renewable energy systems.
What are the rebates for Ontario 2024?
Ontario offers two major rebate programs: the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus Program and the CMHC Green Home Program, with rebates up to $10,000 or premium refunds of up to 25%.
What is the $7,100 rebate in Ontario?
In Ontario, homeowners can receive up to $7,100 in rebates for installing an ENERGY STAR-certified heat pump, helping them improve their energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint.
What are the benefits of energy-efficient windows and doors?
Lower energy costs, reducing environmental impact, living in a healthier and more comfortable home, and saving money are just some of the benefits of switching to energy-efficient windows and doors.
What is the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus Program?
Home Efficiency Rebate Plus Program aims to assist people in Ontario in reducing their energy consumption by upgrading to more energy-efficient windows and doors. In 2024, the program offered rebates up to $10,600, which helped participants significantly reduce their monthly energy costs.