Consider this scenario: you’re a homeowner in Thunder Bay in January, it’s -42°C outside, and…your furnace dies. You’re a prime candidate for an Ontario furnace rebate!
There are few things worse than being cold, and in these harsh conditions, the cold is an intense issue. It can throw cause many issues, some of them even deadly. Extreme temperatures are nothing to play around with, so reading this for preparation is very wise. These types of intentional care and offers are some of the best aspects of the Canadian government. They care for their people, especially in harsh conditions like those that require immediate services. Furnaces are not a commodity; they are an absolute necessity. There is plenty of help out there for those who are stuck in these unexpected situations in the middle of winter, but only if you are aware of them. This list is made to make it plain to you precisely what is available and how to acquire it. These rebates can really save your life and your finances at the same time.
(Not from Ontario? Then replace “Thunder Bay” with “Edmonton”, and you’ll be in the market for an Alberta furnace rebate!)
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. In this comprehensive guide to government rebates for furnaces, we cover 92 government programs that can help save you money and energy—and stay warm. Don’t forget to take in the tips for making the most of your new furnace at the end!
Federal Furnace Rebates
These two programs are available nationwide:
RBC ENERGY SAVER™ LOAN
If you’ve already been through your provincial home assessment and upgrade process but still have more work to do, if you don’t have one in your area, or if you just don’t want to go that route, RBC has your back with a flexible loan plan designed specifically for those with energy-upgrade goals.
This loan offers a 1% discount on the interest rate or a $100 rebate on a home energy audit when you make eligible upgrade purchases using their fixed-rate loan, so long as the amount borrowed is over $5,000. Just make sure that your assessment is completed somewhere between 90 days before your loan is approved and 90 days after you receive your loan.
You can even choose how long you need to pay off the loan, from 5 to 10 years depending on the amount borrowed, or pay it off early with no penalties if you like. Better still, should life happen, as it often does, they offer a skip-a-payment option that you can use once a year.
Not only can you save money with new, energy efficient upgrades, but now you can save on the amount borrowed too!
Simply follow these steps to arrange your home energy audit:
- Choose a licensed home auditor through the Natural Resources Canada website. Make sure you get quotes from a few auditors and choose one that you feel offers the best overall value.
- Once your assessment is complete, make sure you get a receipt or invoice from the auditor to receive the discount or rebate from RBC.
- Submit your audit receipt or invoice to your RBC branch within 120 days of receiving your RBC Energy Saver Loan.
Your home energy audit rebate will be credited to your RBC account. The amount will be the actual invoiced amount of the home energy audit up to a maximum amount of $100. For more information on the loan, call 1-800-769-2511 or visit an RBC branch in person.
RESIDENTIAL REHABILITATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (RRAP) ON-RESERVE
The RRAP program is open to First Nations or First Nation members who own a home located on-reserve. It has two streams—one for those with a disability and one regular program—that provide a forgivable loan of up to $60,000 for those who earn a low income to help pay for repairs and modifications to a home that does not meet minimum levels of health and safety.
For example, if your furnace is broken and is no longer providing heat, the purchase of a new furnace is an eligible repair. The loan does not have to be repaid and is considered forgiven after 1 to 5 years (case dependent) as long as a First Nations member under the income threshold continues to live in the house.
*For northern or remote areas, the maximum total amount may be increased by an additional 25%.
Eligible home repairs include the following:
- structural
- electrical
- heating
- fire safety
- plumbing
If you also meet the following criteria, then you can take part in this program:
- The house must be at least 5 years old (with the exception of RRAP-D).
- The property has not received RRAP funding within the past 15 years. If it has, and you need repairs urgently, your FNH consultant can tell you whether other assistance may be available.
- The house is not receiving assistance under a housing agreement.
To apply, refer to the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program (RRAP) On-Reserve: Applicant’s Guide for instructions, requirements, and advice.
Go to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation website to download the application form.
Alberta Furnace Rebates
SENIORS HOME ADAPTATION AND REPAIR PROGRAM
Seniors can receive a low-interest loan of up to $40,000 to make renovations to their primary residence. SHARP will register a caveat against your land title certificate to secure any loan you receive. You will repay the loan, with interest, when you move, sell the home, or sooner if you wish. You are not required to make monthly repayments.
The maximum household income for this program is $75,000, and applicants must own at least 25% of their primary residence. So if you’re a Canadian citizen, have lived in Alberta for at least 3 months, and are in need of a new, more energy-efficient furnace, then you are encouraged to apply! Download and fill out the application form and send it to
Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair Program
P.O. Box 1050 STN Main
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 2M1
SENIORS HOME ADAPTATION AND REPAIR PROGRAM
If it is determined you are ineligible for a loan (you have insufficient equity or are not a fee-simple homeowner) and you are a single senior with annual income less than $27,300, or a senior couple with annual income less than $44,335, your application may be considered for a grant to help cover some basic and essential home repairs, such as buying a new furnace.
Note, though, that you can’t buy a new furnace for renovation or energy-efficiency reasons with this program, and furnace repairs are ineligible. You can however, buy a brand new furnace if it is determined it is a necessity, and the Alberta government will give you $3,000 back.
You may be eligible for the grant if you fit this description:
- not eligible for a SHARP loan
- 65 or older (only one spouse/partner needs to be 65)
- a Canadian citizen or have been lawfully admitted to Canada for permanent residence
- an Alberta resident and have lived in Alberta for at least 3 months
- a low-income senior with income below the SHARP grant income threshold
- receiving or have applied for all other eligible seniors financial assistance
- submitted a completed and signed SHARP application form
- an Alberta resident and have lived in Alberta for at least 3 months
- a low-income senior with income below the SHARP grant income threshold
- receiving or have applied for all other eligible seniors financial assistance
- submitted a completed and signed SHARP application form
If you’re saying, yes, that’s me, and your property also fits one of these requirements, you will qualify:
- mobile homeowner on non-owned land
- registered life estate
- a settlement member who is a holder of a Metis title in accordance with the Metis Settlements Act
- fee-simple owner (and not eligible for a SHARP loan)
There is no need to apply for this program as the government will tell you after you’ve applied for the SHARP loan if this is the program you qualify for.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY ALBERTA’S HOME IMPROVEMENT REBATE PROGRAM
If you’re an Albertan homeowner and would like to improve the efficiency of your home with a new furnace, which not only helps the environment but saves you money, this program can help you spend less to achieve that goal.Getting your $75 rebate for your new furnace through the online rebates program is easy. Just follow these steps:
- not eligible for a SHARP loan
- 65 or older (only one spouse/partner needs to be 65)
- a Canadian citizen or have been lawfully admitted to Canada for permanent residence
- an Alberta resident and have lived in Alberta for at least 3 months
- a low-income senior with income below the SHARP grant income threshold
- receiving or have applied for all other eligible seniors financial assistance
- submitted a completed and signed SHARP application form
While you’re working on improving your energy efficiency, why not add a few more items? Save up to $1,500 on new windows, $1,000 on a tankless water heater, up to $3,500 on new insulation, and much more!
Online rebates are also available for energy-efficient appliances and more (though there is a limit of two products per category per address). You can save as much as a $100 on refrigerators, washers, or smart thermostats!
This program even offers a Home Efficiency Tool calculator, which helps you calculate the savings potential of your home.
MEDICINE HAT – HAT SMART SCRATCH & WIN
With a program called Hat Smart, you can take advantage of many different rebate programs at the same time as you increase your energy efficiency. In this case, you could get some money back in your wallet after you buy furnace filters or have your furnace serviced.
Just download, fill out, and print off the application form and bring it to the Customer Service Desk at City Hall with your receipts and staff will give you a ticket to scratch. The number you reveal will be the amount you get back.
BANFF HOME ENERGY USE REDUCTION REBATES
Because it’s important to the Town of Banff that residents save energy and use clean, energy-efficient renewable resources, they offer a rebate of $500 rebate for a high-efficiency (Energy Star®-certified) furnace. This way, you save money on the purchase of a new furnace and you also save money on your energy bills, which can get rather burdensome in the middle of January!
All you have to do is purchase an eligible furnace, download and fill out the application form, and send it to Town Hall (send your original receipt too!).
British Columbia Furnace Rebates
BC HOME ENERGY COACH
BC Home Energy Coach is funded by the Province of BC’s Innovative Clean Energy Fund and supported by BC Hydro and Fortis BC. It provides many different rebates and incentives, including coaching on ways to make your home more energy efficient, which saves you money and helps the environment.
The incentives below are for new energy-efficient furnaces. For more incentives and rebates, visit BC Home Energy Coach.
BC HYDRO ENERGY CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
This service is open to qualifying residents in participating towns or municipalities living in a detached home, townhome, duplex, or mobile home. It provides a free home energy audit, personalized energy-efficiency advice, and energy-saving product installation including efficient lightbulbs, high-efficiency showerheads, and weather-stripping. You may even qualify to receive a free ENERGY STAR® refrigerator, insulation in your walls, attic, and/or crawlspace, and/or a high-efficiency gas furnace.
This program is for those with a low income. It’s as easy as applying online. Or you can download and print off the application form and send it with an income-verification document (i.e., a Notice of Assessment) to
BC Hydro and FortisBC ECAP OperationsP.O. Box 8910 STN TerminalVancouver, B.C.V6B 9Z9
BC HYDRO NON-PROFIT AND ABORIGINAL HOUSING UPGRADES
Residents in aboriginal communities and providers of non-profit housing can receive free assistance with upgrading their housing or appliances for energy efficiency.
A contractor will come in and perform an assessment and all the necessary upgrades for you for free. The owner of the home will receive the report detailing all the work that was done. All types of dwellings qualify for the program itself, but mobile homes and apartments do not qualify to receive new furnaces.
To learn more about eligibility requirements or to get started, contact Carillion Canada at 1 (877) 806-3242.
FORTIS BC ENERGY CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Fortis BC offers the same program as BC Hydro, so it doesn’t matter where you’re located, you can still take advantage of the free furnace and installation—or furnace rebate—if you qualify for this program. To qualify, you do need to have a low income, have a utility account, and live in a detached house, duplex, or townhouse. For example, a family of four with an annual household income under $60,300 qualifies.
A program-qualified energy advisor will perform an EnerGuide®1 pre- and post-upgrade home evaluation and tell you what upgrades you need. You then qualify for a free Energy Savings Kit, which includes a water-efficient showerhead, weather-stripping, window film, outlet and plate sealers, furnace filter coupon, LED night light, and a thermometer for your refrigerator or freezer.
Download and print off the application form with proof of income (i.e., a Notice of Assessment), and then send it to
FortisBC Energy Conservation Assistance Program 100-1975 Springfield Road Kelowna, BC V1Y 7V7
FortisBC Connect to Gas Program
With this incentive, you may qualify for rebates between $700 and $2,700 for installing a natural gas heating system, heating appliance, or heating and hot water system. You only qualify if you’re currently using oil, propane, or wood to heat your home.
If you’re interested, you have to act fast because you have to prequalify before December this year. These are some of the available upgrades:
- $1,300 rebate for installing a qualifying natural gas heating system
- $1,700 rebate for installing both a qualifying natural gas space heating system and natural gas water heating system, or a qualifying combination space and water heating system
- $700 rebate for installing a qualifying natural gas direct vent wall furnace
- $1,100 rebate for installing both a qualifying natural gas direct vent wall furnace and natural gas water heating system
Make sure you get a pre-qualification code before you apply for this program. Once you’ve done that and reviewed the eligible systems, you can purchase and install them and then apply for the program by downloading the application form and sending with the contractor’s invoice to
Connect to Gas programFortisBC Energy Inc.PO Box 9080, Station Main Surrey, BC, V3T 0J6
VANCITY ENERGY SAVER™ LOAN
Just in case you’ve already participated in the other rebate programs for other energy-efficient upgrades, Vancouver City Savings Credit Union has a loan that could help you out.
For qualifying upgrades, such as new energy-efficient appliances (furnaces qualify) insulation, space heating, or ventilation, you can receive a personal loan at a prime + 1% rate for up to 15 years. You can borrow as little as $3,500 or a maximum of $50,000 and pay it back through flexible payments options.
You can even apply online!
NELSON ECOSAVE ENERGY RETROFITS PROGRAM
Interested in saving money and reducing your energy consumption? Then check out this program that offers a home energy evaluation, free energy-efficient products, and optional low-interest financing that comes directly off your bill.
Upgrades include improving insulation, reducing air leakage, and installing more efficient space and water heating systems.
You don’t need to utilize the financing to participate in the program; the flexibility of the program allows you to decide what options are best for you.
For more information or to apply, contact the program coordinator or call (250) 509-2021.
Manitoba Furnace Rebates
Power Smart Residential Loan
For homeowners who would like to make energy-efficient upgrades to their home, including furnaces, Manitoba Hydro also offers a low-interest loan. The monthly payment is simply added to your bill.
The loan covers qualifying upgrades for these categories:
- windows and doors
- residential space heating equipment
- insulation
- air leakage sealing
- ventilation
- residential water heating equipment
- electric vehicle chargers
You can finance up to $7,500 per residence, with a minimum loan amount of $500, and the interest sits fixed at 4.8% for 5 years.
A registered program supplier (contractor or retailer) will work with you to determine if your project is eligible for financing and will help you complete the loan application.
Power Smart Affordable Energy Program
If your household has a low income but you would like to improve your energy efficiency, Manitoba Hydro will do a free inspection to let you know what upgrades are available to you.
Through this program, you could receive free insulation, a natural gas furnace for $9.50 a month for 5 years, and/or a $3,000 rebate for the purchase of a high-efficiency natural gas boiler.
You will even receive these free energy-efficient items after your inspection:
- low-flow showerheads
- LED bulbs
- faucet aerator
Both homeowners and landlords qualify for this program. Renters are welcome to participate, but any costs and rebates will belong to the landlord.
You may qualify for this program if you meet these criteria:
- You live in a single or semi-detached home or mobile home on a permanent foundation,
- You live in the home year-round,
- You have a total household income (before deductions) that meets or falls below the limits listed in the table below (based on the number of people living in your home), and
- You provide all applicable documents for people 18 years of age and older who live in your home.
If you qualify, just download the application form and follow the instructions for submission.
POWER SMART PAYS FINANCING
This program from Manitoba could be of interest to you if you live elsewhere in Manitoba or you’ve already reached the maximum rebate rates offered by the previous Manitoba programs.
This Manitoba Hydro financing program is a convenient and affordable financing option that could allow you to make energy-efficiency upgrades to your home. It lets you use your estimated annual utility savings from an energy-efficiency upgrade you made to pay for your upgrade (or a part of). Your annual savings are averaged out over 12 months and used to calculate your monthly payment, which is added to your energy bill. The interest rate if fixed at 4.9% for the first 5 years.
The best part is that the loan is attached to your home, so if you sell your house, the payments are transferred to the new owner; they don’t follow you.
Power Smart PAYS financing covers qualifying upgrades for furnaces, but they must be CSA-approved, high-efficiency condensing natural gas furnace with a minimum AFUE of 92% when replacing an existing standard efficiency natural gas furnace (AFUE of 60%) or an electric, fuel oil, or propane heating system. The financing includes all costs directly related to the furnace upgrade such as modifications to venting, ductwork plenums, gas piping, permits, and the thermostat.
All you need to do is be a Manitoba homeowner in a detached, semi-detached, or mobile home (on a permanent foundation with a permanent water supply) with an up-to-date water bill.
A registered program supplier (contractor or retailer) will work with you to determine if your project is eligible for financing and will help you complete the PAYS Financing Agreement.
MANITOBA HYDRO HEAT RECOVERY VENTILATOR CONTROL PROGRAM
If you’re installing a new furnace, why not install a heat recovery ventilator for your furnace? You could receive a $150 rebate after purchase.
You qualify for this rebate if:
- you own the home where the new controller is installed,
- you have a Manitoba Hydro account,
- the control must be installed in your primary residence; seasonal residences do not qualify,
- your home’s existing HRV control must be a basic model (manual on/off fan operation and/or timer), and
- your HRV contractor must be a registered program supplier with Manitoba Hydro.
Simply hire an approved contractor (or have your contractor install it when they install your new furnace) and they will apply the rebate directly on your invoice.
MANITOBA HYDRO ENERGY FINANCE PLAN
If you’re thinking of making upgrades to your gas and electrical systems, the Energy Finance Plan will give qualified homeowners a loan between $500 and $5,000 for the upgrades.
The current interest rate is 6.75% and is spread over 5 years, with your monthly payments applied to your bill.
This program is open to all Manitoba residents, but the loan is the responsibility of the owner, not the tenant.
Just mention this program to your contractor and they will apply to this program for you.
Homeowner Renovation Assistance Program
If you are looking to make some major renovations to your home and you have a low income, you can receive up to $20,000 ($23,000 if you live in a northern or rural community) for those renovations.
The renovations must be related to one of the following categories: structural, plumping, fire safety, electrical, or heating. The loan is forgivable after 5 years. The financial assistance doesn’t have to be paid back unless you sell, rent, or transfer title of your home within 5 years of completing the repairs.
In this program though, an inspector will come to your home to determine what repairs need to be done. Those are the repairs that must be done, which means you can’t choose to just buy a new furnace; there may very well be other repairs that need to be done, and you’ll have to take care of those with the funding as well.
For more information and to apply, contact
Manitoba Housing, Housing Delivery Branch204-945-5566 or 1-866-689-5566
or visit them in person at 200-352 Donald Street, Winnipeg.
Manitoba Emergency Repair Program for Homeowners
If you have a low income and need to make emergency repairs to your home, you may qualify to receive up to $5,000 ($9,000 if you live in the northern community). This is a grant that does not need to be paid back.
All repairs must be completed within 90 days of approval and must belong to one or more of the following categories:
- structural
- electrical
- heating
- water supply
- roof
- disability and accessibility
- plumbing
An inspector will come to your house to determine what repairs need to be done under this program.
To qualify, you must have exhausted all other forms of funding. If you would like to apply for this program, or if you need more information, contact
Manitoba Housing, Housing Delivery Branch204-945-5566 or 1-866-689-5566
or visit them in person at 200-352 Donald Street, Winnipeg.
Rental Housing Improvement Program
If you own a rental property and rent to low-income tenants, you can receive up to $24,000 per bed unit for repairs to the property bring it up to a minimum level of health and safety. If your unit is located in a northern or remote community, up to $28,000 may be available.
This grant does not have to be paid back unless you violate the terms of the agreement, such as selling the unit in less than 15 years.
Keep checking the website for the annual request for applications, and until then, if you need more information, contact
Manitoba Housing, Housing Delivery Branch204-945-5566 or 1-866-689-5566
or visit them in person at 200-352 Donald Street, Winnipeg.
WINNIPEG MINIMUM HOME REPAIR PROGRAM
The City of Winnipeg provides this grant of up to $3,000 for emergency repairs, which includes furnaces.
It is currently available for only the following areas: William Whyte, North Point Douglas, Spence, and Centennial.
For more information or to apply for the program, call 311 or email them.
Disaster Financial Assistance
If your area has experienced a natural disaster, the Government of Manitoba may declare it eligible for Disaster Financial Assistance.
Items considered for coverage include beds, essential furnishings and clothing, furnaces, water heaters, fridges, stoves, computers, and televisions.
There is a deductible of 20% of the assessed damage.
The maximum amount of assistance provided is $240,000. You can apply online, download and print off the application form, or you can call and ask them to mail you an application form. Then send the completed form in via email or in person at
Disaster Financial Assistance
Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization
1525-405 Broadway
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3C 3L6
New Brunswick Furnace Rebates
NEW BRUNSWICK REPAIR PROGRAM
This is a program funded by both the federal and provincial governments and provides a forgivable loan of up to $10,000 for regular repairs and $10,000 for disabled accessibility items. You can take up to 15 years to pay back the loan.
It is available to seniors and homeowners with a disability who earn a low income to help pay for repairs to their home that increase accessibility and safety. The amount the loan given is based on income and the amount of repairs needed. Landlords also qualify up to a maximum of $10,000.
You could qualify for this program if you meet these criteria:
- have a household income less than the established housing income limits
- own and reside in the home
- modifications are housing-related and/or provide better access within the home
- modifications facilitate and prolong independent living
- home requires major repairs or lacks basic facilities
Contact the Government of New Brunswick to order an application.
NEW BRUNSWICK HOUSING ASSISTANCE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
Housing Assistance provides a forgivable loan of up to $10,000. This program is available to homeowners with a disability who earn a low income to help pay for repairs that increase the accessibility and safety of their home, as well as to landlords making modifications for a disable tenant.
Anyone with a disability, or homeowners who live with a disabled person, who have a total household income less than the applicable Housing Income Limit or landlords that rent to people with disabilities or those with income less than the applicable Housing Income Limits are eligible for this program.
However, the modifications must be housing and safety related and/or must improve access and accessibility for people with disabilities. In the end, properties have to meet acceptable standards of health and safety and the work has to conform to the requirements of the most current National Building Code.
Contact the Government of New Brunswick to ask for an application.
Newfoundland & Labrador Furnace Rebates
HOME ENERGY SAVINGS PROGRAM
If you have a low income ($32,500 or less), live in Newfoundland or Labrador, and use 15,000 kWh of electricity every year, this program may help you if your home is electrically heated.
An inspector will come into your home to see the best solutions to improve your energy efficiency, and as a result, the size of your electricity bill, and that may include replacing your old furnace.
Apply by calling 1 (866) 331-3436 or (709) 724-3000.
Northwest Territories Furnace Rebates
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY INCENTIVE PROGRAM
Those interested in switching to cleaner energy formats should look into this program that offers rebates for upgrading to systems that use renewable resources.
In this case, replace your electric- or gas-powered heating systems with a wood pellet furnace or an EPA-certified wood furnace for space heating that operates the same as a conventional furnace—with the exception of fuel type—and qualify to receive a rebate of one-third of the cost, up to $5,000, on the following:
- alternative energy systems and all materials required for system installation
- shipping costs
- inverters and electrical control systems
- batteries for stand-alone applications and for grid-tied systems with battery backup
- monitoring equipment cost
- integrated fuel storage/handling/feed equipment for wood pellet or other bio-fuels
Just complete the application form and then send it along with your quote, receipts, and photos showing the system installed to the Arctic Energy Alliance at the address given on the form.
Nova Scotia Furnace Rebates
EFFICIENCY NOVA SCOTIA REBATES
Thanks to this new, innovative program to make Nova Scotia more energy efficient and easier on the environment, you stand to get a lot of money back when you work to make your home greener. While you may have to have a home assessment done to take advantage of these rebates, the benefits are certainly worth it.
There are 2 ways you can go with this program: you can use either the Home Energy Assessment program or the Green Heat program. Under either program, you could qualify to receive rebates for both of these:
And if you decide to tackle more, you could also get rebates like these:
- air to water heat pumps (get the rebate through the Home Energy Assessment program or the Green Heat program)
- basement header insulation ($100)
- ceiling insulation (get the rebate through the Home Energy Assessment program or the Green Heat program)
- centrally ducted heat pumps (get the rebate through the Home Energy Assessment program or the Green Heat program)
- draft proofing (get the rebate through the Home Energy Assessment program or the Green Heat program)
- drain water heat recovery ($100)
- basement slab insulation ($100)
- ductless mini-split heat pump (get the rebate through the Home Energy Assessment program or the Green Heat program)
- exposed floor insulation ($100)
- exterior wall insulation (up to $1,800)
- foundation insulation (up to $1,250)
- heat recovery ventilation ($100)
- ground source heat pumps (get the rebate through the Home Energy Assessment program or the Green Heat program)
- solar air heating equipment (get the rebate through the Home Energy Assessment program or the Green Heat program)
If your home is electrically heated and not a multi-family unit, just book a home assessment from any partner on the list, complete any installation, and then have it inspected. Once that process is complete, you can send in your documents and receive your rebate!
Call an energy solutions advisor at 1 (877) 999-6035 to apply or for more information.
Efficiency Nova Scotia Green Heat Program
Homeowners can use this program to receive the service rebates if you know the exact product you want to install or have already installed it in the last 90 days and are electrically heated.
Efficiency Nova Scotia Home Energy Assessment
Homeowners can use this program to receive their service rebates by booking a Home Energy Assessment. Going this route not only gives you access to more information on how best to make your home energy efficient but it also opens up ways to save more money. You could potentially get up to $5,000 in rebates this way!
NOVA SCOTIA EMERGENCY REPAIR PROGRAM
The Emergency Repair Program helps low-income homeowners in rural areas pay for emergency repairs so they can continue to safely live in their homes. And you’re in luck if you are Aboriginal, as much of the funding is reserved Aboriginal residents. You can receive a grant of up to $7,000 for such eligible repairs as these:
- heating systems
- chimneys
- doors and windows
- foundations
- roofs, walls, floors, and ceilings
- vents, louvres
- plumbing
- electrical systems
You may be eligible if you meet these requirements:
- You live in a rural area (communities of less than 2,500 and larger communities over 2,500 that do not have a defined core area).
- Your house requires emergency repairs so that you can continue to live in it safely.
- Your total household income is below the established income limit, which varies depending on household size and the area you live in.
Contact Housing Nova Scotia at 1-844-424-5110 for more information.
NOVA SCOTIA PROVINCIAL HOUSING EMERGENCY REPAIR PROGRAM
This additional program administered by Housing Nova Scotia helps all other low-income homeowners make emergency repairs to their homes. Eligible homeowners can receive a forgivable loan up to $6,500 to help cover the costs of materials and labour.
Contact Housing Nova Scotia at 1 (844) 424-5110 for more information and to confirm that replacing your furnace qualifies for a rebate.
NOVA SCOTIA HOME OWNERSHIP PRESERVATION
Does your home require major repairs? If you qualify for this program and agree to stay in your home for 10 years, you can get funding to repair any of the following structural areas of your home:
- structural
- framework
- electrical system
- heating system
- fire safety
The amount of funding you can get is dependent on a variety of factors, so call Housing Nova Scotia at 1-844-424-5110 to apply and get more information.
NOVA SCOTIA HOMEOWNER RESIDENTIAL REHABILITATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program is funded by both the federal and provincial governments and helps low-income homeowners ensure that their home meets minimum health and safety levels. Not only must your income be under acceptable levels, dependent on where you live and the number of people in your household, but your home must be valued at less than the acceptable level, again dependent on the size of your household and your location.
The $18,000 is a forgivable loan to be used on mandatory home repairs and anything that extends the life of the home. After 5 years, the loan is forgiven. These are eligible health and safety categories:
- structural
- electrical
- plumbing
- heating
- fire safety
You may even qualify to receive financial assistance for overcrowding, so if that is an issue for you, mention it in your application.
Call Housing Nova Scotia at 1 (844) 424-5110 for more information or to apply.
NOVA SCOTIA RENTAL RESIDENTIAL REHABILITATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Landlords too can qualify to receive assistance in funding repairs and modifications to make sure Nova Scotians have access to affordable housing. While rents must stay below market rent both before and after the project and the property has to remain livable for a further 15 years after the project (among other stipulations), landlords can get a forgivable loan for up to $24,000 per unit to finance repairs in any of these areas:
- structural
- electrical
- plumbing
- heating
- fire safety
Call Housing Nova Scotia at 1 (844) 424-5110 for more information or to apply.
THE SENIOR CITIZENS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
If you are a Nova Scotian senior and would like to stay in your home but can’t afford the necessary repairs to roofing, plumbing, or heating, Housing Nova Scotia is ready to give you a grant of up to $6,500 to cover these costs.
You could be eligible if you meet just these few criteria:
- You or your spouse must be at least 65 years old.
- Your total household income is below the established income limit, which varies depending on household size and the area you live in.
- You must own and have lived in your home for at least 1 year.
Call 1 (844) 424-5110 to apply or for more information.
SMALL LOANS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Consider this program if none of the previous Nova Scotia programs are a good fit for you. For those who already own their own home and want or need to make improvements to it, Housing Nova Scotia will supply eligible homeowners with a small, low-interest loan of up to $20,000 to help fund the improvements.
To be eligible for this program
- Your total household income must be below the established income limit, which varies depending on household size and the area you live in,
- You must own and live in the home you want to renovate, and
- You must have a good credit rating.
Call Housing Nova Scotia at 1 (844) 424-5110 for more information or to apply.
Nunavut Furnace Rebates
SENIOR CITIZENS HOME REPAIR PROGRAM
Seniors who have lived in Nunavut for at least 2 years, are over the age of 60, have qualifying incomes, are not in rental or mortgage arrears with any local housing organization, and who need to repair and/or adapt their homes to ensure their continued safe occupancy are eligible to receive a grant of to $15,000 plus freight costs.
Your house must be your principal residence, located in Nunavut, be at least 5 years old, and have current insurance in place to at least cover full replacement of your home.
This program allows upgrades for energy efficiency, so you could qualify for this rebate whether it needs repairs, doesn’t work at all, or you just want to save money and energy. The grant covers materials, labour, marshalling and freight, applicable permits and fees, and GST. Plus, if a contractor with necessary skills can’t be found in Nunavut, this program may cover the travel costs to bring one in to work on the project.
Download the application form and send it with your signed, supporting documents to the address on the form.
Call Housing Nova Scotia at 1 (844) 424-5110 for more information or to apply.
HOME REPAIR PROGRAM
Look into this program if you live in Nunavut and need major repairs or renovations done to your home. You could get a $65,000 forgivable loan for these repairs that include every part of your heating system such as your furnace. And any amount exceeding $50,000 must be used for energy-efficient upgrades, so you could even replace your old furnace with new, cleaner, money- and energy-saving furnace!
The amount you receive is dependent on your income. For example, if your income is under 80% of the allowed amount, you will receive 100% of repair costs, which includes the cost of materials, freight, and labour.
You could qualify if:
- You’re at least 19 years old and have lived in Nunavut for at least 2 years,
- Your income is less than the income eligibility limits as set by the Homeownership Program Income Eligibility numbers,
- You’re not in arrears with any local housing organization, and
- You have title (or leasehold title) to the property.
Download the application form and send it in with your signed supporting documents to the address on the application form.
EMERGENCY REPAIR PROGRAM
If it’s a new furnace you need because your old one has given up the ghost, then jump on this program. It offers a grant of up to a maximum of $15,000 for emergency repairs that represent an immediate threat to the occupants of the home.
The eligibility criteria are identical to the Home Repair Program above:
- You’re at least 19 years of age and have lived in Nunavut for at least 2 years.
- Your income is less than the income eligibility limits as set by the Homeownership Program Income Eligibility numbers.
- You’re not in arrears with any local housing organization, and
- You have title (or leasehold title) to the property.
Download the application form and send it in with your signed supporting documents to the address on the application form.
SENIOR AND DISABLED PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM
This program provides a grant of up to $3,000 per year and is available to seniors or people with disabilities to help maintain and repair their home. While you can’t buy a new furnace with this grant, it does include yearly servicing for your furnace to avoid the possibility of major repairs.
You’re eligible if you fit these requirements:
- homeowner over 60 years old
- receiving a disability benefit
- income is less than the amount set by the Homeownership Program Income Eligibility
The requested repairs must be for one or more of these reasons:
- must ensure continued safe occupancy
- must extend service life of building systems
- must assist seniors and people with a disability in overcoming obstacles of maintaining a home
- must be equipment used by people with a disability
- must reduce the number of emergency repairs required due to lack of preventative maintenance
Download the application form and send it in with your signed supporting documents to the address on the form.
Ontario Furnace Rebates
HOME ENERGY LOAN PROGRAM
If you book a home energy assessment, this program offers low-interest loans of up to $75,000 to qualifying homeowners interested in improving the energy and water efficiency of their home, including furnaces. The loans are paid back over time via installments on your property tax bill. These loans are attached to the house rather than the homeowner, so if you move, the payments are taken over by the new owners.
Eligible upgrades include:
- high-efficiency furnaces, boilers, and air conditioners
- windows and doors
- high-efficiency water heaters
- rooftop solar PV panels
- solar hot water systems
- drain-water heat recovery systems
- air sealing
- toilets
- insulation
This loan helps homeowners avoid the high upfront cost of renovations and access up to $2,250 in incentives from utility companies. Once the loan is approved, homeowners can hire the contractor of their choice from the list of approved contractors and complete their renovations. ?
he maximum amount of the loan can’t be worth more than 10% of the value of your home or $75,000, whichever is less. This includes a 2% administrative charge.
You may qualify for a low-interest loan through HELP if:
- you own a detached, semi-detached, or row house,
- all the property owners on title agree to the program,
- your property tax and utility payments to the City are in good standing, and
Click here to apply now. For more information on the program, contact
Sarah Rodrigues, Program CoordinatorHome Energy Loan ProgramEnvironment & Energy DivisionCity of Toronto55 John Street, 2nd FloorToronto, ON M5V [email protected]
GREEN ONTARIO FUND
This not-for-profit agency uses its funds to help Ontario residents reduce their carbon footprint and save money. It’s easy to take advantage of the free smart thermostat installation and home energy review included in the program!
Consider participating in this program to learn if you really need a new furnace, what furnace has the best balance of value and cost, and what rebate programs would be available to you. And while you’re at it, perhaps you might decide to make a few more energy-efficient upgrades to save yourself some money down the road.
Get rebates of up to $20,000 depending on the systems you replace or add, which could include furnaces, ground- or air-source heat pumps, insulation, windows, or smart thermostats.
Both homeowners and renters living in single-detached, semi-detached, townhome, or row homes can take advantage of this program, but renters will have to submit a landlord consent form.
This is all you have to do to get started saving money:
- 1Register: apply online or call 1 (888) 728-8444 (TTY 1 [844] 466-2017).
- 2Book an appointment: once your registration is confirmed; you will receive an email within 2 weeks to book your appointment. Select your appointment date and time and preferred smart thermostat model (If your heating system is incompatible with the smart thermostat models offered, you will still receive the free home energy assessment and home energy report)
- 3You will need to sign a participant agreement and agree to the smart thermostat manufacturer’s terms of use and privacy policy.NOTE: Due to the overwhelming popularity of the program, your time slot for an appointment may be sometime within the next 4 months
- 4Enjoy your home visit: on your appointed date, a GreenON Installations program representative will arrive to install your chosen smart thermostat and complete your home energy review.NOTE: Please be aware that GreenON Installations program representatives will always contact you before coming to your home. If you are called by a program representative and would like to verify their credentials, you can call GreenON Support at 1-888-728-8444.
- 5Receive your home energy report: after your appointment, a home energy report will be put together and emailed to you within a few weeks
Are you eligible?
- You live full time in the property you want the home assessment done on and it is your primary residence OR you are the building owner/manager of the property.
- You are willing to complete a Participant Agreement form and agree to the thermostat manufacturer’s terms of use and privacy policy for any energy-efficient products you receive.
- You have an existing thermostat (not a smart thermostat) that can be removed and decommissioned.
UNION GAS HOME RENO REBATE
This rebate program offers up to $5,000 (or up to a $5,800 rebate when you install an air-source heat-pump system) for their customers, plus additional electric appliance rebates, if you meet certain requirements, including having an energy assessment conducted before and after renovations. And when you upgrade to a new, more energy-efficient furnace, you could get $1,000 back.
If you participate in this program, you’ll also learn a lot of other ways to stay warm and save money with the home assessment they do.
To apply, simply enter your postal code to find a list of approved energy advisors. Once you book an appointment, you can apply for your rebates.
TORONTO HYDRO HEATING & COOLING INCENTIVES
If you install a high-efficiency furnace, you could get a $250 rebate. It must be equipped with an ECM however. This program ends December this year, and your application form must be received by February.
All you need to do is hire a contractor to buy and install the furnace, and they will fill out and send the application in for you. Then you will get an email for your review and approval. Send your approval along with your receipt, and then sit back and wait for your money!
HYDROOTTAWA HEATING & COOLING INCENTIVES
You can get a $250 rebate when you upgrade your old furnace with an eligible high-efficiency furnace, provided it has an ECM motor. This program ends December 31 by this year, and your application form must be received by February at this year.
As with the other utility companies, just hire a contractor to purchase and install your new furnace and they will fill out and send the application in for you. All oil, electric, natural gas, and propane furnaces are eligible for an upgrade as long as they have an ECM motor. Then you will get an email for your review and approval. Send your approval along with your receipt, and you’ll see your money in 6 to 8 weeks!
ENBRIDGE HOME CONSERVATION PROGRAM
If your home is need of a new furnace, this program will give you $1,000 rebate for replacing a:
- less than 95% AFUE natural gas, propane, or oil furnace
- 89% or less AFUE natural gas, propane, or oil boiler with a 95% or higher AFUE condensing natural gas, propane, or oil furnace
- 90% or higher AFUE condensing natural gas, propane, or oil boiler
You need to book a home energy audit before you qualify for the upgrades, but the money you save is definitely worth it.
You can even get an additional $650 back for upgrading your furnace and air conditioner and incentives for up to $2,100 for retrofitting or up to $5,000 for installing 2 or more eligible measures and completing the pre-energy audit through the Home Energy Conservation Program if you are a qualified homeowner.
And there are additional incentives available as well. Book an appointment with a certified energy advisor to get started.
SAVE ON ENERGY HEATING & COOLING INCENTIVES PROGRAM
This is the program that administers all the furnace rebate programs offered by the local utility companies in Ontario. Don’t know what utility company offers this program in your community? Enter your postal code here to find out.
If you install a high-efficiency furnace, you could get a $250 rebate. It must be equipped with an ECM however. This program ends December this year, and your application form must be received by February at this year.
All you need to do is hire a contractor to buy and install the furnace, and they will fill out and send the application in for you. Then you will get an email for your review and approval. Send your approval along with your receipt, and then sit back and wait for your money!
SAVE ON ENERGY WHOLE HOME PROGRAM
Offered together with your local utility provider, the Whole Home Program allows all Ontario homeowners to benefit from a wide range of energy-saving rebates above and beyond just that new energy-efficient furnace you have your eye on. While you’re taking advantage of the furnace rebates, why not receive thousands of dollars in incentives to make upgrades throughout the rest of the house, use less energy, and save money?
To reap the rewards of this program, start by getting an energy assessment of your home, which helps you learn the best ways to reduce your energy use, such as replacing your furnace, replacing windows, or installing new or more insulation. Complete two upgrades and you could qualify for major rebates.
But why stop there? If the more you upgrade, the more you save, why not upgrade a few more items that could save you money? Homeowners can also take advantage of Save on Energy rebates on ENERGY STAR® electric appliances, such as $600 back on the purchase of a new central air conditioning system or $75 in your pocket when you replace your current refrigerator.
And it gets better if your home is electrically heated. You can qualify for a rebate of up to $5,800 to install an air-source heat pump and cut your electricity costs. Heat pump rebates are also available to customers with other types of home heating as well.
Here’s how it works:
- Contact a certified energy advisor.
- Your advisor visits your home and goes over every detail with you.
- Complete the upgrades.
- Do a post-assessment.
- Receive all your rebates
Don’t know what utility company offers this program in your community? Enter your postal code here to find out.
ONTARIO AFFORDABILITY FUND
If it seems energy efficiency is beyond your reach, and at the same time you don’t qualify for the low income programs available, Ontario’s Affordability Fund might be just what you need.
This program offers home energy assessments and energy-efficient upgrades and appliances to qualified residents. You may be able to have some or all of your furnace subsidized. All you have to do is visit their website and tell them how much your electricity bill and your total household income is, and they’ll tell you what you qualify for. You are not eligible for this program if you qualify for low-income energy assessment and upgrade programs though.
ONTARIO RENOVATES
This program offers forgivable loans of up to $20,000 to low-income homeowners who own and occupy substandard housing, so they can repair their dwellings to a minimum level of health and safety. The maximum amount varies by municipality.
However, the following repairs are eligible (including furnaces!):
- repair/replacement to remedy leaky roofs where deterioration is beyond practical repairs
- basement leaking
- mould/asbestos removal to eliminate a present health hazard
- fire safety items
- electrical defects
- repairs/replacement mandated by the local municipal Building Department
- replacing a furnace (or the home’s primary heat source) that has been flagged as obsolete and/or at the end of its useful life and/or beyond practical repair and/or has been tagged prohibiting use
- modifications to increase accessibility including:
- permanent installations of ramps
- handrails, chair, and bath lifts
- height adjustments to countertops
- cues for doorbells/fire alarms
These are the eligibility requirements:
- Applicants must own and occupy the home that requires work as their sole and principal residence.
- Maximum total household Canadian and foreign gross annual income must be at or below $60,000.
- Total household Canadian and foreign assets must be at or below $10,000.
- The assessed value of the home must not exceed $250,000.
- The mortgage, property taxes, and home insurance must be paid up-to-date, with no arrears owing.
- Repairs/replacement mandated by the local municipal Building Department
Approved applicants are required to sign a Loan Agreement to be registered on the title of the home. The cost of a legal representative and registration may also be an eligible cost under the program.
This program is available in many Ontario communities, so click on one of the communities listed below for the contact information for the Ontario Renovates programs available in your area or go to your municipality’s website.
TORONTO RENOVATES
Part of the Ontario Renovates program, the Toronto Renovates Homeowners Program offers funding for lower-income seniors and people with a disability who wish to make health, safety, and energy-efficiency repairs (including furnaces) or accessibility modifications to their homes. Funding is limited, however.
OTTAWA RENOVATES
As with other Ontario Renovates programs, the Ottawa program helps low-income households who own and occupy substandard housing to enable them to repair their dwellings to a minimum level of health and safety.
The Person with Disabilities Ontario Renovates offers financial assistance to households occupied by people with disabilities who require special modifications to improve accessibility to their residence.
Qualifying homeowners can receive a 10-year forgivable loan up to a maximum of $20,000 to help cover the costs of necessary work.
Ontario Renovates Program – Links to Specific Cities and Counties
TORONTO HOME ENERGY LOAN PROGRAM (HELP)
This program offers low-interest loans of up to $75,000 to qualifying homeowners interested in improving the energy and water efficiency of their home. The loans are paid back over time via installments on your property tax bill.
These loans are attached to the house rather than the homeowner, so if you move, the payments are taken over by the new owners.
Eligible upgrades include:
- high-efficiency furnaces, boilers, and air conditioners
- windows and doors
- insulation
- high-efficiency water heaters
- rooftop solar PV panels
- air sealing
- drain-water heat recovery systems
- toilets
- solar hot water systems
This loan helps homeowners avoid the high upfront cost of renovations and access up to $2,250 in incentives from utility companies. Once the loan is approved, homeowners can hire the contractor of their choice from the list of approved contractors and complete their renovations.
The maximum amount of the loan can’t be worth more than 10% of the value of your home or $75,000, whichever is less. This includes a 2% administrative charge.
You may qualify for a low-interest loan through HELP if:
- you own a detached, semi-detached, or row house,
- all the property owners on title agree to the program,
- your property tax and utility payments to the City are in good standing, and
- you get written consent from your mortgage lender, if applicable.
So in just 7 easy steps, you could have the most energy-efficient home on the block:
Complete an application form
Once the City receives and approves your application, you receive a funding offer that details the maximum funding amount your property is eligible to receive.
If your home is subject to a mortgage, they give you a letter and form for you to give to your mortgage lender. Your mortgage lender’s consent is required before you will receive the funding offer.
Book a home energy assessment
Book a home energy assessment with an energy advisor registered by Natural Resources Canada, (which will include a basement-to-attic assessment of your home’s insulation, heating and cooling systems, and any air leaks or drafts) and receive a Renovation Upgrade Report with recommendations for specific improvements, an EnerGuide® rating based on your home’s current energy performance, and information on available incentives and rebates.
Complete a funding request
Complete a funding request, determine what improvements you wish to make, and get quotes from the contractor(s) of your choice, based on your goals, budget, and the recommendations of the energy advisor. Your funding request has to include a list of intended improvements you wish to make, details and cost estimates based on contractor quote(s), and the estimated incentive and rebate amounts available to you from your utility company.
Sign and return the Property Owner Agreement
Sign and return the Property Owner Agreement the City sent you after approving your funding request. Once the City receives the signed agreement, they will give you up to 30% of the money you need to get started.
Complete your improvements
Complete your improvements and submit your project completion report with all contractor invoices and your new EnerGuide® rating label.
Book your post-retrofit home assessment
Book your post-retrofit home assessment with your energy advisor who will verify the improvements and provide a new EnerGuide® rating for your home. Once the City receives the report and supporting documents, it will send you the remaining funds.
Repay the loan over time
Repay the loan over time on your property tax bill. Once your project is complete, the City will tell you when your loan payments will begin. You will be enrolled in the City’s Pre-authorized Tax Payment plan and repay the City in 11 monthly installments per year over the term of your loan, and you can pay the outstanding balance at any time, without penalty.
Click here to apply now. For more information on the program, contact
Sarah Rodrigues, Program Coordinator
Home Energy Loan ProgramEnvironment & Energy DivisionCity of Toronto55 John Street, 2nd FloorToronto, ON M5V 3C6416-392-1826[email protected]
HAMILTON EMERGENCY REPAIR PROGRAM
This program offers a grant of up to $5,000 to Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program homeowners that need serious and urgent repairs to their home to avoid adversely affecting their household’s health and safety.
If your furnace is no longer working or has been deemed too dangerous to use, you will qualify for this program.
Additional eligibility requirements include the following:
- You must own a home in Hamilton that is your sole and principal residence valued at or below $330,000.
- You must have confirmation of home insurance and be able to prove you have exhausted all insurance(s) and funding sources as a remedy for the emergency before applying to this program.
- Your property must be registered in your name(s) and your mortgage, property taxes, and utilities must be up to date.
YORK REGION HOME REPAIR PROGRAM
Providing grants of up to $7,500 per year, with a lifetime maximum of $15,000, this program is available to homeowners who earn a low- to moderate-income to help pay for modifications and repairs to the home to help improve the quality of life for people with disabilities.
Eligible repairs and modifications include:
- ramps
- bathtub conversions to walk-in showers
- porch lifts and interior stair lifts
- raised toilets
- lighting improvements
- urgent repairs to roofs, windows, or other areas
- critical furnace repairs or replacements
- grab bars and handrails
So you can take advantage of this program if you meet the following criteria:
- own a home in York Region that is your primary residence
- home is worth less than the Home Value Eligibility Threshold for the municipality you live in
- combined household income is less than $79,697
- home needs modifications to accommodate a household member who has a disability
- modifications have not already been completed
Just download the application form and send it in with any supporting documents to
Home Repair Program Coordinator The Regional Municipality of York Community and Health Services Department Housing Services Branch 17250 Yonge Street, 3rd floor Newmarket, ON L3Y 6Z1
Quebec Furnace Rebates
ÉNERGIR (THE NEW GAZ METRO) WARM AIR FURNACE GRANT
Convert from an electrical heating system to a natural gas system and receive a $1,400 grant, regardless of which system you choose. And if you switch from your current oil-based heating system to a natural gas system, you’ll get as much as $2,000!
While you’ll have to cover the costs of connecting your home to the natural gas network, not only will Énergir spread the cost out over 2 years at just $12.50/month but the grant itself equals the cost of a year’s worth of heating a 1,700 sq. ft. home.
But act fast because this offer closes on May at this year! Call Énergir at 1 (800) 875-6202 to get started.
HYDRO-QUÉBEC HEATING REBATES
Have you considered replacing your current furnace with a dual energy (generally electric and fuel) heating system? This is one of the few programs that offer a rebate for this.
This is a cost-effective heating method worth looking into because each method—electricity and fuel—is billed at different rates. At warmer temperatures, the lower electricity rate is charged to your bill, and at colder temperatures, the lower fuel rate is applied to your bill. That way, you pay as little as possible.
Contact Hydro-Québec to apply.
Prince Edward Island Furnace Rebates
EFFICIENCY PEI HOME ENERGY AUDIT PROGRAM
You could use this program to not only receive rebates for upgrading your old furnace with a new, ENERGY STAR® oil or gas furnace but to discover all the energy- and money-saving opportunities for the rest of your house. And, if you go this route and schedule a $99 home assessment, your upgrade amounts will be enhanced by as much as $100 per household (depending on how many upgrades you make)!
To access this program, contact HomeSol Building Solutions to book your home evaluation. Then complete the assessment and receive an evaluation report with recommendations for your home. Once that’s done, contact efficiencyPEI to receive your enhanced rebates.
EFFICIENCY PEI EQUIPMENT UPGRADE REBATE
Replace your old money-draining furnace with a new ENERGY STAR®-certified oil or gas furnace and get one of these rebates (to a maximum of $5,000):
- regular rebate: $500
- low-income rebate Lvl 1: $850 (incomes between $20,001 and $35,000)
- low-income rebate Lvl 2: $1,700 (incomes $20,000 and under)
This is all you have to do:
- confirm your eligibility according to the terms and conditions as outlined on the application form,
- completely fill out the application form because incomplete information will delay or disqualify your rebate,
- collect the dated sales receipt showing where the unit was purchased and the make and model numbers of the unit installed, and
- mail this rebate with original copies of dated receipt(s) and your most recent Maritime Electric/Summerside Electric bill to efficiencyPEI.
SENIORS HOME REPAIR PROGRAM
You qualify for this program if you’re over 60 and have a yearly net household income of $35,000 or less.
You could receive up to 50% of the cost, to a maximum of $2,000, to assist with eligible repairs such as roofs, windows and doors, or furnaces that require essential repairs to help with the health and safety of the house.
Download the application form and send it with proof of income (i.e., Notice of Assessment) to the address on the application form. Applicants should send two estimates of the total work cost when they send in the application form.
HOME ENERGY LOW INCOME PROGRAM
This program won’t get you a new furnace, or repair one either, but it will give you a voucher for furnace cleaning (up to $80 in value), which is an important component of keeping your furnace running smoothly and avoiding unnecessary emergency repairs.
If you’re eligible, you’ll also receive comprehensive air-sealing (such as caulking, weather-stripping, sealing gaskets) free of charge as well as the following:
- programmable thermostat
- a low-flow showerhead
- a quantity of ENERGY STAR® LED light bulbs
To be eligible you must meet these requirements:
- You must be a resident of PEI with a total household income of $50,000 or less.
- You must own and live in the residence or pay the total heating costs if you rent.
- The property must be your primary residence or a year-round rental property.
If you’re interested in participating, simply download the application form and send it along with your proof of income to the address on the form
Saskatchewan Furnace Rebates
Emergency Home Repairs
You qualify for this program if you’re over 60 and have a yearly net household income of $35,000 or less.
You could receive up to 50% of the cost, to a maximum of $2,000, to assist with eligible repairs such as roofs, windows and doors, or furnaces that require essential repairs to help with the health and safety of the house.
Download the application form and send it with proof of income (i.e., Notice of Assessment) to the address on the application form. Applicants should send two estimates of the total work cost when they send in the application form.
SASKENERGY FINANCING PROGRAM
SaskEnergy has you covered if you’ve decided it’s time to buy a new furnace but you don’t qualify for the Emergency Home Repair Program. You can apply for this low-interest (OAC) loan wherever you buy your new furnace, and you can spread out over 5 years (sometimes even as long as 12 to 15 years). It even includes the cost of installation!
With no down payment required and no penalty for paying it off early, there is no reason not to take advantage of it!
Yukon Furnace Rebates
GOOD ENERGY RENOVATIONS REBATE
With this program, book a home energy assessment and you could qualify for a rebate when you upgrade your furnace. It’s easy!
Just book an appointment with a certified energy advisor and discuss any needed changes you should make and decide on a plan. Your advisor will work with you to determine the right furnace make or model and more. Following their recommendations will get you your rebate. Then schedule a follow-up appointment for when the work is complete, and then you can apply for your rebate.
These are examples of eligible furnace rebate options:
- $800 rebate for wood or pellet furnaces or boilers
- $600 rebate for pellet stoves
- $300 rebate for wood stoves
- oil furnaces
- propane furnaces
- boiler and combination systems
Check their website for technical requirements.
Once you’ve had your assessment, purchased your furnace, and had it inspected, you can apply for a heating system rebate. Just complete and sign the heating systems rebate application and send it in with your advisor’s upgrade report detailing your furnace upgrades, your materials and costs worksheet (optional), and the remaining required documents to the Energy Solutions Centre.
These are the remaining required documents:
- approved City or territorial inspection report?
- itemized receipts with zero balance owing and/or
- itemized invoices noted “paid in full” and initialed by supplier
- ENERGY STAR®/CSA/EPA documentation
HOME REPAIR LOAN
If you’ve already used the Good Energy program or you simply don’t want to have a home assessment done, consider this low-interest—and in some cases forgivable—loan to purchase and install your furnace.
Borrow up to $50,000 (loans for homes on leased or rented land only qualify for $20,000) at just 1% above prime and spread your payments out over 15 years to make getting that much-needed furnace affordable. If you have a low- or moderate-income, you could also qualify for a forgivable or subsidized loan.
To apply, download the application form and send it with your Notice of Assessment, any building permits, a Verification of Income form from your employer, your most recent property tax bill paid in full, and a Certificate of Home Insurance (if one exists) to
Yukon Housing CorporationBox 2703 (Y-1)Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 2C6
For more information, contact Yukon Housing Corporation in one of the following ways:
Phone: (867) 667-5759 Toll-free (in Yukon): 1-800-661-0408 ext. 5759Fax: (867) 667-3664Email: [email protected]
11 Tips to Maximize Your Rebates & Maintain Your Furnace
So you have to replace your furnace, or after reading through all these programs, you’ve decided to upgrade your furnace…
How do you make your way through the rebate process easily and successfully so you don’t pay more than you have to?
There are a few things to keep in mind when you take advantage of any rebate or repair and replacement program:
Keep your receipts
While everyone may tell you this, it’s still always the most important step. No one likes to give away money, so don’t give them a reason to turn down your application. Keep your receipts and make copies of them and all other necessary documents! All programs require receipts. Without them or other documents such as Notice of Assessments; Verification of Income forms; or permits, plans, and reports; you’ll end up losing out.
Many of these programs also need copies or originals of quotes and invoices, so the more photocopies you have of everything, the better!
Also be aware that some of these programs want all your supporting documents signed, so I’d suggest signing everything just to be safe.
Follow the steps for each program EXACTLY
Make sure you follow the steps for each program exactly. They’re laid out the way they are for a reason, and if you leapfrog or miss one, or miss a deadline, you won’t get your rebate. Each program has different eligibilities, requirements, and steps, so read through them twice, and then read through them again. Then as you’re about complete one step, be reading the next step again.
Some programs require a home assessment
Some of these programs require you have a home assessment done, so if a new furnace is your focus, tell them that and ask specific questions so you have all the information you could possibly need.
Always choose a contractor from the available list
When choosing a contractor, always choose from the available list provided by your chosen program. They’ve already been through the organization’s vetting process and are familiar with steps, requirements, and equipment.
If someone calls or shows up on your doorstep offering to replace your furnace or another appliance so you get this rebate or that one—walk away. Legitimate, certified contractors working with these programs will never cold call.
If you’ve booked an appointment with a contractor already or someone claims to be from one of these programs, call the company directly and they’ll be happy to verify the credentials.
Do your research
Do your research before beginning your new furnace journey. There are many different furnace types, brands, and models, and you want to be certain you’ve purchased the right model for your needs. Consider where you live: is it cheaper to heat your home with electricity, natural gas, oil, propane, wood, or a combination? What is most available in your area? Do you have an older home with older components or a brand new home? Are you upgrading for energy efficiency or do you just want to stay warm for less?Whatever your purpose is for buying a new furnace, make sure that at the very least, you buy an ENERGY STAR® model. They will be guaranteed to qualify for rebates.
Once you’ve purchased your new furnace, had it installed, and gotten your rebate, make sure you don’t have to do that again for a long, long time. Follow these tips for maintaining your furnace and extending its life span:
Reduce the amount of work the fan has to do each day
Reduce the amount of work the fan has to do each day by turning your thermostat down (or programming it) when you’re not home. Professionals recommend turning it down to 18°C.
Replace your furnace filters no less than every 3 months
Dust build up also makes your fan have to work harder. So make sure you replace your furnace filters no less than every 3 months. This will also keep the air you breathe a lot cleaner. Make sure you use filters rated MERV 6 or higher.
Switch your fan from continuous mode to auto mode
Your fan won’t have to work so hard or so often and you’ll save money and energy.
Have a licensed contractor clean your furnace every fall
?Have a licensed contractor come in and clean your furnace every fall. Ensure they vacuum the burner, remove and clean the blower, and clean the pilot light and the flame sensor.
Have your ducts and intake cleaned every year
While you’re at it, have your ducts and intake cleaned every year as well to keep your air clean and prevent dust, lint, and hair build up in the vents and filters.
Keep the area around your furnace clear of clutter
And the easiest step you can take to ensure your new furnace works its best for as long as it can is to simply keep the area around your furnace clear of clutter.
There you have it! Just take advantage of the programs that work for you and follow these simple steps to maintain your new furnace and—barring a natural disaster—you’ll always be toasty warm!
Leave a Reply