Geothermal Technology: An Overview

Introduction

Geothermal technology is an alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems. Geothermal systems use the relatively constant temperature of the ground to regulate the temperature of a home or building. These systems move heat from the ground to the home or building for heating — and in the opposite direction for cooling.

Geothermal systems are also sometimes referred to as:

• Earth energy systems;
• Ground-source heat pumps;
• Water-source heat pumps;
• Geothermal heat pump systems; or
• GeoExchange™ technology.

A typical geothermal system is made up of four main parts:

• a heat pump
• a ground loop system
• heat transfer fluid
• an air distribution system

Geothermal Systems

There are two types of geothermal systems: open loop and closed loop.

Open Loop

In an open loop system, groundwater is pumped from a well, or series of wells, into a heat pump. The heat pump then extracts the heat collected in the water, the heat transfer fluid in this case, and distributes it throughout the building. This type of system can also cool a building by extracting heat from the indoor air and then transferring it to the water circulating through the system.  Once the water has run through the geothermal system, if is then injected back into the aquifer through a well or discharged to a stream, river, lake or pond.

Closed Loop

There are two types of a closed loop systems: vertical and horizontal. In either case, a series of pipes are buried underground, either in vertical holes drilled into the ground or in horizontal trenches.

In a closed loop system, the heat transfer fluid in the pipes absorbs heat from the ground and is then circulated to a heat pump. The heat pump then extracts the heat collected in the heat transfer fluid in this case, and distributes it throughout the building. During the winter, the chilled fluid is then pumped back into the loop to extract more heat from the ground. During the summer, the opposite occurs. In a closed-loop system, the heat transfer fluid flows through the pipes and never comes in contact with the soil or bedrock.

General Information

1. What’s New?

   On March 31, 2010, the federal government announced funding cuts to the ecoEnergy Retrofit Homes Program. This means that homeowners who booked a pre-retrofit audit before March 31, 2010 can access grants from both the federal government as well as the Ontario Home Energy Savings program. Until further notice, homeowners who booked an audit after March 31, 2010 can only access grants from the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program

   The Government of Ontario is committed to encouraging conservation, and will continue efforts to help residents achieve their home energy efficiency goals. 
   The following information is provided to help answer some of your questions about how the federal announcement might affect you. Please visit the main HESP website again in the future for updates.

   a. What effect does this announcement have on the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program (HESP)?

   Due to the sudden nature of the federal announcement to cancel a partnership program, Ontario is reviewing its options to create and deliver effective conservation programs to Ontarians. Until such time a decision is made and notice given, Ontario will continue to fund new pre-retrofit audits and retrofits. This means we will continue to pay 50% of your home’s audit, up to $150. Audits will qualify you for up to $5,000 in provincial retrofit grants. Please continue to check back here for further information and updates.

   b. Can I still enter the federal ecoENERGY-Retrofit program?

   No. Effective March 31, 2010, the federal program is not providing grants for new pre-audits that are booked.

   Only the homeowners who have already booked or completed a pre-retrofit evaluation by March 31, 2010 remain eligible to apply for a federal retrofit grant.

   c. How does the date that I book my pre-retrofit audit affect my ability to access grants?

   Homeowners who scheduled pre-retrofit evaluations by March 31, 2010 remain eligible to apply to both the HESP and ecoENERGY programs. Homeowners are reminded that they are required to complete their renovations and follow-up with a post-retrofit evaluation and submit their application by March 31, 2011.

   Homeowners who scheduled a pre-retrofit evaluation after March 31, 2010 remain eligible to apply to the HESP program only.

   d. How much of a retrofit grant am I eligible for?

   Homeowners who scheduled pre-retrofit evaluations by March 31, 2010 remain eligible to apply to both HESP and ecoENERGY for a maximum of up to $10,000. Homeowners who scheduled a pre-retrofit evaluation after March 31, 2010 remain eligible to apply to the HESP program only, with rebates to a maximum of $5,000.

   e. I have already had a pre-retrofit energy evaluation. What is the deadline for applying for a grant?

   The deadline for applying for a grant is 18 months from the time of the pre-retrofit evaluation or March 31, 2011, whichever comes first. Homeowners who have completed the eligible work under the ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes program within their 18-month period or before March 31, 2011, (whichever comes first) are eligible for a grant. However, it is suggested that you complete your energy upgrades well in advance of the deadline in order to allow enough time for your post-retrofit evaluation.

   f. I have more questions about the recent changes to the federal ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes program. Who should I contact?

   Please call Natural Resources Canada at 1-800-O-CANADA (1-800-622-6232). The call agents from the federal program will be able to provide you with more information.

2. How much can I get back?
   Ontario Home Energy Savings Program provides home and property owners with retrofit grants of up to $5,000 in total. The amount of your grant will depend on the upgrades you complete. Please refer to the grant chart for the incentive amounts for each qualifying upgrade. .

3. How do I get started?
   Your first step is to consider if you are ready to invest in renovations that will save energy and money. Once you are ready, contact a licensed service organization to book an appointment for your energy assessment. Although all renovations started prior to obtaining a pre-retrofit energy assessment are not eligible for a grant, the home must be in such a state (including proper doors, windows, and roof) that the energy advisor can assess the building to make recommendations for improvement.

4. How much can homeowners expect to save in terms of annual energy use and greenhouse gas emissions?
   Naturally, that depends on the condition of the home and the types of upgrades that are undertaken. Based on the average rebate amount, homeowners participating in the Retrofit Component of the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program will typically achieve up to a 30% reduction in energy use, as well as an average annual reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of about 3 tonnes of carbon dioxide. Typically, this translates into annual savings of $600 a year on a $2,000 annual heating bill.

5. If I want to sell my home after I have completed my upgrades can I get a certificate from the government to show that my home is energy efficient and that this work has been undertaken?
   The information in your post-retrofit audit — plus your new EnerGuide rating label — can make a great package when you’re selling your home. If a potential homebuyer is interested in your home’s total annual energy costs, they will also be very interested in the upgrades you completed as part of your retrofit.

6. Will personal information about my home be secure and protected?
   Yes. Any personal information collected is protected under Ontario’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

7. Where can I get more information about the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program?
   If you still have questions after reading this website, please call the Ontario Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure Call Info Line at 1-888-668-4636 for more information about the Ontario Home Energy Savings Programs.

Eligibility

1. What is an example of a retrofit project that is eligible for Ontario Home Energy Savings Program?
   Example 1: Eligible for Grant

   • You are interested in saving money by improving the energy efficiency of your home.
   • Since you must have an energy evaluation conducted to qualify for a grant under the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program, you hire the services of a Natural Resources Canada certified energy advisor in your area, who visits your home and conducts a basement-to-attic energy audit/assessment in your home.
   • Your energy advisor sends you a home energy evaluation report and submits an audit grant application on your behalf. You will receive up to $150 from the Province of Ontario to offset the cost of the pre-retrofit audit.
   • Based on the evaluation report you received from the advisor, you decide which energy upgrades you want to do and determine that you could receive a grant of up to $3,000. You proceed with your energy retrofits.
   • Once you have completed the work, you contact your energy advisor to perform a post-retrofit evaluation to confirm your home’s new energy rating and to submit another grant application on your behalf. You will then receive a retrofit grant cheque from the Government of Ontario.

2. What is an example of a retrofit project that is NOT eligible for Ontario Home Energy Savings Program?
   Example 2: Not Eligible for Grant

   • You have heard there are grants available to improve the energy efficiency of your home.
   • You decide to replace your windows and a patio door where you think your home is losing heat.
   • You have them installed learn that you are not eligible for a retrofit grant because a pre-retrofit energy evaluation was not performed before the windows and doors were installed.

3. What types of properties are eligible for a grant?
   The program offers grants to owners of low-rise residential properties defined under Parts 2 and 9 of the National Building Code of Canada. These include single detached and attached homes (e.g. row housing, duplexes and triplexes), small multi-unit residential buildings including some small apartment buildings of three stories or less built on a maximum footprint area of 600 square metres or less; mobile homes on a permanent foundation and floating homes permanently moored also qualify.

4. I recently built (or am building) a house. Am I eligible for a grant?
   No. The program does not apply to new construction because they are already quite efficient. A house is considered new construction up to six months after the builder has transferred the house to the homeowner. When a home is built by the owner, it is considered new up to six months following the certificate of completion by the local inspector.

5. Do existing homes and multi-unit residential buildings of any age qualify?
   There is no restriction as to the age of an existing house or building but those built before 1985 will benefit the most as they have the potential for more significant energy-saving improvements.

6. Does municipal housing also qualify?
   Yes, homes held by municipal social housing agencies are welcome to participate in the Home Energy Audit and Retrofit Programs, as long as they meet the criteria that apply to single family homes. Agencies with multi-unit residential buildings that meet the requirements are eligible for up to $500,000 from the Government of Ontario.

7. I rent a house. Can I participate?
   Yes, any rental property that meets the eligibility criteria can participate.

   Please note: It is the property owner who is eligible for the rebate. Please speak with your landlord if you wish to participate.

8. I own rental properties. How much am I eligible for?
   Owners of multi-unit low-rise residential buildings are eligible to receive up to $500,000 over the life of the retrofit program. The maximum grant per dwelling unit is $5,000.

9. I own a fully-serviced four season property which is not my primary residence. Am I eligible for a retrofit grant?
   An eligible property is based on specific definitions under the National Building code, and not on the time spent in the dwelling. If the property meets the criteria, it qualifies for a retrofit grant.

10. Is Aboriginal housing eligible under the program?
    Yes. First Nation, Band Council and Tribal Council housing is eligible under the program — and according to the same rules that generally apply to the program. The maximum rebate available for one home or per dwelling unit of a multi-unit residential building is $5,000.

    Owners of multi-unit residential buildings are eligible for up to $500,000 in grants over the life of the program. Please note, however, that the 18 month time limit for completing the upgrades and post-retrofit audit is waived for eligible aboriginal housing in the event of delays in getting necessary materials to the site and in obtaining approvals.

11. Why is a high-rise residential property excluded from the program?
    High-rise buildings are excluded because they work differently and have their energy efficiency assessed differently than low-rise buildings. For example, the heating, cooling and hot water systems are clearly very different in size, complexity and type. High-rises also have common areas and services (such as elevators) and different construction details (such as depressurization zones for fire control).

12. I live in a condominium town home, can I participate?
    Yes, all low-rise condominium properties that meet the eligibility criteria can participate. The low-rise residential property must be covered under Parts 2 and 9 of the National Building Code of Canada, which is a small apartment buildings of three stories or less built on a maximum footprint area of 600 square metres or less. You may find that your condominium corporation imposes some additional requirements, some of which may require you to obtain condominium board authorization before you undertake an audit or retrofit. Other condominium regulations may stipulate who receives payment — you or your condominium corporation. It is highly recommended that you clarify these matters with your condominium corporation before you begin.

13. Is co-op housing eligible?
    Yes.

14. I am not a Canadian citizen, but I own rental properties in Ontario. Can I participate and receive a rebate?
    You do not have to be a Canadian citizen to participate in the program. You must simply own a home that meets the eligibility criteria, and your rebate cheque must be mailed to a location in Canada. Owners of multi-unit residential buildings are eligible for $500,000 from the Government of Ontario.

15. If I complete a pre-and post-retrofit audit, am I eligible for both, a provincial and federal rebate for the retrofit work I completed?
    No. Effective March 31, 2010, the federal program is not accepting new bookings for pre-retrofit evaluations. Only the homeowners who have already booked or completed a pre-retrofit evaluation remain eligible to apply for a federal retrofit grant.

16. Are multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs) assessments available in all regions?
    Energy advisors qualified to evaluate multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs) are not available in all regions. To find out if there is an energy advisor qualified to evaluate a MURB in your region, go to the Contact an energy advisor page on our website and enter your postal code.

17. Are grants and incentives available for the construction of energy efficient new homes?
    The program does not apply to new construction because they are already quite efficient. You may also want to consider contacting Home Builder’s Associations and Utilities for information on local and regional programs and incentives. A house is considered new construction up to six months after the builder has transferred the house to the homeowner. When a home is built by the owner, it is considered new up to six months following the certificate of completion by the local inspector.

18. When is a recreational property eligible for a retrofit grant?
    In order to qualify for a grant, the recreational property must be a fully-serviced four season property, meeting the specific definitions under the National Building Code, parts 2 and 9. The recreational property does not have to be the primary residence of the owner. Recreational properties, such as cottages, cabins, chalets etc, that do not meet these requirements, are not eligible for a retrofit grant.

19. I own an older mobile home in a trailer park where I rent the land. I have lived in it for several years and I want to know the definition of a fixed foundation to qualify for a grant. It sits on timbers, is skirted and has never been moved.
    When the homeowner owns and occupies a mobile home but rents or leases the lot (i.e., mobile home park), the home is eligible for the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program, provided it is on a permanent foundation. A mobile home can be considered permanently fixed if it sits on a foundation of concrete, wood or steel (i.e., a mobile home on wood cribbing with a plywood or vinyl apron would qualify though regional requirements may negate use of aprons); it is structurally complete with entire plumbing, heating and electrical services installed and permanently connected to the appropriate electrical utility service, fuel service, sewer or septic service and water delivery system/service Its towing apparatus and axle must have been removed as per regional requirements.

    The mobile home owner must show his or her property tax bill as required for the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program application process.

20. Does a floating home qualify under this program?
    Yes, floating homes can participate in the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program. Floating homes are homes designed and built to local building codes and typically secured to wharfs where utilities and mooring charges are available (similar to mobile home parks). Floating homes are designed to be occupied year round and for grant purposes, must have a property tax roll number in the name of the homeowner. Floating homes are not boats or house boats, have no engines and are similar in nature to homes and cottages depending on their design.

21. If a former school, church or commercial property is converted into a permanent residential property, is it eligible for a retrofit grant?
    No, these types of structures are not eligible for a retrofit grant because they were originally built according to a building code which had different requirements and were intended for non residential use. As such they are not low-rise residential properties as defined under Parts 2 and 9 of the National Building Code of Canada.

Audit Grant Component

1. What does a Home Energy Audit consist of?
   During your Home Energy Audit, an energy advisor will conduct a room-by-room assessment of your home including your attic, basement and crawlspaces. Your advisor will measure your home and determine how much of it is covered by windows, doors and skylights. They will inspect your insulation as well as your heating, cooling, ventilation and other equipment. Your advisor will also perform a “blower door” air tightness test to detect air leaks. Your audit will be easy and unobtrusive and should only take about 1 and a half to 3 hours, depending on the size and configuration of your house.

2. What does a Home Energy Audit tell you?
   A Home Energy Audit calculates how frequently the air in your house is exchanged. The rate of exchange affects your home’s heating requirements. All the information gathered during your audit is entered into a software model that calculates the energy efficiency rating of your home. You’ll also find out how much your home’s energy efficiency rating can improve if you complete recommended retrofits.

3. If I got my audit prior to the provincial program announcements, do I still qualify for the rebate?
   To qualify for the Home Energy Audit Program, the audit must have been done on or after March 23, 2007.

4. When can I apply for the audit rebate?
   There is no need to apply. The energy advisor performing your audit submits the information on your behalf to Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) within 30 days of the audit. NRCan will then transfer the file to Ontario for a provincial audit grant cheque to be issued.

5. How much do audits cost?
   The cost of a pre-retrofit audit typically ranges between $300 and $400. There is also a cost for your post-retrofit audit once you have completed your works. Companies may offer package deals like paying up front for the pre- and post-retrofit audits or other options in order to provide you with a lower price. You should contact several companies and ask about the service they will provide before selecting the company you would like to hire to perform your audit.

6. I won a free home energy audit service at a contest. Can I still receive the audit grant?
   No. You must have paid for the home energy audit to receive the grant.

7. My realtor offered to pay for my home energy audit as part of the promotion of his service. Can I still receive the audit grant?
   No. The audit grant is designed to help homeowners offset the cost of a home energy audit. You must have paid for the home energy audit to receive the audit grant. To be eligible for the audit, you realtor could give you a cash refund equivalent to the cost of audit, and you can then use the cash to pay for the audit directly. Then you will be eligible for the grant.

8. My realtor offered to pay for my home energy audit as part of the promotion of his service. Will my realtor receive the audit grant?
   No. The audit grant is designed to help homeowners offset the cost of a home energy audit. To ensure that the grant benefits the homeowners as intended (and not to third parties), we will only issue grant cheques to owners of property. You realtor could give you a cash refund equivalent to the cost of audit, and you can then use the cash to pay for the audit directly. Then you will be eligible for the grant.

9. Do I get the rebate for the audit even if I do not retrofit my home?
   Yes.

10. I own a Multi-Unit Residential Building (MURB), do I receive a higher grant amount for the energy audit of my MURB?
    No. Your energy advisor will submit one home energy evaluation file for your MURB. Since the audit grant is processed on per-file bases, the maximum amount is $150 regardless of the number of units in the building.  Owner of a Multi-Unit Residential Building can get a maximum of $150 audit grant per residential property.

11. I own several residential properties that are separate from each other, how much energy audit grants can I receive?
    The audit grant is processed on per-file bases, the maximum amount per file is $150. Each of your residential is a separate file and your energy advisor will submit an individual file for each of your property. You will get up to $150 for each of the properties that completed a home energy audit.

12. Do I have to use the same energy audit company for the pre and post-retrofit audit? What happens if the company that performs my first (pre-retrofit) energy assessment no longer offers the service when I am ready for my post-retrofit audit?
    In most cases, the same audit company will do both your pre and post-retrofit home audit. If your audit company no longer offers the service when you need to do your second (post-retrofit) audit, you can call another audit company.

    Your new energy advisor will need to provide some key information to Natural Resources Canada in order to get your electronic file. That information includes: your file number (located on the top right-hand corner of the first page of your Energy Efficiency Evaluation Report), your name and address as it appeared on your first report and your phone number. Once your new energy advisor has your file, you can schedule your post-retrofit audit.

13. If the energy advisor is also a retrofit contractor, has Natural Resources Canada also licensed him/her to do retrofit work?
    Energy Advisors are licensed by NRCan to do Home Energy Audits. That license does not relate to the retrofit work although some energy advisors also offer renovation services. It is your responsibility to engage a contractor that you feel will perform the work satisfactorily and at an acceptable price.

14. How do I choose an energy advisor?
    In a recent survey, the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI) released recommendations to assist homeowners in choosing a certified energy advisor to conduct energy assessments in the home. Here is an excerpt from that survey:

    First and foremost, the OAHI recommends contacting two to three licensed service organizations before booking an energy assessment. Secondly, the OAHI recommends the homeowner ask the following questions: 

    Are they licensed by Natural Resources Canada to perform assessments to qualify for the ecoENERGY rebates?

    How long will the energy assessment take?
    Beware of short visits – a good assessment should take 1.5-2.5 hours.

    Is there any obligation to purchase products or services from the service organization?
    No, there is no obligation to purchase products or services from the service organization that performs an energy assessment. However, many service organizations have the capacity to provide additional retrofit services, over and above an energy assessment.

    Beyond energy assessments, what else does the organization do to support the environment?
    ODo they have experience in emerging energy efficiency technologies, e.g. instantaneous hot water tanks, solar hot water, etc.

    In terms of cost, what does your fee include?
    The initial D assessment, the D and the E (post retrofit assessment). 

    “Price should never be the deciding factor when choosing a home energy assessor,” said Andrew Dixon, Past President of the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors. “Your home is your most valuable asset and you should compare the level of experience and time spent in your home to ensure you get the most thorough assessment possible.”

    The OAHI is dedicated to enhancing the technical skills and professional practices of Home Inspectors, and maintaining high professional standards through education and discipline. For more information on the OAHI, please visit www.oahi.com

15. Do I have to make any preparations before the energy advisor visits my home?
    The energy advisor will need access to every room in the house, in addition to the attic and any crawl spaces that may exist. Please be sure to clear the area around these access points before the energy advisor arrives.

    Also ensure that the hatch or door to the attic is not sealed as accessing the attic is an important part of both the first evaluation and the evaluation that is done once retrofits are complete. In addition, please make sure not to use any wood-heating appliances, such as fireplaces or wood stoves, at least 24 hours prior to the evaluation and clean the appliances before the evaluation.

16. Do I get an energy rating of my house?
    Yes. In addition to the personalized action checklist that is used to calculate the grant, the energy advisor provides the homeowner with an EnerGuide rating and label for the house, before and after renovations. Any personal information that owners provide is protected under Ontario’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Becoming an Energy Advisor

1. How does my company become an NRCan-licensed service organization and participate in a Request for Proposal (RFP) process?
   To join our roster of NRCan-licensed Service Organizations, please check this NRCan website regularly to view new RFP requests.

2. I am a professional renovator. Can I deliver the energy assessment service as well as provide my renovation services to my customers?
   Yes. Qualified renovators are allowed to obtain a licence to provide the energy assessment service. This is intended to offer the homeowner a faster service. Of course, it is always at the discretion of the homeowner to make the decision about who will perform the upgrades, and renovators must meet the same stringent requirements as independent service organizations. Please read previous question for more details.

3. How can I become an energy advisor?
   If you’re interested in becoming an energy advisor, contact an NRCan licensed service organization. Service organizations are responsible for recruiting and training energy advisors to meet their needs. Please note that in order to be considered as an energy advisor candidate, you must possess and demonstrate, as a minimum, knowledge and skills in areas such as construction practices for existing low-rise housing; energy-efficient renovation practices; residential building materials; residential heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; building science, including the principles of the “house as a system”; basic arithmetic and geometry; the use of computers, modems, the Internet and e-mail; and good client relations.

   You can search for service organizations in your area on our web site.

Retrofit

1. How much do the upgrades covered by the Ontario Home Energy Savings program cost?
   It depends on the type of upgrades undertaken. Costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

2. What sorts of renovations are done?

   Typical improvements include:

   • “Weatherizing” a home by installing weather stripping and sealing leaks with caulking.
   • Replacing the furnace, boiler and air conditioner with new high efficiency models.
   • Adding insulation to attics and basements.
   • Replacing old windows with new energy efficient ones.
   • Installing a domestic solar hot water system.

3. Are the grants based on how much I spend for upgrades?
   No. The grant is based on the individual upgrades completed. A flat incentive amount has been calculated for each qualifying upgrade, and the upgrades that save the most energy have the highest value. The potential grant is calculated by adding the total incentive amounts of the upgrades recommended in the Energy Efficiency Evaluation Report’s action checklist that is presented by your energy advisor. This makes it easier for you to decide which renovations you want to carry out from the action checklist and in which order you would like to complete them. The grant is based on the total amounts for those retrofits you have completed.

4. Is the retrofit rebate taxable?
   No.

5. If I do the retrofit myself, how do I get my rebates?
   Even if you do the work yourself, you still need to get the two required energy audits — one before you start and one after your renovations are complete. Both audits must be done by a licensed energy advisor. Your energy advisor will submit the paperwork for the rebates on your behalf.

   Remember to keep a copy of the invoices for the materials purchased for the upgrades as you may be asked to submit a copy to Natural Resources Canada. Homeowners are responsible for ensuring that they obtain all necessary permits and meet all municipal and provincial requirements.

6. What happens if I am not satisfied by the retrofit work completed?
   Each homeowner is responsible for ensuring the renovations undertaken are satisfactory prior to undertaking the post-retrofit audit by a Natural Resources Canada licensed energy advisor.

7. I have heard that professional renovation companies can apply to be licensed, allowing them to deliver my Home Energy Audit as well as provide my renovation services. Is this true?
   Yes. Renovators can qualify and obtain a license to provide the energy audit service. They must meet the same stringent requirements as independent service organizations that provide audits. Of course, it is up to you to make the decision about who will perform the home audit and who will be selected to perform your renovations.

8. I already started my renovations, can I still apply for a rebate?
   Unfortunately, any renovations that started prior to obtaining a pre-retrofit energy assessment are not eligible for a rebate. All energy-related renovations that you undertake after doing a pre-retrofit audit are eligible as long as they are listed in the Eligible Improvements/Retrofits table in the Energy Efficiency Evaluation Report that your energy advisor provides.

9. My furnace (or boiler) broke down. Am I eligible for a grant?
   As of April 1 2010, in the case of a furnace (or boiler) that has broken down, a pre-retrofit evaluation MUST be performed BEFORE replacing it in order to be eligible for a grant under the program.

10. My air conditioner broke down. Am I eligible for a grant?
    In the case of an air conditioner (window or central system) that has broken down, a pre-retrofit evaluation MUST be performed BEFORE replacing it in order to be eligible for a grant under the program.

1. Where can I get more information regarding technical retrofit questions (e.g. requirements for low-flush toilets, CSA standards for solar domestic or hot water systems)?
   For technical retrofit questions and questions about the federal ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes Program please visit www.ecoaction.gc.ca or call toll-free 1-800 O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) or 1-800-926-9105 for the hearing impaired.

2. I am replacing a Bow window consisting of 5 window units. Under the retrofit rebate, do the windows qualify as 5 separate units or one unit?
   Natural Resources Canada sets the guidelines and determines the eligible rebate amount. Under the current guidelines, one unit of window is defined as one opening in the wall. A large window consisting of multiple panels of glass is counted as one opening in the wall, regardless of how large the window is, or how many units of window is needed to fill the opening. Therefore the Bow window will be counted as one window. The same applies for bay windows.

3. What are the requirements for low-flush toilets and how can I find the list of qualified products?
   For technical retrofit questions and questions about the federal ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes Program please visit http://www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca/residential/personal/retrofit-homes/questions-answers.cfm?attr=4 or call toll-free 1-800 O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) or 1-800-926-9105 for the hearing impaired.

4. Do external doors qualify for a retrofit grant?
   Yes, providing you replace both the door and the frame with an ENERGY STAR qualified product. Replacing only the door does not qualify for a grant.

   For further information on ENERGY STAR certified products, visit: www.energystar.gc.ca.

5. Which manufacturers of Drain-Water Heat Recovery Systems are eligible under the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program?
   Ontario Home Energy Savings Program matches the grant amount of the federal ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes program. For a list of manufacturers and technical retrofit questions, please visit the federal program website at http://www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca/residential/personal/retrofit-homes/questions-answers.cfm?attr=4 or call toll-free 1-800 O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) or 1-800-926-9105 for the hearing impaired.

6. What are the CSA standards for solar domestic hot water systems?
   For technical retrofit questions and questions about the federal ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes Program please visit www.ecoaction.gc.ca or call toll-free 1-800 O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) or 1-800-926-9105 for the hearing impaired.

7. What is the effective thermal resistance of foil-faced bubble insulation and other similar products recognized by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) to model homes?
   For technical retrofit questions and questions about the federal ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes Program please visit www.ecoaction.gc.ca or call toll-free 1-800 O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) or 1-800-926-9105 for the hearing impaired.

8. What should I look for in an earth energy system (i.e., GeoExchange™, geothermal, ground- or water-source heat pump)?
   For technical retrofit questions and questions about the federal ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes Program please visit www.ecoaction.gc.ca or call toll-free 1-800 O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) or 1-800-926-9105 for the hearing impaired.

9. I am considering replacing my windows, doors and skylights. What should I know before I make my decision?
   The replacement of windows, doors and skylights with models that are ENERGY STAR qualified are eligible for the retrofit grant. Following a pre-retrofit (D) evaluation with a certified energy advisor, the homeowner should visit the ENERGY STAR web site before purchasing any new windows, doors or skylights, to ensure that the new models are qualified for their climate zone.

   In order to receive the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program grant, proof of ENERGY STAR qualification for the climate zone must be shown to the Energy Advisor during the post-retrofit (E) evaluation of the home. Important: NRCan will ONLY accept one of the following as proof of ENERGY STAR qualification :

   • The presence of an ENERGY STAR label on all of the replacement windows, doors or skylights indicating that they are ENERGY STAR qualified for the house’s climate zone (if the labels are removed by the installer, the homeowner should request them as proof). View sample ENERGY STAR labels.
   • A copy of an invoice indicating the brand/product name, and the NRCan model reference number or the manufacturer’s model code, as well as the climate zone for which the windows, doors or skylights are qualified. With this information, the energy advisor should then consult theENERGY STAR web site to confirm that they are indeed ENERGY STAR qualified for the home’s climate zone.

   For more technical retrofit questions and questions about the federal ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes Program please visit www.ecoaction.gc.ca or call toll-free 1-800 O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) or 1-800-926-9105 for the hearing impaired.

Payments

1. How does the grant cheque process work?
   Once you have completed your pre-retrofit home energy audit, your energy advisor will complete audit grant application forms, present them to you for your signature and then submit them for processing on your behalf. Your energy advisor will also submit a file in electronic format to Natural Resources Canada within 30 days. NRCan will then transfer the file to Ontario for the province to process the audit grant cheque. 

   Once you complete your retrofit work within 18 months and finish the post-retrofit audit, your energy advisor will complete the retrofit grant application forms, present them to you for your signature and then submit them for processing on your behalf. Your energy advisor will send another electronic file to Natural Resources Canada within 30 days. NRCan will transfer the file to Ontario. Ontario will then issue you a retrofit grant of up to $5,000.

2. How long does it usually take for an audit or retrofit rebate to be issued?
   Once you have completed an audit (pre-retrofit or post-retrofit), your energy advisor sends your application forms to the federal government. How quickly your forms are sent depends on your energy advisor, but energy advisors are supposed to submit your application forms to the federal government within four weeks. Once the federal government has received your application forms, it usually takes two weeks for your information to be sent to the Ontario Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure. In general, once Ontario receives your file, the ministry will process your audit and/or retrofit rebates within three weeks.

3. Who do I call if I have not received my grant cheque?
   For provincial grant cheques, please call the Ontario Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure Call Info Line at 1-888-668-4636. Please provide your name as it appears on the property tax bill, your audit or retrofit file number, the property address, your e-mail address or phone number, and whether you are inquiring about your audit or retrofit grant cheque. The operator will forward this information to the grant cheque processing office to check the status of your grant cheque. You can also send an e-mail to EnergyAudits@ontario.ca with the above information. We will check our records and let you know the status of your payment.

Other Available Incentives

1. Can I claim the Home Renovation Tax Credit and receive an Ontario Home Energy Savings Program grant?
   Homeowners participating in the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program are eligible to receive the temporary Home Renovation Tax Credit for some of the improvements made. For more information on the Home Renovation Tax Credit, please visit the Canada Revenue Agency’s website at cra-arc.gc.ca/hrtc or call 1-800-959-8281 (TTY 1-800-665-0354).

2. If I claim the Home Renovation Tax Credit will I automatically get the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program grant?
   No. To qualify for an Ontario Home Energy Savings Program grant, you must first have an energy audit/evaluation performed on your home by a Natural Resources Canada certified energy advisor. This evaluation must be done before starting your energy upgrades, and you must perform the improvements according to the recommendations in the pre-retrofit evaluation report you received from the energy advisor. A post retrofit audit/evaluation must also be done after your upgrades.

   For example, replacing your furnace with a 90% AFUE furnace will be eligible for the HRTC but not the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program. Similarly, increasing the insulation in your attic to R-40 will be eligible for the HRTC but not the Ontario Home Energy Savings Program, where a target of reaching 50 percent is required.

3. How can I apply for the retail sales tax (RST) rebate on renewable installations?
   The PST rebate on renewable installations is a program of the Provincial Ministry of Finance. Under that rebate program, owners of a residential premise or a multi-unit residential building who purchase and install a new solar, wind, micro hydroelectric or geothermal energy system can file for a rebate. Application forms are available on their website at www.rev.gov.on.ca. Just click on “Refunds” for more information, or you can call the Retail Sales Tax Refund Hotline at 1-800-615-2757.

4. Where can I obtain more information about the Ontario Power Authority and federal programs that may provide additional rebates?
   You can obtain more information, as follows:

   • For information on federal retrofit rebates visit the federal government’s website atwww.ecoaction.gc.ca or call toll-free 1-800-O-Canada (1-800-622-6232) or 1-800-926-9105 for the hearing impaired.
   • For information on Ontario Power Authority retrofit rebates visit the OPA website atwww.powerauthority.on.ca and follow the link to OPA Conservation or call the OPA’s Conservation Information Line at 877-797-9473 or toll free at 1-800-797-9604.
   • For information on Electric or Gas Company incentives, contact your local utilities directly.

Step 1: Find an energy advisor in your area, book an appointment and save half on your audit, up to $150. For example call 705.327.1504

Finding a home energy advisor is easy. For a list of licensed home evaluation organizations in your area, click the link below and enter your postal code. Get quotes from available organizations and schedule your Home Energy Audit with an energy advisor that’s right for you. In most cases you can schedule an appointment within a week or two. The Government of Ontario will pay half of your pre-retrofit audit, up to $150.

During your Home Energy Audit, an energy advisor will find your home’s energy leaks and show what you can do to plug them. Your energy advisor will provide you with your personalized Energy Efficiency Evaluation Report and a plan that can reduce your energy bills. Your report includes your home’s EnerGuide rating. This shows how energy efficient your home is and how efficient it could be with energy-saving improvements.

Step 2: Complete as many, or all of the recommended energy-saving upgrades.

Need a new furnace or water heater? Caulking around your windows and doors? Make some or all the upgrades suggested in your Energy Efficiency Report to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Your report will show you the most important changes to maximize your energy savings.

Step 3: Get up to $5,000 in Ontario rebates

After your first audit, you have 18 months to complete some or all of the improvements suggested by your energy advisor to qualify for government rebates. After completing the work, book your post-retrofit audit. Your energy advisor will perform your audit and provide you with your home’s new EnerGuide rating that shows how much you have improved your home’s energy efficiency. A good EnerGuide rating can also increase the value of your home.

After your post-retrofit audit, the Government of Ontario will rebate up to $5,000 for your energy efficient upgrades. The more energy-saving upgrades you make, the more money you’ll get back.

Request a Free Geothermal Information Package
We would be happy to send you a colour package which includes colour literature on the WaterFurnace Product Line. To have one sent,  email: chip@gravenhurstplumbing.com

with your name and address and we will mail it out to you the next day. We will also have a dealer follow up with you by email to be sure all your questions are answered.