Comparison Checklist
Eligible equipment types
Pre-retrofit requirements
Rebate amounts
Application timeline
Stackability with other programs
Contractor requirements
| Option | Best For | Watch For | Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Greener Homes Grant | Homeowners installing heat pumps, upgrading insulation, or improving air sealing in existing homes. | Requires a pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation before work begins. The evaluation alone costs $300 to $600 and must be booked early. | The largest single rebate source for heat pump installations in Ontario. |
| Enbridge Home Efficiency Rebate | Gas-heated homes upgrading to high-efficiency furnaces, smart thermostats, insulation, or water heaters. | Rebate amounts and eligible equipment change annually. Confirm current program details before committing to equipment. | Stackable with Greener Homes for homeowners upgrading multiple systems. |
| CMHC Green Home program | Homebuyers and homeowners refinancing who want a premium refund on mortgage insurance for energy-efficient homes. | Not a direct rebate — it reduces mortgage insurance cost. Most useful when combined with other upgrade incentives. | Relevant for homeowners financing major renovations through their mortgage. |
How to stack rebates for the best result
Ontario homeowners can combine federal and utility programs. A cold-climate heat pump installation might qualify for $5,000 through Greener Homes and an additional $2,000 through Enbridge, depending on the equipment and current program terms.
The key is sequencing: book the EnerGuide evaluation first, then get HVAC quotes, then install the equipment, then complete the post-retrofit evaluation. Doing things out of order can disqualify you from the federal program entirely.
Pre-retrofit evaluation: what it involves
A certified energy advisor visits your home and conducts a blower door test, inspects insulation levels, documents heating equipment, and assigns an EnerGuide rating.
This baseline rating determines which upgrades qualify for rebates and how much you can receive. The evaluation typically takes two to three hours and costs $300 to $600 out of pocket, though some programs partially reimburse this fee.
What equipment qualifies right now
Heat pumps (ducted and ductless) consistently offer the highest rebate amounts. ENERGY STAR certified equipment is generally required. Furnaces may qualify for Enbridge rebates but not always for federal programs.
Smart thermostats, attic insulation, basement insulation, and air sealing improvements also qualify and can be bundled with equipment upgrades to maximize the total rebate amount.
Common mistakes that cost homeowners money
Starting work before the pre-retrofit evaluation is the most expensive mistake. The federal program will not retroactively approve work that was completed before the baseline assessment.
Other issues: choosing equipment that does not meet minimum efficiency thresholds, working with a contractor who is not registered with the program, and missing application deadlines. Ask your HVAC contractor whether they have handled rebate-eligible installations before.