How to Get the Most From HVAC Rebates in Ontario (2026)
Every year, Ontario homeowners leave rebate money unclaimed simply because the programs are confusing. If you’re replacing a furnace, AC, or heat pump, a bit of planning can put real dollars back in your pocket. Here’s the practical version.
Start with an energy assessment
The biggest Ontario efficiency programs are tied to a registered EnerGuide home energy assessment. You get one done before the work and again after. The catch: for most rebates, the assessment has to come first — do the upgrade without it and you can forfeit the money. So the order of operations matters.
Know the main programs
- Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+): the main program, delivered by Enbridge Gas with Natural Resources Canada, covering qualifying upgrades like high-efficiency systems, insulation, and air sealing.
- Heat-pump rebates: among the largest incentives available, often stackable with HER+.
- Home Winterproofing Program: free upgrades for income-qualified households.
- Financing: interest-free federal loans have been available for eligible retrofits.
Programs, amounts, and eligibility change over time and are set by the program administrators — always confirm the current details before you count on a specific figure. Our rebates page keeps the overview in one place.
Stack where you can
The real savings come from combining programs — for example, a heat-pump rebate plus an insulation rebate under the same assessment. A contractor who does this regularly will know which upgrades to bundle so you qualify for the most.
Time it right
Rebates and manufacturer offers come and go, and emergency winter replacements leave no time to line up an assessment. If your system is aging, plan the replacement before it fails — you’ll have time to do the assessment first and capture the incentives.
Let a pro handle the paperwork
The applications and assessment scheduling are the part homeowners dread. The easiest path is to work with a contractor who handles it for you. That’s exactly what we help with: tell us about your job and we’ll match you with vetted pros who know the programs and do the paperwork — free, and no obligation.