Take advantage of ecoEnergy grants

The folks at Home Depot have got some great ideas for taking advantage of the extension of the ecoEnergy Retrofit program until March 31, 2012. Through the deal, homeowners can receive grants of up to $5,000 for upping their home’s energy efficiency by:

 Replacing an inefficient AC unit

Updating to an Energy Star model means potential rebates of between $25 and $250, and a comfier indoor environment.

Remodelling the bathroom

Add a new ecoEnergy approved low-flush or dual-flush toilet (They can come with a rebate of $65). This rebate can even be applied to up to four replacement toilets per home.

Finishing the basement

Insulating this space can cut heating/cooling costs by as much as 20 per cent, and rebates of between $125 and $1250 can apply. Look to Owens Corning or Roxul for information.

Checking for leaks

Air leaks accounts for 30 to 40 per cent of total heat loss in a home, so fix drafts before the mercury dips. Energy Star qualified windows and doors can save up to 12 per cent on the average energy bill and provide a rebate of $40 per rough opening (this is the structural framing in a wall or roof where windows, doors or skylights are installed).

Where to start?

Register with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) to receive a registration number  or call 1-800-622-6232.

Book a pre-retrofit energy evaluation with an NRCan certified energy adviser, such as GreenSaver If the property has already been evaluated under this program since April 2007, a new pre-retrofit evaluation is not required.

Purchase products and make eligible upgrades. Make sure to keep all receipts.

Complete a post-retrofit evaluation with an NRCan certified energy adviser (this must be completed by March 31, 2012).

Top pic courtesy of Owens Corning. Bottom pic courtesy of Roxul.