Upgrade to Energy Efficient Windows and Doors and Save
Upgrade to energy-efficient windows and doors and you can get thousands of dollars back in your pocket thanks to current rebate and grant programs. These programs reward eco-consciousness and energy efficiency for products like new vinyl windows, aluminum windows, doors, insulation, caulking and weather-stripping.
Do I Need to Upgrade My Windows?
Windows don’t have an unlimited lifespan, so at some point during your home ownership, you’ll be looking at replacing them.
That draft you feel? That’s your energy bill rising as your heating and cooling system works to compensate for the shift in temperature around your windows.
After a few decades of use, our windows and doors may not be as effective as they once were at keeping heat in or cold air out. This is normal because most windows and doors are designed to last about 25 years. After that point, window and/or door replacement may need to be added to the to-do list.
When you choose to replace your windows and doors, you’re investing in an energy-efficient product that will save money on your utility bills for years to come. Your new windows and high-quality wood, aluminum, steel or vinyl doors will help dampen outside sounds, maintain a comfortable temperature and add a fresh look inside and out. This can even help increase the value of your home and the appeal to potential buyers.
What Types of Rebates are Available for Window and Door Upgrades?
Now to the good stuff. You need new windows and there are many great programs that can help offset the cost, especially when you’re ready to replace the whole lot of windows around your home. We all know that windows are a key part of your home and a huge investment, so it helps to have a little extra incentive!
BC Hydro and Fortis BC window and door rebates via the CleanBC Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate Programs
BC Hydro and Fortis BC both offer their customers a provincial rebate program via the CleanBC Better Homes Rebate Program.
The rebates available apply to primary residences only, including single-family homes, duplexes, triplexes, row homes, townhomes or mobile homes on a permanent foundation. Note that new construction, additions and garage upgrades are not eligible for this upgrade rebate. Residences that are primarily heated by wood and solid fuels are also not eligible for the CleanBC rebate program.
The rebate you’re eligible for will depend on the U-factor of the window. The U-factor is a measurement for how well the window insulates. The lower the U-factor, the better the insulation. For windows, the U-factor ranges from 0.20 to 1.20.
Tier 1: For windows with a U-factor of 1.40 to 1.23, you could receive $50 per window, to a maximum of $1,000. (Up to twenty windows per tier)
Tier 2: For windows (or doors) with a U-factor of 1.22 or less, you could receive $100 per window or door, to a maximum of $2,000. (Up to twenty windows per tier)
You could also qualify for $300 - $2000 in bonus offers if you combine 2 or more eligible upgrades within 18 months. This can include windows, doors, space and water heaters, fireplaces and insulation.
If you’ve upgraded or plan to upgrade to Energy Star-rated energy-efficient windows, doors, skylights or other eligible products, you may be able to receive a tax credit of up to $500 through the federal government.
Applicable for installations between 2018 – 2021, this tax credit program has now been extended through December 31, 2021. Note that installation costs are not applicable towards this credit.
If eligible, you can receive up to $5000 for energy-efficient retrofits done on your primary residence with products purchased in Canada or from a Canadian distributor. When you replace existing windows or doors with Energy Smart certified windows, sliding glass doors, hinged doors, or doors with sidelights, you can receive $125 - $250 per rough opening.
A rough opening is the space in the building envelope where a window will be installed. Multiple units installed in one rough opening count as one window and will be eligible for one grant. Eligibility for this grant from Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN) also requires a post-retrofit evaluation to ensure the unit has the correct energy rating and has been professionally installed.
When you use CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation) financing for either a new build or renovation, you could qualify for a rebate of up to 25% on your mortgage loan premium. If you purchase, build or renovate a home that’s up to Energy Star standards (this includes windows and doors, of course), you could qualify for a 15% rebate. If your home is up to R-2000 building standards, you could qualify for a full 25% rebate for dramatically reducing your carbon footprint.
How to Maximize Your BC Window Rebates
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Keep all your records and files on hand, including energy assessment records - many programs will require a copy of your pre and post upgrade energy assessment as well as a checklist of the work completed.
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Get copies of your receipts and product information – always have copies of your purchase receipts and copies of product information that clearly show the model number of the eligible windows.
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Keep your invoice – your retailer invoice will have key information, including installation date, address, number of windows, brand, manufacturer, types of windows and more.
Upgrading your windows and doors doesn’t have to be a scary task. Manufacturing and installing windows and doors since 1984, Modern Windows (Vancouver Island, Powell River, & The Sunshine Coast) has been your local source of quality windows and doors that meet the Energy Star rating. We also offer other glass products including skylights, garage doors, sunrooms and much more. Our knowledgeable team is here to answer all your questions, ensuring you’re confident in your decision long before our licensed installers arrive at your home. Contact us for your free quote for your new construction or renovation project today.
