What does an audit involve?
An EnerGuide Home Energy Evaluation has a number of components, and is a basement-to-attic assessment of your home’s energy use. The REA will take some sketches and measurements to model the geometry of the house. They will look at the heating and cooling systems, such as the furnace, air conditioner, and water heater. They will evaluate the insulation levels in the walls, attic, and basement. They will also run the blower door test – the device itself takes measurements, and it also allows the REA to do a walk through and identify physical areas of air leakage. We encourage homeowners to join the REA on the audit, particularly for the walk through! It is very informative.
How long does the audit take?
The initial audit takes about 2 hours, and the follow up audit takes about an hour. These are approximate times, as it depends on the size and complexity of the home.
How much does the energy audit cost?
The initial audit is $375 + HST, and the follow up is $175 + HST. Provided that you meet the two measure minimum and the 120 day timeline, there is a $550 rebate towards the cost of the audits through the Home Efficiency Rebate program. If you are not participating in the program, you do not need a follow up audit, but there is no rebate for the audit.
Who is eligible for the Home Efficiency Rebate program?
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- You are an Enbridge Gas (including former Union Gas, prior to merger) customer who heats your home with a natural gas furnace or boiler.
- You own a detached, semi-detached, town house or mobile home.
- You must complete an energy assessment both before and after renovations. The initial audit must be completed before any renovations or demolition happens.
- You must complete at least two eligible renovations.
How will I know which renovations to complete?
After your initial audit, you will receive a customized report that outlines your home’s current energy score, as well as the recommendations on how to improve it. It also outlines the energy savings from each recommendation, so you can compare the costs vs. potential savings to get the most bang from your buck. It is up to you to decide which renovations to complete and manage the contractors.
How long do I have to complete my renovations?
You have 120 days from your initial energy audit to complete all renovations and have your follow up audit done.
When will I receive my rebate?
Green Venture processes all the paperwork on your behalf. It typically takes about 90 days for the rebate to be processed after the follow up audit.