Retrofits for homes: save money, fight climate change
THIS IS A COMMUNITY PROJECT, organized by the Perth County Sustainability Hub. You are warmly invited to help out.
If you have information that belongs here, please let us know, either through the suggestion box, which goes directly to the page editors, or by using the public discussion form at the end of this page. You will notice comments in blue throughout this project; these are for the team of editors creating this page. Your suggestions will be added as well.
MOST OF ALL, we need your questions, because that is always the best place to begin.
THIS PAGE IS A DRAFT.
Please keep checking back as we find information to help people in Perth County learn about retrofit projects. Information on loans, grants and other financial information is at the end of this page, and within relevant articles.
WE ARE LOOKING FOR LOCAL INFORMATION on inspectors, advisors and contractors.
We are just starting to enter recommendations for inspectors and contractors. If you can complete our information, please let us know, using the contact box below.
insulation
heat pumps
smart home technology
EV chargers
solar
regulations
technology
ideas
ADVISORS, INSPECTORS, CONTRACTORS
A listing of local resources
Suggestions: this page is a work in progress. Help us make it better.
City of Stratford Resources
Sadaf Ghalib, Stratford’s Climate Change Programs Manager, is working on a Community Climate Action Plan to reduce the City’s greenhouse gas emssions by 30% by 2030.
See the Engagement Summary, first phase of Stratford’s Community Action Plan
The Canada Green Buildings Strategy is now under discussion. Click on the image above to read the strategy; you can support it by writing to legislators.
YOUR RETROFIT JOURNEY
FIRST: get a free energy assessment
Visit the Save on Energy website. The Save on Energy programme offers energy saving initiatives, including free energy assessments. You’ll find instructions on how to schedule an assessment, as well as a listing of contractors.
You can hire a certified energy auditor or consultant to assess your home’s energy efficiency. Some auditors may offer free initial assessments or provide information on rebates and incentives. If you’ve found an auditor, and would like to recommend them, please use the comments section at the end of this page. Although we will list your recommendations, we have no way to verify them. PCSH makes no recommendations for auditors or contractors.
SECOND: apply for grant/loan – Your work must be approved by an inspector before you can apply. To find financial information, see the links at the end of this page.
THIRD: do the work – We are compiling lists of contractors for five areas in Perth County. If you’ve found a contractor, and would like to recommend them, please use the comments section at the end of this page. Although we will list your recommendations, we have no way to verify them. PCSH makes no recommendations for auditors or contractors.
FOURTH: get a post-work assessment from your inspector
(Regulations? Best practices? Must it always be the same one? is there a difference between a pre- and post- inspector?)
For a complete retrofit to get to a net zero home, check out this website which was started by an architect who focuses on net zero homes.
OTHER PROJECTS IN OUR REGION
London’s guidebook is designed to help you reduce the environmental impact of your home. Energy efficiency, water conservation, flood prevention, waste reduction, green infrastructure, transportation
Waterloo Region’s Reep Green Solutions has a mission is to empower the community with the practical tools, knowledge and capacity for action to make sustainable living the norm. See their 2022-23 Impact Report for an eye-opening idea of what could be done in Stratford.
RETROFIT NEWS
What’s the easiest way to combat climate change?
How about a listing here of all the things we can do, with maybe a chart on how much each action can save the householder? Or maybe some examples from the community? People might send in photos? Other ideas?
HOME PROJECTS
WEATHERPROOFING
THE FIRST STEP: STOP LEAKS!
Insulation: JMM
Windows: JMM
Doors
https://www.enbridgegas.com/residential/rebates-energy-conservation/tips-to-save/insulate-your-home
https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/retrofit-existing-buildings
HEAT PUMPS
MS: heat pumps, hp water heaters
SC: heat pumps and radiators
SMART HOMES
NEED A LIST OF SMART TECHNOLOGY. JL
Powerbars? Timers? Smart Light bulbs? Thermostats?
EV CHARGERS
SC: does cleanup on this section. MS: any info to add?
1. Assess your charging needs: There are two levels of home chargers – Level 1 (120V and slowest) and Level 2 (240V and faster). Level 3 (fast chargers installed at some public charging stations) are not used for home charging.
2. Know the requirements: All EVs come with one of four kinds of plug-in receptacles on the car – J1772, ComboCCS, CHAdeMO, and Tesla. All of these receptacles can be connected to compatible Level 2 chargers. Not all can connect to Level 3 chargers – this should be checked at the time of purchase.
For home charging a few owners use a regular 120V wall plug. This is slow and there are cautions about plugging EVs into older homes lacking updated wiring. Some homeowners will need to upgrade their electrical panel before charging their EV at home.
3. Understand the mechanism: Most owners install either a 240V Level 2 receptacle (like those for clothes dryers or electric stoves), or a 240V Level 2 charger.
Level 2 receptacles typically use the portable charging cords that either come with or can be purchased with many EVs.
Level 2 home chargers are wall mounted, plug directly into the car, have to be compatible with the vehicle, and are not portable.
4. Find an advisor, check Ontario funding.
General Motors provides funding towards the installation of EV receptacles, and uses their own installers.
5. Consider load management: If you have multiple high-demand electrical appliances in your home, consider load management solutions to ensure that your EV charging does not overload your electrical system. Plan for the future: Think about future EV purchases and whether your charging infrastructure can accommodate additional vehicles.
6. Choose a qualified contractor who can select a suitable location for the charger, considering factors like accessibility, proximity to your vehicle’s parking spot, and the distance from the electrical panel.
7. Monitor energy use: Install a separate meter or monitoring system to track your EV charging energy consumption.
8. Schedule regular maintenance: Keep your EV charger in good working condition by performing routine maintenance and inspections.
INDUCTION STOVES
AS: Short article on induction stoves. Other stove possibilities?
If you have a gas stove, consider switching to an induction stove. They are reported to be highly efficient, easy to use and easy to maintain.
SOLAR
SOLAR – SC research & cleanup
Installing solar panels in your home in Ontario can be a great way to save on energy costs and reduce your environmental impact. Here are some best practices to consider:
1. Assess your energy needs: Start by determining your energy consumption and needs. This will help you size your solar panel system appropriately.
2. Consult with an energy advisor. Investigate funding possibilities.
3. Find a reputable installer: Research and choose a qualified and experienced solar installer who is familiar with Ontario’s regulations and incentives. Please see our list of installers as a starting point. We are unable to recommend installers.
3. Understand local regulations: Familiarize yourself with Ontario’s solar energy regulations, including permits and grid connection requirements.
4. Take advantage of incentives: Ontario offers various incentives and rebates for solar installations. Explore these programs to reduce the cost of your system.
5. Choose the highest-quality equipment you can afford: quality solar panels, inverters, and other components will ensure long-term performance and reliability.
8. Perform regular maintenance: Keep your solar panels clean and monitor their performance to maximize energy production.
9. Plan for energy storage: Consider adding battery storage to your solar system to store excess energy for use during cloudy days or power outages.
10. Educate yourself: Stay informed about the latest developments in solar technology and government policies to make informed decisions.
Remember that the specifics of your solar installation will depend on your unique circumstances, so it’s essential to work closely with a qualified professional to design and implement the best solar solution for your home in Ontario.
BATTERY STORAGE
JK: Research, short article
GRANTS, LOANS, AND OTHER RESOURCES
(Last updated 00/00/00)
Natural Resources Canada and Enbridge Gas deliver this programme. Rebates up to $10,000 for eligible retrofits. This can be home insulation, weatherproofing, windows & doors, air sealing, space and water heating (including air source heat pumps). ALSO a grant of up to $600 towards the cost of your pre- and post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluations
LEAP Program
The Ontario Electricity Support Program helps lower-income customers with their electricity bills. It is also available to people living in homes that have sub-meters (apartments, condos, co-ops, trailers) See this page to apply
ENERGY AFFORDABILITY PROGRAM
Offers energy-saving upgrades tailored to your home’s specific needs. For homeowners and renters.The type of support provided will depend on your household income level from the previous year and how many people live in your home, or on your receipt of a qualifying government or energy-support benefit. Residents of social housing may also be eligible. Learn more
THIS IS A PLACEHOLDER
If you have information that belogs here, please let us know through the suggestion box on this page.
Interest-free loan of up to $40,000 with a repayment term of 10 years, open to homeowners who have an active application (at the pre-retrofit stage) with the Canada Greener Homes Grant.
MUNICIPALITIES? PERTH COUNTY?
1. check with county
2. check munnicipal resources
MUNICIPALITIES? PERTH COUNTY?
1. check with county
2. check munnicipal resources
If your home is heated by oil, and you are at or below the median after-tax income level, you may qualify for to $10,000 for the purchase and installation of eligible cold climate air source heat pump systems. Eligible measures related to installation are also included (removal of oil tank, upgrades to electrical and mechanical systems, eligible backup electric heating system, other household systems as necessary (hot water heater).
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