Updated May 2026: The rebate landscape changed significantly in early 2026. The Canada Greener Homes Grant closed to new applicants on January 20, 2026 and the Enbridge HER+ program ended December 31, 2025. They have been replaced by the Home Renovation Savings Program (up to $7,500 for cold-climate air-source heat pumps or $12,000 for ground-source/geothermal) and the new Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program for income-qualified households. This guide reflects the current 2026 landscape. Ontario homeowners can still stack thousands in rebates if you know which programs are active today.
Why Heat Pumps Are Dominating 2026 Rebate Programs
Both federal and provincial governments have made electrification of home heating a top priority. Heat pumps which move heat rather than burning fuel can deliver 2 to 4 times more energy than they consume. That efficiency is why regulators are offering substantial incentives to push adoption. Modern cold-climate heat pumps now operate effectively down to -30°C, making them a genuine solution for Ontario winters rather than just a southern-Canada option.
Federal Programs in 2026
The original Canada Greener Homes Grant closed January 20, 2026. Two federal pathways remain available for Ontario homeowners.
| Program | Max Rebate | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program | Up to $10,000 (federally delivered) / up to $25,000 (co-delivery provinces) | Income-qualified low-to-median-income households only |
| Oil-to-Heat Pump Affordability Program | Up to $10,000 | Must replace oil heating, low-to-median income |
| Canada Greener Homes Loan | $40,000 at 0% interest | Pre/post EnerGuide audit, universal eligibility |
| Canada Greener Homes Grant (CLOSED) | N/A | Closed to new applicants January 20, 2026 |
Ontario Provincial & Utility Rebates
Stack these on top of federal incentives for maximum savings.
Available in Ontario (2026)
- Home Renovation Savings Program: Up to $7,500 for an ENERGY STAR cold-climate air-source heat pump, or up to $12,000 for ground-source/geothermal (no energy assessment required for the heat pump tier). This is the new joint program funded by Enbridge Gas, Save on Energy and the Ontario Government, administered by the IESO. It replaces both Enbridge HER+ and the previous Save ON Energy heat pump pathway.
- Home Renovation Savings - Heat Pump Water Heater: $500 rebate (assessment required)
- Home Renovation Savings - Smart Thermostat: $75 to $100 (no assessment)
- Home Renovation Savings - Insulation bundle: $1,000 to $1,250 per upgrade, or up to $7,700 for the comprehensive attic + wall + foundation + exposed floor package (assessment required)
- Enbridge Gas Home Renovation Savings Program (CLOSED): Final applications were accepted December 31, 2025. Customers with completed pre-retrofit assessments by December 1, 2025 may still be eligible for legacy claims; otherwise use the Home Renovation Savings Program instead.
- Municipal Green Home Programs: Cities like Mississauga, Brampton, and Markham offer additional property tax rebates for energy upgrades, check your local municipality.
How to Stack Rebates: A Step-by-Step Process
Book an EnerGuide Home Evaluation
Required for most federal programs. A certified energy advisor assesses your home and provides a report with recommended upgrades. Cost: $400–$600, partially offset by federal grant.
Choose a Qualifying Heat Pump
Ensure the unit is on the ENERGY STAR Cold Climate certified list. The ENERGY STAR Cold Climate spec requires ducted heat pumps to maintain at least 70% of rated heating capacity at -15°C and mini-splits at least 75%. Top cold-climate models from Mitsubishi, Lennox, Daikin, and Bosch comfortably exceed those thresholds. Ask your contractor to confirm certification before purchase.
Apply for Federal Funding First
Submit your Canada Greener Homes application before installation begins. Federal rebates require pre-approval in most cases.
Apply for Provincial + Utility Rebates
Submit Enbridge, Toronto Hydro, or Hydro One applications after installation. Most have 90-day submission windows post-installation.
Keep All Documentation
Retain your contractor invoice, equipment serial number, warranty documents, and EnerGuide report. These are required for all rebate claims.
What Heat Pumps Qualify for 2026 Rebates?
Not every heat pump makes the cut. Here's what to look for:
- ENERGY STAR® certified with cold-climate rating
- Minimum HSPF2 of 7.5 (heating seasonal performance factor)
- Maintains at least 70% (ducted) or 75% (mini-split) of rated heating capacity at -15°C per ENERGY STAR Cold Climate spec
- Installed by a licensed HVAC contractor (required for rebate validation)
- Brands commonly qualifying: Daikin, Mitsubishi, Carrier, Lennox, Bosch, LG
How Much Can You Actually Save?
Let's look at a realistic scenario for a typical Ontario home replacing a natural gas furnace:
| Source | Amount |
|---|---|
| Home Renovation Savings - Heat Pump (air-source) | + $7,500 |
| Home Renovation Savings - Smart Thermostat | + $100 |
| Canada Greener Homes Loan (0% interest) | Finances up to $40,000 of remaining cost |
| Annual energy savings (vs. gas) | ~ $800 / year |
| Estimated total upfront rebate value (Year 1) | ≈ $12,100 |
EcoFrost Can Handle the Entire Rebate Process
Many homeowners leave money on the table simply because the paperwork is confusing. At EcoFrost, we help Toronto and GTA homeowners navigate every available rebate, choose a qualifying heat pump, and complete the application on your behalf.
Ready to take the next step?
Get a Free Heat Pump Quote + Rebate Assessment?Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the federal heat pump rebate in Ontario in 2026?
Can I combine the federal program with the Ontario Home Renovation Savings rebate?
Do I need an energy audit before applying for a heat pump rebate?
What is the income eligibility for the Canada Greener Homes Loan?
How do I apply for the Ontario heat pump rebate step by step?
Is there an income-tested top-up rebate for heat pumps in Ontario?
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