Spray Foam Insulation Rebates: A Step-by-Step Guide for Ontario Homeowners

October 3rd, 2024

a picture of a neighborhood with the Enridge company logo, a header reading Home Efficiency Rebate, the year 2024, and the Government of Canada logo.

Spray foam insulation is one of the most effective ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency, but did you know that you can also save thousands of dollars through rebate programs? If you're a homeowner in Ontario, the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+) program, offered through Enbridge Gas, is a fantastic opportunity to upgrade your insulation and other energy-saving improvements while receiving financial incentives.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about these spray foam insulation rebates, from eligibility to how to apply. Let’s get started!

What Is the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+) Program?

The dew point is the temperature at which air becomes fully saturated with moisture, meaning it can no longer hold the water vapor present. When air cools to this point, the excess moisture condenses into water droplets—this is when condensation occurs.

The program is administered by Enbridge Gas and is available to both natural gas customers and those using other types of home heating systems (e.g., oil, propane, electricity).

Why Choose Spray Foam Insulation?

  • High energy efficiency: Closed-cell spray foam insulation offers excellent R-value per inch, reducing air leakage and improving home comfort.
  • Long-term savings: With proper insulation, you can see significant reductions in heating and cooling costs.
  • Rebate eligibility: Installing spray foam insulation makes you eligible for substantial rebates under HER+.

In addition to visible issues, hidden condensation within walls or other structures can create long-term problems. Proper insulation and understanding dew point helps prevent these risks.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Rebate

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility

Before applying, make sure you meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Home type: Rebates are available for single-family homes, townhouses, and certain multi-unit residential buildings.
  • Work scope: The program covers a variety of energy-efficient upgrades, including insulation, air sealing, and more.
  • Home evaluation: You must complete an energy assessment before and after the upgrades to qualify.

Step 2: Complete a Home Energy Evaluation

To begin the rebate process, you’ll need to schedule a home energy audit with a registered energy advisor. This evaluation will assess your home’s current energy efficiency and identify potential areas for improvement, such as upgrading insulation or sealing air leaks.

What Happens During the Energy Audit?

  • Pre-evaluation: Your home’s existing insulation levels, air leakage, windows, and HVAC system are inspected.
  • Energy report: After the evaluation, you will receive a detailed report outlining recommended upgrades and the rebates available for each.

Step 3: Install Spray Foam Insulation

Once you receive your energy report, it’s time to move forward with the recommended upgrades, including installing spray foam insulation. The HER+ program requires you to hire licensed professionals for all insulation work to ensure it meets program standards.

Why Professional Installation Is Important:

  • Ensures proper installation to maximize energy savings.
  • Meets all technical requirements to qualify for the rebate.
  • Prevents any issues related to improper application, such as air leaks.

Step 4: Complete the Post-Upgrade Energy Evaluation

After your insulation upgrades are completed, you’ll need a post-upgrade energy audit. This second evaluation ensures the work has been done correctly and confirms the energy savings achieved.

Once your home passes the final evaluation, your energy advisor will submit the necessary paperwork to Enbridge Gas, and you’ll be on your way to receiving your rebates.

Step 5: Receive Your Rebate

After your post-upgrade evaluation and submission, you’ll receive your rebate check in the mail. The total rebate depends on the scope of the upgrades completed, but for spray foam insulation specifically, the savings can be significant.

How Much Can You Save?

The HER+ program offers tiered rebates based on the areas of your home that are upgraded with insulation. Here’s a breakdown of what you could save with spray foam insulation:

  • Attic insulation: Up to $1,500.
  • Wall insulation: Up to $3,000.
  • Basement insulation: Up to $1,500.
  • Crawl space insulation: Up to $1,500.

Bonus Tip: Get Additional Rebates for Air Sealing

Spray foam insulation naturally improves air sealing, and you can also qualify for additional air-sealing rebates of up to $180. This is another great way to further boost your home's energy efficiency and rebate value.

Important Program Details to Keep in Mind

  • Two-step evaluation: You must complete both a pre-upgrade and post-upgrade energy evaluation to qualify.
  • Rebate deadlines: Ensure that your upgrades and the second audit are completed within 120 days of the initial energy assessment.
  • Licensed contractors: All work must be performed by licensed professionals approved by Enbridge Gas.
  • Stacking rebates: You can combine HER+ rebates with other local or federal energy efficiency incentives.

Start Saving with Spray Foam Insulation Rebates Today

By participating in the HER+ program, Ontario homeowners can significantly reduce their energy bills while benefiting from substantial rebates for upgrades like spray foam insulation. Not only will you improve the comfort and efficiency of your home, but you'll also take advantage of up to $10,000 in rebates—a great return on your investment.
Ready to protect your home from moisture issues? Contact Big Blue Insulation to learn how our spray foam solutions can help you keep condensation outside, where it belongs.

Ready to take the next step? Contact Big Blue Insulation to learn how our expert spray foam installation services can help you qualify for rebates and start saving on energy costs today!