Ontario’s Home Renovation Savings Program pays rebates to homeowners who make energy-efficiency upgrades, including up to $7,500 for a cold-climate air-source heat pump and up to $7,700 for insulation. Bungalows are well suited to several of these upgrades because the attic and basement are large relative to the house. Here is what is on offer in 2026 and where a bungalow owner is likely to get the best return.
Key takeaways
- The program is delivered by Save on Energy and Enbridge Gas.
- Rebates cover heat pumps, insulation, air sealing, windows, doors, solar and batteries.
- You must meet the program’s requirements before work starts.
- Attic and basement insulation usually pay back fastest in a bungalow.
- Rebate amounts depend on your home and current heating system.
Rebates available in 2026
| Upgrade | Maximum rebate |
|---|---|
| Ground-source heat pump | $12,000 |
| Cold-climate air-source heat pump | $7,500 |
| Insulation | $7,700 |
| Rooftop solar panels | $5,000 |
| Battery storage | $5,000 |
| Home energy assessment | $600 |
| Heat pump water heater | $500 |
| Air sealing | $250 |
| Windows and doors | $100 per opening |
| Smart thermostat | $100 |
These are maximums. The amount you receive depends on factors such as how your home is heated now, its size and how much the upgrade improves it. Always confirm current amounts on the program website before you sign a contract.
Who qualifies
- You own a home in Ontario, including detached, semi-detached and townhouse.
- You meet the program requirements before renovations begin. Some upgrades need a home energy assessment before and after the work.
- You use a participating contractor where the program requires one.
Where bungalows get the most from the program
Attic insulation
A bungalow has more roof area for its size than a two-storey home, so more of its heat is lost through the ceiling. Topping up attic insulation is usually the cheapest upgrade with the biggest effect, and the attic is easy to reach.
Basement and rim joists
The basement of a bungalow is as large as the main floor. Insulating the walls and sealing the rim joist makes the lower level far more comfortable, which also matters if you plan a suite.
Air sealing
Older bungalows leak air at the attic hatch, pot lights, basement windows and plumbing openings. Air sealing is inexpensive and improves the result of every other upgrade.
Heat pumps
One-level homes are easy to heat and cool evenly, and duct runs are short. A cold-climate heat pump can replace the air conditioner and take over most of the heating.
Solar
The large, low roof of a bungalow is practical for solar panels, provided it faces the right way and is not shaded by mature trees.
Bungalow tip: Do the envelope first. Insulating and air sealing before you replace the furnace or add a heat pump can let you buy smaller, cheaper equipment.
How to apply, step by step
- Check your eligibility on the Home Renovation Savings Program website.
- Book a home energy assessment if your upgrades require one.
- Get quotes from participating contractors.
- Complete the work and keep every invoice.
- Complete the follow-up assessment if required.
- Submit your documents and wait for approval.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim a rebate for work I have already done?
Usually not. Most rebates require you to register or complete an assessment before the work begins.
Do rebates add value when I sell?
The rebate itself does not, but lower energy bills and a better EnerGuide rating are selling points buyers notice.
What should I upgrade first in an older bungalow?
Start with an energy assessment, then air sealing and attic insulation. Our guide to bungalow energy efficiency explains the order.
Buying a bungalow to renovate?
Rebates can take some of the sting out of updating an older home. Browse bungalows for sale across Ontario and factor available rebates into your renovation budget.
This article is general information as of early October 2026, not legal, tax, mortgage or insurance advice. Rules and numbers change, so confirm the details for your situation with a licensed professional.
