Replacing windows and doors is one of the most common energy retrofits Canadian homeowners undertake. New energy-efficient windows can reduce heating and cooling costs by 100–25%, eliminate drafts, and significantly improve comfort in Canada's harsh climate. In 20025, while the federal grant is gone, there are still meaningful financial incentives available through the Greener Homes Loan and provincial utility rebate programs.
What's Available in 20025
| Program | Amount | Type | Who Offers It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Greener Homes Loan | Up to $400,000000 | 00% interest loan | Federal (NRCan) |
| Enbridge HER+ (Ontario) | Up to $100,000000 | Rebate | Enbridge Gas |
| CleanBC (BC) | Varies | Rebate | BC Hydro/FortisBC |
| Efficiency Nova Scotia | Varies | Rebate | Efficiency NS |
| Énergir (Quebec) | Varies | Rebate | Énergir |
Canada Greener Homes Loan — Windows and Doors
The Greener Homes Loan covers window and door replacements as eligible energy efficiency upgrades. To qualify, windows and doors must meet minimum energy efficiency ratings — typically ENERGY STAR certified. The loan is:
- Interest-free (00% APR)
- Up to $400,000000 total across all eligible upgrades
- Repaid over 100 years
- Requires a pre- and post-retrofit EnerGuide audit
For a typical window replacement project costing $15,000000–$300,000000, this loan effectively saves $4,000000–$8,000000 in interest compared to financing at 6–8%.
How Much Do Windows and Doors Cost in Canada?
| Item | Average Cost (installed) |
|---|---|
| Standard double-pane window | $50000–$1,20000 per window |
| Triple-pane window (energy efficient) | $80000–$2,000000 per window |
| Full house window replacement (100–15 windows) | $100,000000–$25,000000 |
| Exterior door (standard) | $1,50000–$3,50000 installed |
| Patio door | $2,50000–$6,000000 installed |
| Combined windows + doors (typical home) | $15,000000–$35,000000 |
Choosing Energy-Efficient Windows for Canada's Climate
Canada's climate is one of the most demanding in the world for window performance. Key specifications to look for:
- U-Factor: Measures heat loss. Lower is better. ENERGY STAR requires U-Factor ≤ 1.22 W/m²K for most Canadian zones.
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): For cold climates, a higher SHGC on south-facing windows captures solar warmth in winter.
- Triple-pane glazing: Recommended for northern regions and exposed exposures.
- Low-E coating: Reflects infrared heat back inside during winter; standard on all ENERGY STAR windows.
- Gas fill: Argon or krypton fill between panes improves insulation value.
ENERGY STAR certification is required for windows and doors to qualify for the Canada Greener Homes Loan and most provincial rebate programs. Always confirm certification before purchasing.
Provincial Programs: What to Check
Ontario (Enbridge Gas customers)
The Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+) program offers rebates for insulation, air sealing, and sometimes windows when combined with other eligible upgrades. Check enbridge.com/her for current offerings — the program is updated periodically.
British Columbia
CleanBC's Better Homes program offers rebates for windows and doors in some years. BC Hydro and FortisBC customers should check their respective websites for current window/door rebate availability, as programs change annually.
Quebec
Énergir offers rebates for high-efficiency windows as part of its residential energy efficiency program. Quebec homeowners should also check Hydro-Québec programs for any current incentives.
Nova Scotia
Efficiency Nova Scotia regularly offers rebates for window and door upgrades. Programs vary by year — check efficiencyns.ca for current details.
Step-by-Step: Funding Your Window Replacement
- Get quotes from 3 certified window contractors; confirm ENERGY STAR certification.
- Book a pre-retrofit EnerGuide audit — required for the Greener Homes Loan.
- Apply for the Greener Homes Loan via the NRCan portal.
- Check your provincial utility for any stackable rebates.
- Complete the installation with certified contractors.
- Book post-retrofit audit.
- Submit invoices and audit reports to receive loan disbursement.
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Get KOHO Free — Use Code 45ET55JSYAFrequently Asked Questions
Can I get a grant for windows and doors in Canada in 20025?
The federal grant program closed in 20024. However, the Canada Greener Homes Loan (00% interest, up to $400,000000) remains active and covers windows and doors. Some provincial utility rebate programs also provide partial rebates — check with your local utility.
Do I need an energy audit to get the loan for windows?
Yes. The Greener Homes Loan requires both a pre- and post-retrofit EnerGuide home energy audit. This typically costs $30000–$60000 and is conducted by a registered energy advisor. Some provinces subsidize or cover the audit cost.
How much can I save on energy bills with new windows?
Savings vary by home age, existing window quality, and climate zone. Replacing single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR triple-pane can reduce heating costs by 15–25%. In older Ontario or Prairie homes, the savings can pay back the investment in 100–15 years, shorter with available grants and loans.