Energy Efficient Upgrades for Older Homes in BC
Bringing Older Homes into the 21st Century
British Columbia is home to a rich stock of character homes and mid-century residences. While these properties often boast charm and solid bones, they typically lack the energy efficiency standards of modern construction. Retrofitting these older homes can dramatically reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills, and increase comfort—all while preserving the character that makes them special.
Top Energy Upgrades for Older BC Homes
Not all upgrades are created equal. Here are the most impactful improvements you can make to an older home:
- Insulation Upgrades: Many older homes have minimal or no insulation in walls, attics, and crawl spaces. Adding blown-in insulation or spray foam dramatically reduces heat loss. Attic insulation is often the easiest and most cost-effective starting point.
- Window Replacement: Single-pane windows are major energy leaks. Upgrading to double or triple-glazed, low-E windows can reduce heat loss by 50% or more while also eliminating drafts and reducing noise.
- Heat Pump Installation: Heat pumps are highly efficient for both heating and cooling. They extract heat from the outside air (even in cold weather) and are far more efficient than electric baseboard heaters or older furnaces.
- Air Sealing: Gaps around windows, doors, outlets, and penetrations allow conditioned air to escape. Professional air sealing is an affordable way to improve comfort and reduce energy waste.
- Hot Water Efficiency: Replacing an old tank water heater with a heat pump water heater or tankless on-demand system can cut water heating costs significantly.
Available Rebates and Incentives
Homeowners in BC can take advantage of generous rebates to offset the cost of energy upgrades:
- CleanBC Better Homes Program: Offers rebates for heat pumps, insulation, windows, and more. Some upgrades can receive thousands of dollars back.
- BC Hydro & Fortis BC Rebates: Utility-specific incentives for appliances, smart thermostats, and energy assessments.
- Canada Greener Homes Grant: Federal grants providing up to $5,000 for eligible upgrades, plus $600 for EnerGuide evaluations.
"An energy-efficient home is not only kinder to the planet and your wallet, but it's also more comfortable to live in—consistent temperatures, better air quality, and quieter spaces."
Where to Start: The EnerGuide Assessment
The first step in any retrofit project is an EnerGuide home evaluation. A certified energy advisor will assess your home, identify areas for improvement, and prioritize upgrades based on impact and cost-effectiveness. This is also required to access many rebates.
Partner with Hilson Projects
Our team has extensive experience in energy retrofits for older homes throughout BC. We can guide you through the assessment process, help you maximize available rebates, and execute the renovations with minimal disruption. Contact us to schedule your consultation.