I Already Have a Heat Pump — Can I Still Get a Rebate?

If you already have a heat pump at home, you might think you're completely out of luck when it comes to BC's energy rebates. And yes, the biggest rebate — the heat pump installation rebate — won't apply to you. But that doesn't mean there's nothing left on the table.

Here's what you need to know.

The Heat Pump Rebate Won't Apply

The CleanBC Energy Savings Program is clear on this: "Existing heat pumps, as primary or back-up heat sources, are not eligible for a heat pump rebate." It doesn't matter how old your heat pump is or how badly it's working. If you already have one installed, the heat pump rebate is off the table.

This surprises a lot of homeowners. We've had people reach out saying their heat pump is ancient and barely working — hoping to get a rebate for a replacement. Unfortunately, the program is designed to help homes switch TO heat pumps, not replace existing ones.

But Other Rebates Are Still Available

The heat pump rebate is just one part of the program. If your income qualifies, you could still get rebates for several other upgrades. Here's what's available for Level 1 and Level 2 participants:

Heat pump water heater — up to $3,500. If your current water heater runs on gas, propane, oil, or electric, you can get a rebate to switch to a heat pump water heater. This applies at all income levels, including Level 3.

Insulation — up to $5,500. Covers attic, walls, basement, and crawlspace insulation. Only available for Level 1 and Level 2 participants.

Windows and doors — up to $9,500. For installing energy-efficient windows and doors with a U-factor of 1.22 or less. Only available for Level 1 and Level 2. Note: homes within the City of Vancouver are not eligible for this rebate.

Ventilation — up to $1,600. For installing a heat or energy recovery ventilator (HRV/ERV) or bathroom fan system. You must also be completing another eligible upgrade like insulation or windows to qualify for this one.

Health and safety — up to $800. Covers remediation of pest, asbestos, structural, or mould issues that need to be fixed before other upgrades can be installed. Level 1 and Level 2 only.

That's Still a Lot of Money

Add it all up, and even without the heat pump rebate, you could receive up to $20,900 in rebates at Level 1:

• Water heater: $3,500
• Insulation: $5,500
• Windows and doors: $9,500
• Ventilation: $1,600
• Health and safety: $800
• Total: $20,900

That's money you'd be leaving on the table if you assumed having a heat pump meant you qualified for nothing.

One Thing to Check: What's Your Backup Heating?

Here's a detail that trips people up. The program looks at what your primary heating system is. If your heat pump is your primary system, you can't get a new heat pump rebate.

But what if your home has a gas furnace or oil furnace as the primary system, and the heat pump is a secondary or backup system? In some cases, the gas or oil system might still be considered the primary heater. This is worth looking into, especially if your heat pump only covers part of your home.

How to Find Out What You Qualify For

The rebate amount depends on your household size and income. The program has three income levels, with Level 1 offering the highest rebates and Level 3 the lowest. For the non-heat-pump rebates listed above, you'll need to be at Level 1 or Level 2.

To check your eligibility, visit cleanbc.getredsealpro.com or email us at [email protected]. We can help you figure out exactly which rebates apply to your situation.