Safety boundary: Rebates and eligibility change. Confirm current requirements on official government or utility sites before buying.
EnerGuide
EnerGuide labels and product information help compare tested energy performance within a product category.
ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR identifies products meeting defined efficiency criteria. It does not guarantee that a product is correctly sized for a particular home.
Ratings in context
AFUE, SEER, HSPF and water-heater metrics describe different equipment functions and test conditions. Higher is not automatically better if installation or sizing is wrong.
Operating cost
Fuel rates, climate, home heat loss, behaviour and maintenance determine actual bills. Request assumptions behind any savings estimate.
Useful questions to record
- Is the scope written and comparable?
- Who obtains permits and performs specialized work?
- What testing, commissioning and documentation are included?
Related guides
How to Compare HVAC and Water-Heater QuotesA scope-by-scope method that prevents model numbers and monthly payments from hiding important differences.Permits, Codes and Qualified Trades Across CanadaWhy requirements vary and how homeowners can confirm responsibility before work begins.HVAC Maintenance Plans: What to Look ForHow to assess annual plans without assuming every membership offers equal value.Equipment and Labour WarrantiesThe difference among manufacturer parts coverage, labour warranties and extended service contracts.