Replacing windows and doors is one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make — better comfort, lower energy bills, quieter rooms, and a boost to curb appeal and resale value. The good news: several government and utility programs in Ontario can reduce the out-of-pocket cost of energy-efficient windows and doors. As a company that sells and installs windows and doors across Ontario, we see the difference these incentives make every day. Below we explain the main programs available, the benefits of energy-efficient replacements, and a clear step-by-step on how to claim the incentives — with practical tips so you don’t leave money on the table.
Which programs help with windows and doors in Ontario? (Overview)
There are two layers of incentives homeowners should know about:
-
Federal programs — chiefly the Canada Greener Homes suite (grants and related loans) administered by Natural Resources Canada. These support eligible energy-saving retrofits, including ENERGY-STAR® windows and doors. Natural Resources Canada
-
Provincial / utility programs — Ontario has launched province-level initiatives in recent years (for example the Home Renovation Savings Program), and major utilities/energy companies run rebate streams (Enbridge’s Home Efficiency Rebate / Home Efficiency Rebate Plus, Save on Energy initiatives, Hydro One tips/resources). These often include per-window/per-door rebates and money for home energy assessments. Ontario Newsroom, Enbridge Gas
Depending on timing, scope and eligibility rules you may be able to combine federal grants and provincial/utility rebates to cover a meaningful portion of your project.
Why choose energy-efficient windows & doors? (Benefits that matter)
-
Lower energy bills. Old or leaky windows and doors can be one of the largest sources of heat loss (or gain in summer). New ENERGY-STAR® rated units reduce heat transfer and lower monthly heating/cooling costs. Hydro One
-
Improved comfort & indoor air quality. Less draft, fewer cold spots, and better humidity control.
-
Noise reduction. Thicker glazing and better seals make homes quieter.
-
Reduced condensation & mould risk. Proper windows reduce interior condensation that can lead to mold (note: we use Canadian spelling).
-
Increased home value & curb appeal. Energy-efficient upgrades are attractive to buyers and appraisers.
-
Access to incentives. Replacing qualifying products unlocks grants or rebates that significantly reduce net cost. Natural Resources Canada
Key programs — what they typically offer (quick summary)
-
Canada Greener Homes Grant (NRCan) — Grants up to a program cap (commonly referenced as up to $5,000 for eligible retrofits) plus funding for pre- and post-retrofit energy evaluations; related interest-free loan options have been offered for larger retrofit packages. Windows and doors that meet program criteria can be eligible. Make sure to follow NRCan’s application steps (EnerGuide evaluation required for most grants). Natural Resources Canada
-
Home Renovation Savings Program (Ontario) — Launched in 2025 to encourage home energy upgrades; offers point-of-purchase rebates for qualifying energy upgrades (examples cited include per-window/per-door rebates and funding for energy assessments). Exact percentages and per-item amounts can vary; check the program portal for current details. Ontario Newsroom
-
Enbridge — Home Efficiency Rebate / Home Efficiency Rebate Plus — Utility rebate streams for Enbridge customers include per-window and per-door rebates when ENERGY-STAR certified products are used; they also reimburse home energy assessment fees and provide add-ons for air-sealing and insulation. Typical values are modest per unit but stack across projects. Enbridge Gas
-
Save on Energy programs (provincially supported) — These programs (including the Home Renovation Savings and Instant Discounts for some measures) offer rebates on retrofits that improve overall home efficiency. Availability and eligible measures change over time; check Save on Energy for contractor and homeowner guidance. Save on Energy
Note: municipal programs (e.g., Toronto’s Home Energy Loan Program) may offer financing to spread costs over time — useful if you want to borrow for a larger retrofit while still taking advantage of rebates and grants. City of Toronto
How much can you realistically save? (Typical examples)
-
Per-window rebates from utilities or provincial programs are often in the range of $50–$125 per qualifying window or door (check limits and caps). When combined with federal grants or larger program rebates, projects can see thousands in savings — especially for whole-house window replacements. Enbridge Gas
-
Federal grants via Greener Homes historically have offered up to $5,000 total across eligible retrofits, plus funds to cover EnerGuide assessments. If your project includes multiple measures (windows, doors, insulation, air sealing), the combined funding improves overall payback. Natural Resources Canada
Step-by-step: How to claim grants & rebates (recommended workflow)
-
Start with research — check current program rules. Program names and details change, so visit Natural Resources Canada, Enbridge, Save on Energy and Ontario government pages for the latest guidance before you buy. (We’ve linked sources below.) Natural Resources Canada, Enbridge Gas
-
Book a qualified home energy assessment if required. Many programs require a pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation (or equivalent). This documents your home’s baseline and is frequently a prerequisite for grant approval or for qualifying for the higher tiers of incentives. NRCan often reimburses part of the assessment cost. Natural Resources Canada
-
Choose qualifying products. To qualify, windows and doors usually must meet ENERGY-STAR® or program-specified performance ratings. Keep product spec sheets and ENERGY-STAR certificates. We always provide these documents with our quotes. Enbridge Gas
-
Use certified installers / keep invoices. Many rebates require installation by a certified contractor or at least that you keep detailed invoices showing labour and product costs. We provide itemized invoices and warranty documentation that match program requirements.
-
Apply through the correct portal (and on time). Some programs require pre-approval; others accept post-purchase claims. Make sure to follow timelines and upload your EnerGuide reports, photos, invoices and product sheets when asked. Missing documentation is the most common reason claims are delayed or denied.
-
Schedule a post-retrofit evaluation if required. Programs that require pre/post verification will need a follow-up EnerGuide assessment to confirm the savings and validate your grant. NRCan grants commonly include reimbursement for the post-retrofit evaluation. Natural Resources Canada
-
Stack incentives carefully. You can often combine federal and provincial/utility incentives, but read the fine print on double-dipping rules. Our team will help you plan the most favourable stack for your project.
Practical tips from our install team (so it’s painless)
-
Plan the whole job. Replacing a few windows may not qualify for some programs that require a minimum number of measures — bundling windows with air sealing or insulation often increases total rebate eligibility. Enbridge Gas
-
Ask for ENERGY-STAR paperwork up front. If a product isn’t certified, it likely won’t qualify. We’ll include certification and performance data with every quote.
-
Book the EnerGuide appointment early. EnerGuide advisors have limited availability. Booking early avoids project delays and helps secure pre-approval when required.
-
Keep all original receipts and photos. Photos of existing conditions, serial numbers, and installation progress can simplify claims.
-
Check for time-limited initiatives. New programs and pilots appear; others phase out or change limits. We monitor program updates and will advise which incentives apply at the time of your project. Ontario Newsroom
How our company helps — what we do for you
As a full-service window and door provider, we support the process end-to-end:
-
Product selection — we recommend models that meet program specifications (ENERGY-STAR, U-value/R-value, air infiltration limits).
-
Documentation — we provide itemized invoices, ENERGY-STAR certificates and technical spec sheets to support claims.
-
Coordination with energy advisors — when a pre/post EnerGuide assessment is required, we can coordinate timing and provide the documentation the assessor needs.
-
Certified installation — our installers follow best practices for air-sealing, flashing and insulation to ensure you achieve the expected energy performance (and that your claim isn’t jeopardized by poor installation).
-
Application support — we’ll point you to the correct application portals and advise on supporting documents so you get your rebate or grant without surprises.
Final checklist before you sign anything
-
Does the product have the required certification (ENERGY-STAR or program equivalent)?
-
Is a pre-retrofit EnerGuide or assessment required — and if so, has it been booked?
-
Have you confirmed whether the program requires certified installers?
-
Will your project meet any minimum upgrade thresholds (e.g., minimum number of windows)?
-
Do you understand the timeline for submitting claims and receiving funds?
If you want, we’ll review your current windows/doors, outline which units qualify, estimate your total incentive amount, and provide a bundled price that shows the net cost after rebates and grants.
Want us to run the numbers for your home?
Energy rebates and grants are a moving target — new programs and improvements mean more opportunity, but also more paperwork. Send us your address (or photos and a rough window/door schedule) and we’ll prepare a no-obligation upgrade plan that shows your likely rebates, estimated energy savings, and our recommended products and installation timeline. We’ll also flag which incentives require an EnerGuide assessment and help you book the advisor.
Sources & further reading
-
Natural Resources Canada — Canada Greener Homes Grant / eligible retrofits and process. Natural Resources Canada
-
Enbridge Gas — Home Efficiency Rebate / Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (program details for windows & doors). Enbridge Gas
-
Ontario government announcement — Home Renovation Savings Program (launch and high-level details). Ontario Newsroom
-
Save on Energy / Home Renovation Savings Program details. Save on Energy
Replacing windows and doors is about comfort and long-term savings — and right now, Ontario homeowners have multiple options to make that upgrade more affordable. If you’d like, we can audit your home for free, show you which incentives apply, and provide a step-by-step plan so your project is smooth and fully rebate-ready. Ready to get started?