Are you a homeowner in Medicine Hat looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency while saving on costs? Medicine Hat Existing Home Incentive Program, a.k.a HAT Smart, brings just that.

Learn all the benefits of upgrading your windows and doors and how Ecoline can help you claim the maximum rebate for your next window or door replacement project in Medicine Hat.

Overview of the HAT Smart program

The Medicine Hat Existing Home Incentive Program is a local government initiative to encourage homeowners to invest in energy-efficient home upgrades. Eligible participants can receive financial incentives for various home improvement projects focusing on energy efficiency and “greener” houses, including rebates for upgrading windows and doors.

To qualify, homeowners must reside within the city limits of Medicine Hat and have a residential property that is at least one year old. 

Program’s Conditions & Deadlines

• HAT Smart program will be in effect from January 1 to December 31, 2023, with applicants eligible for one rebate per residential address during the Program Term.
• The deadline to submit your application is noon on January 9, 2024.
• This government initiative is aimed at assisting property owners in retrofitting existing homes. An existing home means it is built more than six (6) months before installations, replacements, and/or upgrades.

How Much Can You Save on New Windows & Doors with HAT Smart?

The maximum rebate amount you can claim when replacing windows and/or doors is $2500. The rebate amount stems from the number of rough openings retrofitted with 1 unit replaced, equal to 1 rough opening. The U-Factor of your newly installed windows also affects the final amount of rebate:

• $100 for new energy-efficient doors
• $125 per window with U-Factor of 1.14 ≤ 1.22 W/m²K
• $150 with U-Factor of 1.05 ≤ 1.13 W/m²K

Maximum rebate: $2,500

Replacement Windows & Doors Eligibility Requirements

• Your new window or entry door must be replacement units. Partial retrofitting of glass, sash, or doors without frames is not eligible;
• All windows and/or must be purchased in Canada between January 1 and December 31, 2023, proved by the date on invoices and/or receipts;
• Online purchases qualify if they are ordered from a distributor located in Canada;
• Only Energy Star window and door models are eligible for the rebate;
• Your new replacement models must have a U-Factor of 1.22 or lower;

How Do You Apply For the Medicine HAT Smart program?

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Homeowners need to receive a City of Medicine Hat residential Electric and/or Natural Gas utility statement in their name for an existing home. Then check the equipment you want to receive the financial support for – all of it should be purchased in Canada and installed by a licensed installer. You are also to check the energy ratings of your new units as well as prove the products were bought between January 1 and December 31, 2023.

Step 2: Conduct your home energy evaluation

You need to conduct an EnerGuide evaluation done only by a program-approved Registered Energy Advisor. It is necessary to analyze and consult homeowners about which retrofit upgrades work best for their houses to increase overall energy efficiency. A copy of the energy evaluation report must be submitted within 60 days from approval of the reserve funds application;

Step 3: Choose the right products & know the rebate amounts

The HAT Smart program can cover anywhere from $100 to $2500, depending on your window or door replacement project. All your new models installed must be Energy Star-rated. Please, make sure to keep all invoices and receipts to submit after completing your renovations. All invoices must be between January 1 and December 31, 2023. 

Step 4: Apply for the rebate

The application deadline is noon on January 9, 2024. Our Ecoline rebate experts will gladly walk you through and help you claim the maximum rebate amount for your home improvement project.

Benefits of New Windows & Doors: Do You Really Need the Upgrade?

Windows and doors play a vital role in maintaining the adequate thermal performance of your home. Upgrading to energy-efficient models offers numerous benefits, including:

• Drop in energy bills

Energy-efficient windows & doors can significantly reduce your energy bills by minimizing heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. According to Energy Star, the enhanced insulation can help homeowners save up to 15% on their energy bills. With the rising energy costs, this benefit is significant as it can lead to substantial savings over time, allowing you to invest your money elsewhere.

• Boost in comfort

Modern windows and doors save you money and ultimately boost the comfort of your living space. High-quality, energy-efficient products help maintain consistent indoor temperatures, reducing drafts and eliminating ice-build ups. A comfortable home is a happier, healthier home, providing a more enjoyable living environment.

• Reduced carbon footprint

By upgrading to energy-efficient models, Canadians contribute to a greener environment by reducing overall energy consumption. Energy-efficient windows and doors can reduce your household’s carbon emissions by up to 20%, helping you do your part in mitigating climate change and preserving our planet for future generations.

• Enhanced property value

Investing in energy-efficient windows and doors can significantly increase your home’s resale value. A recent study shows that homeowners who replaced their windows with energy-efficient units could recoup up to 74% of the renovation project cost upon resale. Additionally, homes with energy-efficient products installed tend to sell faster and at a higher price as buyers increasingly prioritize energy efficiency in their home searches. 

HAT Smart Program’s Key Takeaways

Here are the key points to remember about the HAT Smart program:

• The program is open to MH residents only;
• Pre-evaluation must be completed, and a copy of the report must be submitted within 60 days from approval of the reserve funds application;
• Equipment must be purchased and installed between January 1 and December 31, 2023;
• Only equipment bought from Canadian manufacturers is eligible;
• The maximum rebate available for windows/doors is $2,500; $100 for each energy-efficient door, $125 or $150 for each energy-efficient window based on a U-Factor of 1.22 or lower;
• The application deadline is noon on January 9, 2024.

Take advantage of the Medicine Hat Existing Home Incentive Program by upgrading your windows and doors today. Not only will you enjoy long-term benefits such as lower energy bills and increased comfort, but you’ll also contribute to a greener environment. Contact the Ecoline Windows team in Medicine Hat to start planning your home improvement project and claim the maximum rebates.

FAQ

Can you apply for the rebate more than once?

Yes, you can apply for the rebate for different projects as long as the projects are eligible under the program guidelines.

What maximum rebate amount can I get for my window or door project with HAT Smart?

You can claim up to $2500 on window and door replacement projects. All your replacement models must be Energy Star rated and come with a U factor of 1.22 or lower to be eligible.

How long does it take to receive the rebate?

The processing time for rebate applications varies, but typically, you can expect to receive your rebate within 6-8 weeks of submitting your application.

Can I apply for other rebates if I was approved for the HAT Smart program?

Yes, you can go for other government programs as well. For example, Canadian Greener Homes Grant with the available rebates of up to $5600 for new windows and doors.