By Masahda Lochan-Aristide, Communications Intern
The Energy Affordability Program (EAP) recently released a new addition to the benefits for income eligible residents of Ontario who heat with electricity. Cold climate air source heat pumps are now available free of cost to those who are income eligible. The EAP offers equipment-based measures to those seeking long term home energy solutions and heat pumps are the newest addition to these measures. From consultation to installation these heat pumps are completely cost free!
What is a cold air source heat pump?
A cold climate air source heat pump is an electric heating and cooling system that is cost and energy efficient for year-round temperature control.
How it works
Cold climate air source heat pumps transfer hot air out of the house during the summer, and transfer heat from outside into the house during winter. Designed to function in below freezing temperatures, heat pumps are a long-term solution to space heating and cooling.
The benefits
Through the EAP heat pumps are completely cost free to lower energy costs and offer long-term solutions to heating and cooling systems for Ontario residents.
Heat pumps operate as both a heating and cooling system while remaining cost effective. The key feature of a heat pump is its dual cooling function. As Ontarians experience increasingly warm summers, heat pumps can be used similarly to an air-conditioning unit to keep homes cool.
Finally, heat pumps are equipped with technology to dehumidify and filter air in the household keeping indoor air dust- and allergen-free.
Eligibility
The EAP serves all income eligible homeowners and renters. Currently, the cold climate air source heat pumps are only offered to residents of social buildings, semi-detached, duplex, triplex, or townhouses (under three stories), with a pre-existing electrical heating system.
As long-time advocates for the EAP, the Low-Income Energy Network and Canadian Environmental Law Association encourage the Ontario government to expand the program to all income-eligible families regardless of housing and heating type.
For more information about the program and eligibility criteria, please visit: https://saveonenergy.ca/
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