What to Expect During Your EnerGuide Home Evaluation
Key Takeaways/TLDR
An EnerGuide evaluation is required to access Canada’s Greener Homes Loan
The visit includes a thorough energy audit of your home
The process takes around 2 to 3 hours
You’ll receive a report with recommendations and an official EnerGuide label
LUMI Renewables helps you book and prepare for the evaluation
What Is an EnerGuide Home Evaluation?
An EnerGuide home evaluation is a government-approved energy audit that shows how energy efficient your home is. It’s the first step for homeowners applying for the Canada Greener Homes Loan and helps you plan your upgrades, including solar.
The evaluation is conducted by a registered energy advisor, who inspects your home and provides a detailed report showing:
How much energy does your home use
Where energy is being lost
How your home compares to similar homes
What upgrades could reduce your energy bills
Why You Need One
If you’re applying for the Canada Greener Homes Loan, you must undergo an EnerGuide pre-retrofit evaluation before you begin any solar or energy-efficiency upgrades.
Skipping this step can make you ineligible for the loan or delay your application.
How to Prepare for the Evaluation
Before the energy advisor arrives, here are a few things to do:
Clear access to your attic hatch, furnace, hot water tank, and exterior walls
Have your recent energy bills ready, if available
Make sure all windows and doors are closed before the blower door test
Set aside 2 to 3 hours for the complete inspection
You don’t need to clean the whole house, but the advisor will need access to key parts of your home.
What Happens During the Visit
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Introduction and explanation of the process
Walkthrough of the home, including basement, attic, windows, insulation, and HVAC systems
A blower door test to check for air leaks
Data collection on square footage, heating systems, and ventilation
Advisor answers your questions and provides insights
You receive your EnerGuide label and report a few days later
What You’ll Receive After the Evaluation
An EnerGuide rating showing your home’s efficiency
A Homeowner Information Sheet with your energy use details
A Recommended Upgrade Report to guide your next steps
This documentation is required to proceed with the Greener Homes Loan
How LUMI Renewables Helps
We work with certified energy advisors and will help you:
Schedule your EnerGuide evaluation at a convenient time
Prepare your home for a smooth inspection
Understand the results and what they mean for your solar project
Use the evaluation to strengthen your Greener Homes Loan application
We take the guesswork out of the process so you can confidently move forward.
Final Thoughts
The EnerGuide home evaluation is a crucial first step for homeowners looking to go solar or make energy upgrades with federal incentives. With the right preparation and guidance, it can be a smooth and informative experience.
📞 Book a free consultation with LUMI Renewables today
We’ll help you schedule your EnerGuide evaluation and start your solar journey correctly.