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:

  1. Introduction and explanation of the process

  2. Walkthrough of the home, including basement, attic, windows, insulation, and HVAC systems

  3. A blower door test to check for air leaks

  4. Data collection on square footage, heating systems, and ventilation

  5. Advisor answers your questions and provides insights

  6. 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.

Previous
Previous

Canada’s Greener Homes Grant is Running Out: What Homeowners Need to Know

Next
Next

Understand Solar ROI: How Much Can You Actually Save by Going Solar?