How to Save More When Upgrading Your Windows and Doors
If you’re a homeowner planning to upgrade your windows or doors in Ontario this year, then you may be looking for ways to make your energy-efficient renovations far more affordable.
While the total project cost of replacing windows and doors depends on several key factors, there are some government programs that can help you save significantly. In this guide, we’ll show you how to qualify for these programs, maximize your savings, and choose the right windows for long-term comfort and performance.
What are the main window rebates in Ontario for 2026?
The primary rebate for 2026 is the Home Renovation Savings Program, which offers $100 per window or door opening. To qualify, you must install ENERGY STAR® certified products and complete at least two energy-saving upgrades. For low-income households, the Energy Affordability Program (EAP) offers free replacements, while Toronto residents can access low-interest financing through the HELP program.
2026 Rebate Summary Table
| Program | Rebate Value | Key Requirement | Status |
| Home Renovation Savings (HRSP) | $100 per opening | Must do 2+ upgrades (e.g., Windows + Insulation). | Active |
| Energy Affordability (EAP) | 100% Covered | Based on household income limits. | Active |
| Toronto HELP Loan | Up to $125,000 Loan | Toronto residents only | Active |
Quick Answer: What Rebates Are Available in Ontario Right Now?
As of 2026, Ontario homeowners may qualify for:
- Home Renovation Savings Program (HRSP): $100 per window or door rough opening
- Energy Affordability Program (EAP): Free upgrades for eligible households
- Toronto HELP Program: Low-interest financing for qualifying Toronto homeowners
Several popular programs, including the Canada Greener Homes Grant and Enbridge HER+, are now closed to new applicants.
What Affects the Cost of Window Replacement?
There are several factors that can influence the overall cost of your window replacement project. Understanding them will help you plan effectively and make informed decisions:
- Window Style and color: Some intricate types of windows, like bay or bow, typically cost more than standard casement or sliding options.
- Frame Material: Vinyl is durable and low-maintenance, while wood and fiberglass offer high performance, but come at a higher upfront investment and maintenance cost.
- Glazing Options: Double-pane is standard and affordable vs Triple-pane with Low-E coatings and argon gas enhances energy efficiency but comes at a higher cost.
- Installation Type: Full-frame installation is more costly, as it involves removing the entire window, including the frame, & trim, etc. – but it offers better long-term performance than a temporary fix that comes with a repair or retrofit.
- Home Size: A full-home replacement increases total cost, but doing all your windows at once can reduce per-unit installation costs, streamline the process and provide cosistent energy-efficiency.
- Opening Conditions: Factors like your home’s exterior material, the location of each window, whether the opening needs resizing, or hidden frame deterioration can all impact installation time and cost, and some issues aren’t always visible until an in-person consultation.
2026 Ontario Window Rebate Guide: How to Claim $100+ Per Opening
Active Programs for Ontario Homeowners
The Home Renovation Savings Program (HRSP)– (Active Until November 2026)
This is the main provincial program for homeowners who are planning to tackle multiple energy-saving projects at once. It’s designed to reward you for making your home more efficient from top to bottom.
How much can you get back?
You receive $100 back for every window or door rough opening you replace. If you replace 10 windows, that’s $1,000 back in your pocket.
Do you need an energy assessment?
Yes. To unlock these savings, you need a certified energy expert to visit your home twice. They will inspect your home before any work begins and return again once the installation is finished. To help with the cost, you’ll receive a $600 rebate to cover these assessments once your project is complete.
What are the requirements to qualify?
- Eligible Homes: You must own a detached, semi-detached, or row house in Ontario.
- The “Two-Upgrade” Rule: To get the window rebate, you must complete at least two qualifying energy-saving projects.
- Quality Standards: You must install ENERGY STAR® certified windows and doors.
- Professional Installation: A licensed contractor must complete the work; DIY installations do not qualify for this program.
Which energy upgrades can you combine?
Here’s the list of available upgrades that you can combine:
- Attic Insulation: Up to $1,500
- Foundation Insulation: Up to $2,300
- Exposed Floor Insulation: $300
- Exterior Wall Insulation: Up to $3,600
- Windows & Doors: $100 per rough opening
- Heat Pump Water Heaters: $500
- Air Sealing: Up to $250
- Bundle Bonus : Get an additional $500 when you complete three qualifying upgrades from the list above.
Rebates Aren’t the Only Way to Save
Government rebate programs can help reduce project costs, but they often come with eligibility requirements, inspections, paperwork, and processing timelines.
If you’re ready to upgrade sooner, Brookstone also offers seasonal promotions and flexible financing options that can help make your project more affordable without waiting for rebate approvals.
Energy Affordability Program (Active Now)
If your household meets certain income limits, the Energy Affordability Program covers the full cost of window replacements and weatherstripping to make your home more comfortable.
Who is eligible? This program is for Ontario homeowners and tenants based on household income. For example, a family of four making under ~$84,800 often qualifies for this support.
Rebate Value: 100% of the cost is covered. You pay $0 for the windows or the professional installation.
The Process:
- Assessment: A certified expert visits your home to identify inefficient appliances and insulation gaps.
- Review: A program partner reviews the data to see which new ENERGY STAR® equipment you qualify for. (Note: Insulation is typically reserved for electrically heated homes).
- Notification: You receive a letter or email listing the specific upgrades you’ve been offered.
- Installation: You accept the offer, and a professional team schedules a date to install your new equipment and dispose of the old items.
Home Energy Loan Program (Toronto Only)
The Home Energy Loan Program (HELP) provides the funding you need upfront so you can pay for your window or door upgrades over time through your property tax bill.
- Who is eligible? You must own a residential property in Toronto and have a clean property tax history.
- What is the value? You can access a low-interest loan for up to $125,000 to cover your project costs with $0 down. You can use this loan to pay for the project and still collect the $100 per window rebate from the The Home Renovation Savings Program.
- The Process:
- Apply: Submit an online application to get your maximum funding offer.
- Assess: Get a home energy audit and a quote from a contractor like Brookstone.
- Sign: Sign the City’s agreement (you can request a 30% advance for deposits).
- Install: Complete your upgrades and a final “post-work” energy audit.
- Repay: Pay the loan back in monthly installments via your property tax bill.
Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program (Coming Soon)
You may have seen news about a new federal program called the Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program (CGHAP).
This will be a new federal program offering free home upgrades for low-to-median-income families.
While this program has started in provinces like Manitoba, Ontario is still finalizing the agreement as of early 2026. Because the agreement is not yet signed, Ontario homeowners cannot apply for this specific federal stream yet. We recommend checking back with us later this year; we will update this guide the moment the portal opens for Ontario residents.
Sources:Natural Resources Canada, Toronto Home Energy Loan, Save on Energy, Home Renovation Savings
Warning: These Programs are CLOSED
Do not try to apply for these programs, as they are no longer taking new applications in 2026:
- The $5,000 Greener Homes Grant (Closed)
- The Enbridge HER+ Program (Closed)
- The 10-Year Interest-Free Loan (Closed)
Note: While you might not be eligible for some government rebate and loan programs, you can still move forward with your window or door replacement project. At Brookstone, we regularly offer seasonal promotions to help make your upgrades more affordable – without relying on rebate timelines or approvals.
Sources:Enbridge Gas HER+,Natural Resources Canada
Who’s Eligible for Rebates?
To access most Ontario window and door rebates, you must:
- Own and live in the home
- Complete a home energy evaluation
- Use approved ENERGY STAR® certified products
- Hire a licensed contractor (like Brookstone Windows & Doors – that’s us)
Brookstone’s team can guide you through each step. All you need to do is book your free consultation and let our product specialist know that you’re interested to learn more.
How to Maximize Your ROI
Replace More, Save More: Larger projects qualify for higher rebate totals, lowering your cost per window. And installation becomes more efficient when done all at once, than in phases.
Invest in energy upgrades: Better insulation means lower monthly bills. Example: Triple-pane and insulated options may cost more upfront, but reduce energy use over time, boosting long-term savings.
Boost curb appeal and home value: Whether you’re refreshing your home’s look or preparing to sell, ENERGY STAR® windows are a must-have feature that can increase resale value and attract buyers.
What Windows Qualify?
To be eligible for rebates, your windows must:
- Be ENERGY STAR® certified
- Include Low-E glass, argon-filled panes, or triple-glazing
- Be professionally installed with airtight sealing
Brookstone’s windows are custom-built in Canada for Ontario’s climate and exceed these standards, delivering better performance and durability.
5 Common Mistakes That Could Cost You Your Rebate
Many homeowners unintentionally disqualify themselves because the rules are strict. To protect your savings, avoid these common errors:
- Starting work too early: You must have your pre-retrofit energy assessment completed before any old windows are removed.
- Choosing the wrong products: Only ENERGY STAR® certified windows and doors qualify. Always double-check the model numbers with your contractor.
- Doing it yourself: Rebate programs require professional installation by a licensed contractor to ensure the energy savings are real.
- Replacing only the glass: To get the $100 rebate, you must replace the “rough opening” (the full window unit), not just the glass or sash.
- Missing the second upgrade: For the HRSP program, replacing windows alone won’t trigger the rebate. You must pair it with another upgrade like air sealing or insulation.
TLDR: If you want a rebate in 2026, you need an energy audit before you start, you must choose ENERGY STAR products, and you usually need to do two different energy projects.
Why 2026 Is a Great Time to Upgrade
Replacing outdated windows isn’t just about boosting curb appeal – it’s one of the most effective ways to:
- Improve year-round comfort
- Lower energy bills
- Reduce outdoor noise
- Increase your home’s resale value
Why Wait on Rebates?
Rebate programs can be helpful, but they often involve approvals, inspections, and processing timelines that can vary and they’re not always guaranteed.
For homeowners who prefer a more straightforward path, Brookstone offers seasonal promotions and flexible financing options so you can move forward with your project without delays.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Rebates can be helpful, but they’re not the only way to make your project more affordable.
Brookstone offers flexible financing options and seasonal promotions that can help you upgrade your windows and doors now while spreading payments over time.
Whether you’re replacing a few windows or planning a full-home upgrade, our team can help you compare products, pricing, and available offers so you can make the right decision for your home.