What is the Every Kilowatt Counts - Heating and Cooling Rebate Program?
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What is the goal of the Every Kilowatt Counts - Heating and Cooling Rebate Program?
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How does the Every Kilowatt Counts - Heating and Cooling Rebate Program work?
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When does the program start and end?
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When do the rebate offers start and expire?
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What are the deadlines for submitting my rebate claim?
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Who is eligible to receive the rebates?
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What are the terms of the $25 programmable thermostat rebate?
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What is a programmable thermostat?
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What are the benefits of installing a programmable thermostat?
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I replaced my old thermostat before January 1st, 2009. Do I qualify for the rebate?
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Why does not this program allow homeowners to buy and install programmable thermostats themselves?
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What are the terms of the $250 ENERGY STAR qualified CAC, heat pump, or ductless split system replacement offer (NOTE: ENERGY STAR qualified criteria = minimum 14.5 SEER and 12.0 EER)?
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What are the terms of the $400 rebate to homeowners for the purchase of a replacement stand-alone "Tier 2" level central air conditioning system?
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What are the terms of the $525 rebate for the purchase of a CAC and a mid or high efficiency furnace combination which meet the Tier 2 level?
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Why does not this program offer rebates for homeowners installing new air conditioning systems?
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I replaced my existing central AC system with an ENERGY STAR of Tier 2 qualified system before January 1st, 2009. Do I qualify for the rebate?
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What is an ENERGY STAR qualified air conditioning system?
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What does SEER mean?
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What is an ARI Reference Number?
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Why are window air conditioning units not included in the rebate program?
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Why are the rebates for ENERGY STAR® qualified replacement systems only?
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What are the terms of the $125 purchase of a mid or high efficiency ECM equipped furnace or air handler offer?
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I purchased a new ECM before January 1st, 2009. Do I qualify for the rebate?
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What is an ECM Motor?
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Do Oil, Gas, Propane, and Electric furnaces qualify?
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How do I know if the furnace equipment I am purchasing qualifies for the rebate?
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How do I get my rebate?
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What is the deadline for submitting a claim?
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How long will it take for me to get my cheque?
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How can I check the status of my claim?
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How can I find a participating contractor in my area?
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What are the eligibility requirements for contractors to participate in the Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebate Program?
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Why do contractors have to be registered to participate in this program?
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Do contractors have to be a member of the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors of Canada (HRAC) to participate in this program?
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Can the Ontario Power Authority or HRAI recommend a contractor for me to use?
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How should I select a contractor?
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Who is funding this program?
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Who is the Ontario Power Authority?
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What is HRAI?
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How is HRAI involved in the Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebate Program?
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What is the Every Kilowatt Counts - Heating and Cooling Rebate Program?
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The Every Kilowatt Counts - Heating and Cooling Rebate Program is a program offered by the Conservation Bureau of the Ontario Power Authority to encourage homeowners to install energy efficient heating and cooling equipment.
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What is the goal of the Every Kilowatt Counts - Heating and Cooling Rebate Program?
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The goal of the program is to reduce Ontario'a electricity consumption and demand associated with residential heating and cooling by providing Ontario residents with incentives to purchase an ENERGY STAR qualified central air conditioner (CAC) when their existing system needs replacement;
* purchase an energy efficient heating system with an electronically commutated motor (ECM) when their existing system needs replacement;
* have a programmable thermostat supplied and installed by a qualified HVAC contractor; and to
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How does the Every Kilowatt Counts - Heating and Cooling Rebate Program work?
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Under the Program, an incentive is being offered for homeowners who replace their existing furnaces with an eligible furnace that is equipped with an ECM, replace their existing CAC system with a qualified ENERGY STAR or Tier 2 CAC system or install a new, programmable thermostat to replace their old, non-programmable one.
To be eligible for the rebates, the services MUST be performed by a Program-registered contractor within the dates specified for each rebate. Contractors will provide residents with the appropriate details and outline the procedures for submission of their claim upon completion of the product installation.
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When does the program start and end?
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The program commences on January 1st and expires on December 31, 2009
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When do the rebate offers start and expire?
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Homeowners who have eligible equipment installed by a program registered contractor between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2009 may qualify for the incentive
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What are the deadlines for submitting my rebate claim?
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Claims for eligible ENERGY STAR qualified or better CAC system replacements, ECM-equipped furnace installations, and programmable thermostat rebates must be postmarked no later than February 1, 2010.
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Who is eligible to receive the rebates?
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The Program is available to any Ontario resident who replaces their existing CAC system with a qualified ENERGY STAR qualified system, and/or has an eligible ECM-equipped furnace installed to replace their existing furnace and/or installs a new, programmable thermostat. Specific terms and conditions apply to each rebate. Please consult the rules and regulations of the Program carefully to ensure that you are eligible for the different rebates. Parts of the Program are time sensitive (both for participating and in claiming your rebate). Consult The Every Kilowatt Counts website: www.everykilowattcounts.com for detailed rebate rules.
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What are the terms of the $25 programmable thermostat rebate?
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The terms of the $25 programmable thermostat rebate are as follows:
* The offer only applies to customers who do not currently have a programmable thermostat.
* The programmable thermostat MUST be purchased from and installed by a program registered contractor.
* Service MUST be performed between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2009.
* Claims for thermostat rebate must be postmarked no later than February 1, 2010.
* Invoices accompanying the online claim submission need to indicate the word "programmable" in the description of the thermostat and should list the manufacturer's name and model number.
* Where the thermostat is offered in combination with other products or services (for example, as part of a purchase of a complete heating and cooling system) the name of the manufacturer and brand of the thermostat needs to be indicated separately on the invoice.
* Where the contractor's invoice covers only the purchase and installation of a programmable thermostat, and no other pricing information pertaining to the purchase of the equipment or servicing is indicated, the invoice MUST clearly list the price of the thermostat as well as the manufacturer and brand name.
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What is a programmable thermostat?
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A programmable thermostat is a device which controls heating/cooling systems according to a set (or programmed ) schedule established by the homeowner. The thermostat allows the homeowner to automatically change the temperature of their home at different preset times.
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What are the benefits of installing a programmable thermostat?
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A programmable thermostat with a built-in timer lets you automatically change the temperature in your home when you leave for the day, and set it back automatically to your desired temperature just before you return. Research indicates that the energy savings from thermostat setback is approximately 1%/ºC. Properly programmed, these thermostats can easily pay for themselves in the first year! Just think of the savings over five or ten years. For example, during the cooling season when you're home you can have your thermostat set at 25ºC. While you're away at work, the thermostat can be automatically programmed for 28ºC!
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I replaced my old thermostat before January 1st, 2009. Do I qualify for the rebate?
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| No, to be eligible for the rebate, installation of the new programmable must occur between January 1st and December 31st, 2009. | |
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Why does not this program allow homeowners to buy and install programmable thermostats themselves?
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We recommend that homeowners take advantage of their contractor's expertise to install a programmable thermostat while in their home servicing the air conditioner. The contractor can ensure they have the correct thermostat for their system and teach them how to use it properly for maximum energy efficiency.
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What are the terms of the $250 ENERGY STAR qualified CAC, heat pump, or ductless split system replacement offer (NOTE: ENERGY STAR qualified criteria = minimum 14.5 SEER and 12.0 EER)?
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The terms of the $250 CAC rebate on the replacement of an existing CAC system with an ENERGY STAR® qualified system are as follows:
* Installation must occur between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2009.
* This offer applies only to customers with existing CAC systems.
* Claims for ENERGY STAR® qualified CAC system rebates must be postmarked no later than February 1, 2010.
* The CAC system must be purchased and installed by a program registered contracto | |
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What are the terms of the $400 rebate to homeowners for the purchase of a replacement stand-alone "Tier 2" level central air conditioning system?
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* Installation must occur between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2009.
* This offer applies only to customers with existing CAC systems.
* Claims for eligible Tier 2 system rebates must be postmarked no later than February 1, 2010.
* Service must be performed by a program registered contractor
* CEE's "Tier 2" level means the installed product must be at least 15 SEER and 12.5 EER.
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What are the terms of the $525 rebate for the purchase of a CAC and a mid or high efficiency furnace combination which meet the Tier 2 level?
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The terms of the rebates for the purchase of these units are as follows:
* Installation must occur between January 1st and December 31st, 2009.
* Claims for combined qualified CAC Systems/ECM equipped furnaces meeting the Tier 2 level must be received by February 1st, 2010.
* The units must be purchased through and installed by a program-registered contractor. | |
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Why does not this program offer rebates for homeowners installing new air conditioning systems?
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The Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebateis focused on the estimated 2 million existing central air conditioning units in Ontario that are running inefficiently or in need of replacement. Replacing old, inefficient unit is a win/win situation as homeowners save on cooling costs, the environment benefits from reduced emissions and the government saves money on electricity generation. We are giving these homeowners the tools to take control of their energy costs.
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I replaced my existing central AC system with an ENERGY STAR of Tier 2 qualified system before January 1st, 2009. Do I qualify for the rebate?
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No, to be eligible for the rebate, installation of the replacement system must occur between January 1st and December 31st, 2009.
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What is an ENERGY STAR qualified air conditioning system?
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The ENERGY STAR rating indicates that the product meets or exceeds a premium level of energy efficiency. ENERGY STAR in Canada is a voluntary arrangement between Natural Resources Canada¡¯s Office of Energy Efficiency and organizations that manufacture, sell or promote products that meet the ENERGY STAR levels of energy performance. Please visit www.energystar.gc.ca for more information.
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What does SEER mean?
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Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER, is a measure of the energy efficiency of a central air conditioning system over one cooling season. It represents the total cooling output of a central air conditioner or heat pump during the normal cooling season (in Btu) compared with the total electricity (in watt hours) consumed during the same period. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient.
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What is an ARI Reference Number?
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To qualify for the Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebate, the newly installed system must include an ENERGY STAR -rated outdoor unit matched to a properly sized and specified indoor evaporator coil.
The AHRI Verified Directory will be the reference source for the new rebate fulfillment house when processing claims for ENERGY STAR qualified systems. Systems that are not listed on this database will not be accepted for claims. The ARI Reference number is MANDATORY and MUST be provided on the online claim form. If you have questions about the AHRI website, contact HRAI for further help.
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Why are window air conditioning units not included in the rebate program?
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The vast majority of homeowners in Ontario with air conditioning use central air systems. The Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebates Program is aimed at encouraging this large group to conserve energy and take control of their energy costs
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Why are the rebates for ENERGY STAR® qualified replacement systems only?
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ENERGY STAR is a recognized rating system throughout North America for energy-using appliances and equipment that denotes high efficiency products. The system replacement rebate offered as part of the Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebate Program is limited to ENERGY STAR qualified systems in order to encourage residents to purchase high efficiency products that exceed minimum efficiency standards.
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What are the terms of the $125 purchase of a mid or high efficiency ECM equipped furnace or air handler offer?
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The terms of the rebates for the purchase of an ECM equipped furnace or air handler are as follows:
* Homeowners must have existing mid or high-efficiency furnaces not currently equipped with an ECM. Homeowners must purchase a qualified new mid or high-efficiency furnace or air handler equipped with an ECM.
* Service (including purchase and installation) MUST be performed by a program registered contractor.
* Homeowners must install an eligible mid or high-efficiency furnace or air handler equipped with an ECM that is included on the list available to program registered contractors.
* Installation must occur between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2009.
* Claims for eligible furnace ECM rebates must be postmarked no later than February 1, 2010.
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I purchased a new ECM before January 1st, 2009. Do I qualify for the rebate?
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No, to be eligible for the rebate, installation of the new ECM must occur between January 1st and December 31st, 2009.
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What is an ECM Motor?
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| An ECM (Electronically Commutated Motor) is a brushless motor technology in forced-air heating application, which can reduce the electrical consumption of the furnace motor by as much as 60% over the standard motor. | |
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Do Oil, Gas, Propane, and Electric furnaces qualify?
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Oil, Gas &, Propane furnaces will qualify, as long as they are included on the ECM Eligibility List. However, Electric furnaces will not qualify under The Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebates Program.
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How do I know if the furnace equipment I am purchasing qualifies for the rebate?
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Program-registered contractors have been provided with a list, by manufacturer, of the eligible ECM-equipped furnaces and air handlers.
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How do I get my rebate?
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Upon completion of the furnace/CAC system replacement and/or thermostat replacement, your program registered contractor will complete your claim submission form online and forward it to you via email to verify the submission. Along with the claim submission details the email will also include detailed instructions informing you how to complete the submission of your claims. In addition the email will also clearly outline the Terms & Conditions, as well as the Privacy Policy for this program.
If you do not have access to email, your registered contractor will provide you with a manual copy of your claim form as well as detailed instructions informing you how to submit you claim via mail or fax. They will also provide you with manual copies of the Terms & Conditions and the Privacy Policy.
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What is the deadline for submitting a claim?
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All submissions must be received by February 1st, 2010.
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How long will it take for me to get my cheque?
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Your rebate cheque will arrive within approximately 6 ¨C 8 weeks of submitting the claim, provided the equipment meets eligibility requirements and all documentation is completed and included with your submission. It is important to include all model numbers of equipment on the invoice matching the online claim form and submit the endorsed original invoice.
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How can I check the status of my claim?
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14 days after you submit your claim, you can call 1-877-797-9473 to check the status and estimated ship date of your rebate, or contractors may check the status of their customer¡¯s claims on the participating contractor¡¯s website.
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How can I find a participating contractor in my area?
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| For the list of registered contractors, go to The Every Kilowatt Counts website at www.everykilowattcounts.com and look for this Program under ¡°All Rebates¡± or call 1-877-797-9473. | |
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What are the eligibility requirements for contractors to participate in the Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebate Program?
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To register to the Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebate Program, contractors must meet the following eligibility requirements:
* For ECM-equipped furnace installations: TSSA Registration number and Gas Technician 1 or 2 or OBT 1 or 2 License
* For ENERGY STAR qualified CAC system replacements: 313A Refrigeration and Air Conditioning license or a 313D Residential Air Conditioning License
* Minimum of $2 million in liability insurance coverage
* Letter of clearance from WSIB. (If the contractor is a sole proprietor, then they are WSIB exempt.)
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Why do contractors have to be registered to participate in this program?
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All contractors must register for the program and complete a program orientation session so that the technicians who visit homeowners fully understand the terms of the program and can explain them to homeowners when in their homes. Contractors must also validate during the registration process that they have qualified technicians to perform the work required and that they possess the necessary business licenses and liability insurance coverage.
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Do contractors have to be a member of the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors of Canada (HRAC) to participate in this program?
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No. Non HRAC-members are also able to participate in this program provided at the time of registration; the owner provides:
* For ECM-equipped furnace installations: TSSA Registration number and Gas Technician 1 or 2 or OBT 1 or 2 License
* For ENERGY STAR® qualified CAC system replacements: 313A Refrigeration and Air Conditioning license or a 313D Residential Air Conditioning License
* Minimum of $2 million in liability insurance coverage
* Letter of clearance from WSIB. (If the contractor is a sole proprietor, then they are WSIB exempt.)
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Can the Ontario Power Authority or HRAI recommend a contractor for me to use?
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No. The Ontario Power Authority (OPA) and the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) do not endorse contractors participating in The Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebates Program and make no representations, warranties or guarantees as to, and assume no responsibility for, the conduct, products or services of or provided by such contractors for the Program or otherwise.
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How should I select a contractor?
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Please click here for tips on selecting and hiring an air conditioning contractor: http://www.hrac.ca/pages/consumertips.htm
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Who is funding this program?
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The Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebate Program is being funded by the Ontario Power Authority.
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Who is the Ontario Power Authority?
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The Ontario Power Authority was established under the Electricity Restructuring Act, 2004 and commenced operations in January, 2005. It is a not-for-profit corporation without share capital and is governed by an independent Board of Directors, with its activities and programs directed by a Chief Executive Officer. The OPA reports to the Ontario Legislative Assembly through the Minister of Energy and is licensed and regulated by the Ontario Energy Board.
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What is HRAI?
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The Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI), is the national HVACR industry association. HRAI is a partnership of industry sector organizations that represents Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR) manufacturers, wholesalers and contractors who provide the Canadian public with products and services for indoor comfort and essential refrigeration processes
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How is HRAI involved in the Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebate Program?
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HRAI is providing administrative and technical support to the Conservation Bureau in the design, management and execution of the Every Kilowatt Counts ¨C Heating and Cooling Rebate Program.
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