So, what is a home retrofit?
Let’s start with the basics. Energy retrofits are all the ways you renovate or update your home so it consumes less energy, uses energy more efficiently, and/or uses low carbon mechanical systems. People have different reasons to do this work, but most are just looking to make their home more comfortable and less costly to heat and cool. Others want the latest technology as they move to more ‘smart’ home systems.
Unlike building a new home from scratch, retrofitting is all about upgrading what you already have. It’s like giving your home a much-needed makeover, but instead of focusing on aesthetics, you’re enhancing its comfort and improving energy efficiency. This sets you up to enjoy your home over the long term and maybe even make it more attractive if you ever sell your home.
Whether you’re thinking about sealing gaps around your doors, improving insulation, or even installing solar panels – these are all examples of retrofits. The goal? To make your home nicer to be in, keep warm air in during the winter and out during the summer, and manage moisture, potentially saving you money on those pesky utility bills. And let’s not forget – it’s also a great way to reduce the pollution your home creates.
Why should you care about retrofitting?
We get it – retrofitting might sound like a lot of work, but the benefits make it worth the effort. Here’s why you should seriously consider retrofitting your home…
Energy savings
A well-executed retrofit can drastically reduce the amount of energy your home uses. In BC, where winters can be severe, improved insulation and air sealing can keep your home cozy without overworking your heating system. The result? Lower energy bills and more money in your pocket.
Increased comfort
Imagine a home that’s warm in the winter and cool in the summer – without having big swings in temperature. Retrofitting your heating, cooling, ventilation and insulation systems means your home will maintain a more consistent and comfortable temperature year-round.
Environmental impact
With a home that doesn’t let warm air escape in the winter, you’re heating system doesn’t have to work as hard, so you simply consume less electricity. If your retrofit includes switching to more efficient and low-carbon systems like a heat pump, induction stove, or electric water heater, you’ll also be using BC’s 98% renewable electricity.
Home value
Thinking of selling your home down the road? Modern energy-efficient homes are increasingly in demand. Retrofitting can boost your property’s value and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
Accessible rebates, incentives and financing options
One of the most exciting aspects of retrofitting in BC is the wealth of rebates, incentives, and financing options available to homeowners. The provincial and federal governments along with utility companies offer various programs designed to make retrofitting more affordable. Many local governments also offer incentives that can be layered on.
Improved resilience to extreme weather events
A key part of considering your house as a system is making sure the air inside is healthy and the right temperature. Across BC we have experienced extreme heat alongside wildfire smoke events. When you improve your building envelope to keep warm, smoky air out during these times, your indoor air quality will be much improved. Plus, when you add a heat pump, you don’t have to open your windows at night to cool down your home because you’ll have air conditioning, and many heat pump and ventilation systems have modern air filtration systems. We don’t want to think about the increasing number of days with unhealthy and unsafe outdoor weather, but part of energy retrofitting is preparing your home for the future, and that does include a changing climate.
What makes an energy retrofit “modern”?
So, what sets a modern home energy retrofit apart from the retrofits of the past? Today’s retrofits are all about a holistic – or ‘House as a System’ – approach to managing the home.
The term ‘House as a System’ is becoming more prominent these days, it describes the fact that while your windows, doors, insulation, heating and cooling systems, ventilation, foundations and roof are all separate, they interact together as a multi-component system. Rather than focusing on just one aspect of your home, a modern energy retrofit looks at the bigger picture. It’s about creating a home that’s not only energy-efficient but also comfortable and healthy. This might mean focusing on air leaks and insulation before you decide on the right ventilation system and before your HVAC contractor evaluates and upgrades your heating and cooling system.
Changes to one component may impact another so it’s important to consider everything and the order in which you upgrade them.
Retrofitting your home is one of the best ways to improve your home’s efficiency, comfort, and value. Plus, it’s a step towards reducing your carbon footprint and increasing potential cost savings – something we can all get behind. So, whether you’re just getting started or looking to take your retrofit game to the next level, now is a great time to give your home the upgrade it deserves.
Remember, retrofitting is about making your home a better place to live by using current building science and modern technology.
Retrofit Assist works with homeowners to provide free expert guidance and access to financing on the journey to a more comfortable and energy efficient home. Contact us for more information.
