1. What’s Free and Who Runs It
HomeWarming for Oil, Gas & Wood Heated Homes
Run by Efficiency Nova Scotia, this program sends a certified auditor to your door—totally free—and then arranges for contractors to weather-seal, add insulation, even upgrade ductwork if needed. You just qualify by income and having lived in your home at least six months.
HomeWarming for Electric Heat Homes
If you heat with baseboards or electric furnaces, the Clean Foundation steps in with the same “audit-and-upgrade” package. No charge for qualifying households, and the process mirrors its non-electric counterpart.
Your Energy Rebate Program (YERP)
Every Nova Scotian who pays HST on home energy gets 9% back on their bills automatically. If you ever missed it, you can apply to claim past rebates—easy money, right?
HEAT Fund (Home Energy Assistance Top-Up)
In partnership with Nova Scotia Power and the Salvation Army, the HEAT Fund is a one-time winter boost for low-income homes. Need help right when the chill hits? This is your lifeline.
2. How to Get Started
- Check You’re Eligible
- For HomeWarming, your income must sit below provincial low-income cut-offs and your home must be owner-occupied for at least six months.
- YERP is automatic for bill-payers; only apply if you didn’t get your rebate.
- HEAT Fund applicants need proof of low income and heating bills.
- Gather Your Paperwork
- Proof of income (tax assessments or pay stubs)
- Proof of ownership (property tax bill or assessment notice)
- A recent energy bill or two
- Apply Online or by Phone
- HomeWarming (non-electric): efficiencyNS.ca or 1-877-434-2136
- HomeWarming (electric): cleanfoundation.ca/energy
- YERP: mostly automatic, but past rebates at novascotia.ca/yerp
- HEAT Fund: through Salvation Army channels starting each January
- Book Your Free Audit
A friendly auditor will snoop around your attic, basement, and everywhere in between, then recommend what’s needed—no cost to you. - Enjoy Your Upgrades
Once approved, contractors arrive and install air seals, insulation, or whatever fixes your home needs. You just sit back and watch those drafts disappear.
3. Quick Comparison
| Program | What You Get | Who’s It For | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| HomeWarming (Efficiency NS) | Insulation, air sealing | Low-income, non-electric | online at efficiencyNS.ca or call |
| HomeWarming (Clean Foundation) | Same as above | Low-income, electric | cleanfoundation.ca/energy |
| Your Energy Rebate Program (YERP) | 9% back on energy bills | All HST-paying residents | automatic or novascotia.ca/yerp |
| HEAT Fund (Salvation Army) | Emergency heating help | Low-income households | apply via Salvation Army in winter |
4. FAQs You’ll Actually Use
Can renters join in?
Unfortunately, HomeWarming is homeowner-only. Tenants can still benefit from the YERP rebate on their own bills.
How fast will I see results?
Once you’re approved, expect your audit within 2–4 weeks and upgrades shortly after—often before the next big cold snap.
Can I mix and match programs?
Absolutely. Pair HomeWarming’s deep retrofits with YERP’s bill rebates and even HEAT Fund help if you qualify.
Is there an income cap on the HEAT Fund?
Yes—it’s aimed at households under financial strain. The Salvation Army sets the exact thresholds each winter.
By taking advantage of these no-cost programs, you’ll slash drafts, pad your walls with insulation, and enjoy a warmer home without the sticker shock. Ready to kick off? Pick the program that fits, gather your documents, and let Nova Scotia’s experts handle the rest—your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.
