Here are some great ideas for installing a quality HVAC system on a budget. A central air conditioning unit can cost you anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000 depending on the size of home that you own and the type of system you install. Learn more below, or get a free quote today!

How to Install a Quality HVAC System on a Budget
Does the summer heat get you down, but you aren’t sure that your budget will cover the installation of a new HVAC system? Read on to discover some awesome ways to purchase an HVAC system on a budget.
1. Look for Government Rebates
Local, provincial, and federal governments often offer rebates for home renovations including upgrading your HVAC system to a more energy-efficient one. These rebates change from year to year, so it is important to check to see if there are any current ones that you can take advantage of.
Natural Resources Canada has a directory that will let you look up all current Energy Star rebates and incentives. You can search by province, level of government, and sector. Click here to access this directory.
Natural Resources Canada also has a directory of Energy Efficiency and Alternative Energy Programs in Canada. This directory lists all of the current programs that promote the “efficient use or conservation of energy at the end-use level and/or the use of alternative energy in Canada.” Click here to access this directory.

Search the Natural Resources Canada directory for Energy Star rebates – Image Source: Buntyshashi [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)]
2. Look for Rebates from Energy Companies
Energy companies as well may be offering rebates to help you with your upgrade.
Union Gas Rebates
If you are a customer of Union Gas, you may be eligible for up to $5000 back on home renovation costs for certain energy-efficient upgrades that you make to your home. These rebates include up to $750 for HVAC systems.
You need to have an energy assessment done for your home by a certified energy advisor before and after you do the renovations. You also need to do at least two upgrades to be eligible, which could include:
- Upgrading your furnace
- Upgrading your boiler
- Getting an energy-efficient hot water heater
- Replacing your windows, door or skylights with Energy Star ones
- Upgrading your insulation
Enbridge Rebates
If you heat your home with natural gas and live in the Enbridge Gas territory, you may qualify for a rebate from Enbridge when you do energy upgrades through their Home Energy Conservation program. You could qualify for up to $2,100 in incentives, which includes a $150 “instant rebate” to help cover the cost of your first energy audit. You don’t need to be an Enbridge customer, however, you do need to get an energy assessment audit by an Enbridge-approved CEA (Certified Energy Advisor) before and after you make your upgrades.
Enbridge is also offering a $100 credit back on your account if you install a qualifying “smart thermostat” such as a NEST Learning Thermostat.

You may also qualify for money back when you purchase a NEST Learning Thermostat – Image Source: Amazon.ca
Rebate Tips
- Make sure that the rebate is still in effect and that you are eligible before you make your purchase.
- Make sure you follow all the requirements, such as getting an energy audit so that you won’t forfeit your rebate
- Hire a trained technician you trust to do any installations
3. Choose the Right Contractor
When you are purchasing an HVAC system on a budget, don’t be tempted to cut costs when hiring a trained technician. Hiring an inexperienced installer will most likely end up costing you more in the long run. A system that isn’t installed properly or is the wrong size or type for your home will not work as efficiently. It also will not last as long as one that is the right type for your situation. You may find that you spend much more on repairs and replacement costs than if you chose to go with an HVAC technician with a solid reputation.

Choose a trained HVAC technician to do your installation
4. Identify Your Needs
There is a science to choosing the right HVAC system for your home. A unit that is too big or too small for your space will not be a good choice for you. Make sure that you select a technician that you can trust to not try to sell you a larger unit than you actually need.
5. Book Your HVAC Install During the Off-Season
The summer and winter months are the busiest times of the year for HVAC technicians. If you book the installation of your new air conditioner in the off-seasons of the spring or the fall, you may be able to get a better deal.

You Can Trust Draft Control to Install Your HVAC System
Draft Control HVAC is a highly trusted heating and air conditioning company servicing the East Ottawa region. Unlike other companies, we focus on our customers and their complete satisfaction, not on the brands that we sell. Whether you require installation, repair, or maintenance for your furnace, air conditioner, water heater, gas BBQ and fireplace, or boiler; you can trust Draft Control. Contact us today for all your heating and cooling needs.
“Selim came out to our place to quote a replacement air conditioner and hot water tank. He was honest, and did not try to sell us something we didn’t need…He certainly takes pride in his work, and hands down I would recommend him to anyone looking for HVAC work. Thanks Selim!” -Ryan M
Financing Available!
Great news, Draft Control now offers financing through EcoHome Financial. If you know that you need to a new air conditioner and furnace and want to replace HVAC system, but you weren’t sure how you were going to do it financially, we can help. Contact Draft Control to learn more.
We Even Offer a Military Discount!
Draft Control is proud to offer a 10% discount to our military personnel. Contact us today to learn more.

