Participating HVAC Contractors: What Homeowners Need to Check
Last reviewed: April 17, 2026
The basic rule
Only HRS-participating HVAC contractors can submit rebate applications. If your contractor isn't on the participating list, they cannot get you the rebate — no matter how good their work is.
What “participating” actually means
A participating HVAC contractor is a company that has:
- ✓ Completed the HRS contractor registration process
- ✓ Met the program's eligibility requirements (insurance, licensing, etc.)
- ✓ Agreed to the program rules and code of conduct
- ✓ Received access to the HRS portal to submit applications on your behalf
The program explicitly does not endorse specific contractors — being participating just means they're authorized to submit. You still need to vet them on quality, pricing, and warranty.
How to get the participating contractor list
The list is not publicly searchable. You have to request it:
Save the list PDF somewhere accessible. You'll reference it whenever you contact or evaluate a contractor.
What the list includes
- • Company names
- • Contact information (phone, email)
- • Areas they serve
- • Type of heat pumps they install (air-source, ground-source, both)
How to verify someone is still participating
The list is updated periodically. A contractor could be added, removed, or reclassified. Before signing a contract:
Ask directly
"Can you confirm in writing that you're currently a participating HVAC contractor in the HRS heat pump program?"
Request their registration confirmation
Participating contractors receive confirmation from HRS. Ask to see it (screenshot is fine).
Check the latest list
If your eligibility form submission was more than 2-3 months ago, submit it again to get the current list.
Call the program if uncertain
You can reach the program at 1-866-449-8510 (Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm) to confirm participation status.
What if my contractor isn't on the list?
You have 3 options:
Option 1 — Switch contractors
Choose a contractor who is already on the list. Simplest option.
Option 2 — Ask your contractor to register
New registration for heat pump stream is open until May 31, 2026. They can register at homerenovationsavings.ca. Once approved, they can submit your rebate.
Option 3 — Proceed without rebate
Install anyway, accept no rebate. Only makes sense if the non-participating contractor is dramatically cheaper — but usually the rebate amount is bigger than any price difference.
Warning signs
⚠ "I work with HRS" — but can't name the program
If they don't know the program's actual name (Home Renovation Savings Program), they're probably not participating.
⚠ "I'll register if you sign the contract"
They're trying to commit you before they prove they can deliver the rebate. Insist on registration first.
⚠ "Don't worry about the paperwork, I handle everything"
Honest contractors handle paperwork too — but they give you copies of submissions, confirmations, and the pre-approval letter. Secrecy is a red flag.
⚠ Unsolicited call claiming they're from Save on Energy
Official program operators don't cold-call. This is a scam. Report to saveonenergy@ieso.ca.
Start with your rebate amount
Know what you qualify for before shopping contractors — it changes your negotiating position.
Calculate my rebate →Make contractor selection painless
Heat Pump Rebate Action Pack — $29
Includes a 20+ question contractor checklist specifically for verifying participation, scope, pre-approval commitment, and warranty terms. Plus quote comparison and document tracking.
See what's inside →Frequently asked questions
How do I find participating HVAC contractors in Ontario?
Submit the short eligibility form at homerenovationsavings.ca/without-assessment/heat-pumps. You'll receive the participating contractor list by email. The list isn't publicly searchable — it's sent after you submit the form.
Can any HVAC contractor submit a rebate application?
No. Only HRS-participating HVAC contractors can submit rebate applications. Non-participating contractors have no access to the program portal — even if you chose the best installer in the world, no rebate without participation.
What if my preferred contractor isn't on the participating list?
You have two options: switch to a participating contractor, or ask them to register. New contractor registration for heat pumps is open until May 31, 2026. Once registered, they appear on the list and can handle rebate applications.