Heat Pump Rebate Program in Ontario – An Ontario Resident’s How-To Guide.

Heat Pump Rebate Program in Ontario – An Ontario Resident’s How-To Guide.

Once again, homeowners may be eligible for a rebate to improve the energy efficiency of their home. This happened before when our government wanted us to switch from oil to electricity, from electricity to natural gas, then mid efficiency, and later on 99% efficiency gas appliances!

It’s essential to remain cautious of potential scams and aggressive sales tactics. This article by Blackrock HVAC of Ontario aims to inform and raise awareness of the rebate program and its benefits. Please remember that sales tactics today are much more aggressive and A.I sophisticated. Door to door sales is illegal since 2002. If you’re interested in upgrading your HVAC system, please feel free to contact us first for an appointment.

Coming straight outta the pockets of the taxpayers, an entire $13 billion dollars will be distributed to homeowners across Canada to the ones who do some things around the house in 2023 and until the money is gone.

Natural Resources Canada and Enbridge Gas, together with their almighty Government of Canada, in bed with their overlords at WEF, decided that electricity is more up their globalist agenda. At Blackrock HVAC of Ontario, we have nothing in common with Blackrock in New York other than the love of jet fuel and carbon emissions!

Are Heat Pumps Worth It?

At BR HVAC, we understand that opinions on heating spaces with electricity vary. As HVAC professionals, we’ve been working around Toronto since the early 2000s and have heard stories from homeowners about very high electricity rates and their preference for gas furnaces or water heaters. In the 2010s, we began replacing aging units while implementing better installation practices, we also began installing Mitsubishi Mr.Slim mini splits.

Prior to the pandemic, heat pump systems were gaining popularity in Europe and Canada was testing their effectiveness in typical-sized buildings in cold weather climates. In 2023, the industry has become increasingly horny for heat pumps, so get ready for cheesy radio ads and lawn sign scams. Fortunately, in 2002, door-to-door HVAC sales were made illegal.

This rebate is available to residential homeowners who install energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment in their homes, including heat pump systems. At BR HVAC, we’re focusing on offering two popular options to our Greater Toronto customers: upgrades to forced-air furnace systems and ductless mini-splits that qualify.

If you’re considering upgrading your HVAC system, we encourage you to take advantage of the rebate program and explore your options. At BR HVAC, we’re committed to providing our customers with high-quality HVAC systems and services that meet their unique needs and preferences. Please feel free to contact us for an appointment to discuss your options.

At BR HVAC we are a no bullshit company and we’ve never done rebates because of their stink and poor systems built by our slow government. This time for some reason the system works great and it’s finally a win – win situation. Please feel free to contact us for more information on how we can help you take advantage of this opportunity.

Since BRHVAC is a modern HVAC company, we thought it was fitting to ask Chat GPT to explain the rebates as well!

If you’re interested in upgrading your HVAC system and taking advantage of the Enbridge rebates, be sure to do your research and work with a reputable contractor. Look for a contractor who is licensed, insured, has great Google reviews, and is experienced in installing HVAC systems in your area. Here at Blackrock HVAC we hold a valid TSSA license and for years we’ve been installing only high-quality heating and cooling systems. We provide you with brand name equipment that’s been tested by our team for durability and value. You can also expect high quality installation practices, no gimmicks, solutions, and a great attitude.

BR HVAC won’t be beaten on our precision installation practice.

As a contractor, we fully support the Enbridge rebate program for HVAC upgrades in residential homes. In the past, we’ve seen too many customers miss out on potential savings due to the complicated and convoluted process of applying for rebates. However, with this program, applying and receiving rebates has never been easier. The rebate amounts are significant enough to make a difference for homeowners. We’re proud to be a part of a program that encourages homeowners to make upgrades to their homes, especially when they truly are energy efficient, quieter, and don’t come with gimmicks.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Stay Ahead of Winter Weather with Professional Snowmelting System Maintenance

Stay Ahead of Winter Weather with Professional Snowmelting System Maintenance

If you’re a proud owner of a snowmelting system, you’re already aware of how costly and time-consuming repairs can be. Regular maintenance of your system is essential to keep it running efficiently and reduce repairs. Our professional services in the Toronto area can help you save both time and money by ensuring your system is properly maintained. We’ll take care of checking glycol levels, taking thermal imaging, balancing loop flow, and testing snow sensors to ensure correct performance.

By entrusting us with your snowmelting system’s maintenance, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your investment is being taken care of by experienced professionals. Our team will work to ensure that your system is running smoothly throughout the winter months, so you can enjoy a clear and safe property without the hassle of maintenance. At Blackrock HVAC we want to see you once a year and reduce the likelihood of system repairs.

In addition to the financial benefits of regular maintenance, there are also safety benefits to consider. A snowmelting system that is properly maintained can greatly reduce the risk of slips and falls on your property. As a homeowner, you understand the importance of keeping your loved ones safe, especially during the winter months when the risk of slips and falls is heightened. By investing in the maintenance of your snowmelting system, you can have peace of mind knowing that your property is protected against potential hazards. Our team of professionals is dedicated to ensuring that your system is functioning at its best, so you can focus on enjoying your winter season without worrying about safety concerns.

Don’t wait until it’s too late, contact us today to schedule a maintenance appointment for your snowmelting system. Let us help you save time and money while taking care of your investment!

A DETAILED PHOTO SUMMARY OF OUR MAINTENANCE PROCESS

BOILER HEAT EXCHANGER, BURNER INSPECTION & DRAIN CLEANING

SNOW/ICE SENSOR TESTING AND CONTROLLER SET-UP

HEATING SURFACE THERMAL IMAGING

LOOP FLOW BALANCING & GLYCOL LEVEL TESTING

BOILER COMBUSTION ANALYSIS

Don’t wait, don’t hesitate, book an appointment now before it’s not too late!

READ MORE ABOUT SNOWMELTING:

“A Homeowner’s Guide to NTI Boiler Maintenance”

“How a Ukrainian Entrepreneur is Improving Winter in Toronto”

A Heating Contractor’s Guide to Installing  Warmboard System

A Heating Contractor’s Guide to Installing Warmboard System

Have you heard of Warmboard? It’s a type of radiant heating system used in residential buildings that provides consistent and efficient heat throughout the space. The Warmboard panel is made of high-density plywood with channels for the radiant heating tubing to be installed. Warmboard-S is 1 1/8″ thick, 4×8′ panels, Douglas Fir 7 ply plywood and is used as a structural subfloor. Warmboard-R is 13/16″ thick, OSB, 2×4′ panels, and is commonly used in remodels.

Warmboard is known for its quick response time and efficient heat distribution thanks to the innovative upper aluminum layer. It works by circulating warm water through the tubing to radiate heat upwards into the room. It’s an energy-efficient solution to traditional heating systems, providing comfort and cost savings. The panels can be customized to fit any room layout or size.

On your first day of installation, it’s important to get organized on the job site. After the Warmboard panels have been installed by the framers, the next step is to install the tubing according to the layout provided by Warmboard. This layout is more important for the framers, but as a heating contractor, you should also use it to visualize the predetermined loop layouts and where to make router cuts in the panels (have a few black markers with you). Take the time to review the layout and ensure you understand it before starting the installation. It can be frustrating at first, and you may make some unnecessary cuts, but take them as practice. Organize your tools and materials in a way that’s easy to access, and keep your work area clean and tidy (bring a good vacuum!). This will help you stay focused and efficient while working on the job site. Don’t forget to order some food for dinner because the work can get addicting one you get in the zone and you’ll likely be up late!

Using a pipe uncoiler will make your life easier on every radiant installation by preventing tangles.
Cleaning construction debris from inside the grooves before installing tubing should’nt be taken lightly.
The pipe enters and exits the panel from underneath to create a new heating loop.
Pack yourself a metal file to smoothen out the aluminum after the router cuts. We felt much better installing the tubing this way. Remember, plastic expands when heated!

To make the necessary routes in the Warmboard panels for the tubing, you will need to buy a router (or two). Get yourself a heavy-duty router and a few bits because making all these cuts in the panels takes a serious toll on the tool. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the router is set to the correct depth for the tubing, which is typically 5/8″ for 1/2″ tubing. By using the right router and bit, you can ensure that the tubing routes are precise and accurate, which will lead to a successful installation of your Warmboard system. Remember to have a good heavy weight rubber mallet for installing the tubing into the groove.

We start and end each loop at the manifold, which is located inside a closet wall. We mounted the manifold to a beautifully stained oak plywood, which will add to the visual appeal once the project is complete. To ensure the fitment of the tubing, we used protector plates at bends to hold down any pipe that may stick up, despite our precise cuts. These plates are almost flush with the floor, ensuring a smooth finish. It’s crucial to pressure test the system before leaving the job site to guarantee its stability. Once completed, you’ll have a sturdy Warmboard system that’s ready for your preferred flooring.

We had the pleasure of working with Simpson Properties Contracting Ltd on their modern home project, and we couldn’t be more impressed with the innovative and new products they utilized to create such a beautiful and comfortable home. It’s clear that Simpson Properties pays attention to detail, and this home is a true testament to their commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and accurate scheduling of trades. As their HVAC contractor, we were honored to be a part of the project and bring our expertise to the table. We also had the opportunity to build a custom mechanical room that included a fuel-efficient boiler mounted on a stunning Picasso mural, which will be discussed in another article. Thank you, Simpson Properties, for allowing us to be a part of your project and for your commitment to excellence!

Discover Our Expertise: A Portfolio of Our Condo PM Plans

Discover Our Expertise: A Portfolio of Our Condo PM Plans

As a company that provides HVAC services to condominiums in the Greater Toronto Area, we understand the importance of regular maintenance to ensure the safety and comfort of residents. That’s why we offer monthly visits to condominium properties to inspect and maintain all HVAC equipment, including boilers, chillers, cooling towers, and more. With our services, you can comply with condominium by-laws and regulations, while also protecting your investment and the well-being of your residents. Our experienced technicians use the latest tools and techniques to keep your systems running efficiently and prevent breakdowns, so you can rest assured that your property is in good hands.

Curious to know if your current HVAC service provider is meeting your needs? Get a second opinion and a detailed report from our team of G1 gas technicians. They’ll thoroughly inspect your equipment and provide you with a comprehensive evaluation of its condition and performance. If you’re satisfied with our report, we can create a custom proposal for scheduled maintenance that fits your budget and requirements. Don’t wait until it’s too late, contact us today to schedule your second opinion and take the first step towards ensuring the safety and comfort of your residents!

At Blackrock HVAC, we specialize in providing top-quality maintenance and repair services for a wide range of HVAC equipment in condominium across the GTA.

  • Boilers
  • System Pumps
  • Cooling Towers / Chillers
  • Make Up Air Units
  • Domestic Hot Water
  • Exhaust Fans
  • Ductless Air Conditioners
  • Heat Pumps

Take a look at some of the HVAC equipment we’ve serviced in the past, with our own collection of photographs showcasing our expertise and commitment to excellence.

DHW mixing stations, both traditional and digital mixing valves.
Booster pump service, sometimes you need to take things apart and see what’s wrong!
Boiler pump inspection showing signs of the bearing seal leaking. Fix it before it’s too late! This is what happens when decisions from management and The Board take too long, DHW out of service!
MUA units work 24-7 and need lots of attention all year round. These need cleanings and sometimes replacements.
Too often maintenance companies don’t want to get in there and get dirty. Power washing MUA coils is the most effective spring cleaning you can do!
Measure amperage readings to get an idea of electrical components. Keeping the electrical panels are important when up-keeping equipment.
Major failure and internal fire is what can happen when maintenance is not performed well. Why did this heat exchanger catch fire? Now the building is in for a replacement and the indoor temperature humidity levels will create complaints to your office and email!

Keeping our neighbourhood clean is important to us.

  1. Our technicians are trained to work efficiently and minimize disruption to your property, so you can enjoy a clean and well-maintained environment! Our HVAC chats using WhatsApp gives your management a real-life conversation with the entire squad on your side.
  2. Trust in our expertise – we have years of experience in the HVAC industry and a proven track record of delivering high-quality services to our clients. You can trust us to provide you with reliable and efficient service that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.
  3. We invest heavily in maintaining our vehicles to ensure they are safe, well-equipped, and don’t break down on your property, or embarrass yourself because this thing drips oil every time he parks here! This helps us provide you with the best possible service and maintain the safety of your property and less phone calls.
These territory limits indicate where we can best serve you as a preventative maintenance customer.

If you’re a mechanically inclined individual in a position of power with a corporate budget, you understand the importance of quality, expertise, and reliability in your HVAC service provider. At Blackrock HVAC we have years of individual as well as many combined experience years. We hold a valid TSSA certificate for fuels safety, WSIB clearances, UPONOR, Mitsubishi, and multitudes of other trainings our techs can tell you about! Let’s work together to keep your property running smoothly and efficiently.

WHY WORK WITH BRHVAC?

At Blackrock HVAC, we are a small HVAC Contractor based in the GTA led by Orest Omeliukh. Our company name was inspired by George Black, the creator of BR, who encouraged his team to strive for excellence in their work. We carry on this tradition today with our team of dedicated HVAC professionals who are committed to providing the highest quality service to our clients. We understand that managing a property can be tough, and we know how stressful it can be when things don’t go as planned. That’s why we’re here to make things easier for you. Whether you need a quick fix or a more complex installation, we have the expertise and experience to get the job done right. Sometimes it takes just one of us to solve a problem, and sometimes we need to assemble a team of specialists who are skilled in their craft. Whatever the case may be, we’re here to work with you and help keep your property running smoothly. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you.”

Planning Your Gypsum Overpour Radiant Floor Heating Installation

Planning Your Gypsum Overpour Radiant Floor Heating Installation

This article will focus on a Gypsum Overpour application when installing a radiant heating system. All the pictures and videos used here are our own from a project for Will Gonell, with tubing and manifolds installed by Blackrock HVAC, and the overpour installed by Mack Constructions Inc.

WHAT IS GYPSUM OVERPOUR?

Many Toronto homes like this one are removing old cast iron radiators and creating more room by installing/hiding the heat source into the floor. In the case of new construction, the gypsum overpour is already calculated into ceiling heights. Gypsum overpouring can be a cost-effective and efficient way to create a smooth, level surface for finished flooring, especially in situations where the subfloor is uneven. However, it is important to ensure that the subfloor is structurally sound by consulting with your structural engineer, and free of any moisture issues before applying the overpour.

The overpour is usually around 1 1/2 inch thick, and it can be used with a variety of finished flooring materials, including carpet, vinyl, wood, or tile. The gypsum material used is a self-leveling light-weight compound that is mixed and poured onto the prepared subfloor. The gypsum compound is typically fast-setting and can be walked on within 24 hours after application, allowing you to quickly get back to construction.

WHAT ABOUT THE HEATING PIPES?

Before beginning the overpour there’s work to do. Your framer, heating contractor, and gypsum team need to be on the same page. The framer should be installing double bottom plates for all the walls to accommodate for the 1.5″ of gypsum. This allows a 2×4 to still be there for drywall and baseboard installation. Just before our team were scheduled to install the tubing, the team at Mack Constructions Inc did a fantastic job prepping the floor with a plastic sheet and a foam perimeter so the self-leveling compound stays within the area and doesn’t escape through all sorts of cracks. Your heating contractor then needs to install the loops using staples or PEX clips and not leave the site until it’s all pressure tested.

The advantage of using the staple-down method is that it provides a secure and reliable method of installing the radiant heating piping. The staples hold the pipes in place during the pouring of the gypsum overpour, ensuring that the pipes do not shift or move. A common newbie mistake is to not use enough staples. This creates a tripping hazard AND the piping will actually lift and float on top of the overpour causing a headache and panic.

In some areas where there’s a large difference in floor height, styrofoam can be installed to help remedy the problem.

The staple-down method is a common way to install radiant heating piping before pouring gypsum over the top. In this method, the radiant heating pipes are stapled to the subfloor to hold the pipes in place. The radiant heating piping is typically installed in a serpentine pattern, but at Blackrock HVAC we do it better and try to always install them in a reverse-return pattern. Once the pipes are in place, a pressure test is always performed to ensure that the system is free of leaks, and to sound an alarm incase the tubing gets accidentally punctured during the overpour process.

It’s important to note that the use of a plastic slip sheet is not always necessary. On occasion, you will pour on a plastic slip sheet and/or styrofoam insulation, but more often, you’ll pour “bonded,” where a primer is supplied and installed to the existing floor just prior to the pour to enhance the bond between the gypsum concrete and existing structural substrate. The primer also helps to decrease moisture penetration in the existing subfloor. Ultimately, the choice of whether to use a slip sheet or bonded method depends on the specific jobsite conditions and other factors that may be present.

WHAT TO DO IN THE BATHROOMS?

Typically bathrooms take up very little square footage and they don’t require their own heating loop unless it’s a large ensuite. In this project, we ran a bedroom loop inside the one of the smaller bathrooms where your feet would be, and a separate loop for the ensuite. You can skip installing pipes under the vanity since it won’t have a noticeable effect. Wether or not to install it under the shower needs to be discussed with the builder. It depends on their plan for the shower floor, here we skipped both showers.

THE MANIFOLD LOCATIONS

The use of a water manifold allows for precise control of the flow of water to each individual loop of tubing in the radiant heating system. This allows for greater flexibility in controlling the heat output of the system and can help to improve overall efficiency. It is important to ensure that the water manifold is installed correctly and that all connections are properly tightened and secured. That’s all obvious. What isn’t obvious to some are how and where to install them!

  1. Consider hiding the manifold and tubing connections inside a closet to optimize space. Since your mechanical room is likely already crowded with equipment and located far from the upstairs manifold, installing a separate 3/4″ supply and return from the mechanical room can save over 100 feet of 1/2″ tubing. Ideally, have your framer construct one closet wall using 2×6 lumber.
  2. To prevent hot spots near the manifold, it is important to insulate the tubing in the vicinity. While your furry friend may enjoy the warmth, it may not be comfortable for the human occupants of the room. To ensure proper insulation, extend it a few feet away from the manifold and organize the pipes neatly.
  3. Embrace the opportunity to add style to even the most hidden parts of your project! At Blackrock, we believe that attention to detail is key, even when it comes to the interior of a closet wall. In this project, we took a creative approach by painting the plywood black and installing perforated aluminum sheets behind each manifold. The result is a visually stunning effect that adds a touch of sophistication to the home, even in areas that are typically overlooked.
A smaller 3 Loop Uponor manifold installed upstairs inside a bedroom closet.
Too often installers forget to install a slab sensor and the homeowner needs to live with a system that offers them less comfort than it can with a sensor and matching thermostat.

TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL PROJECT

As a company that specializes in installing overpour, Mack Constructions Inc offers their clients essential prep work to ensure a successful project. They provide and install the floor primer and discuss the predetermined heights for features such as staircases, windows, fireplaces, and door heights with the client to avoid confusion. Mack Constructions requests to seal all gaps and holes, which is outlined in their quotes and discussed with the client. However, their team will still ensure that it is done sufficiently to their standards to prevent any leaks to the floor below. During the actual pour, their team checks that the correct mix ratio of sand, gypsum product, and water is used to achieve a consistent and strong mix throughout the entire job. Their goal is to provide a smooth floor surface for every client!

At Blackrock HVAC, we believe that working with other companies that have a proven track record of successful projects makes all the difference when it comes to hiring us. With our experience and expertise, we can easily collaborate and work with other teams towards a common goal!

By installing heating manifolds inside of closets you can save lots of room inside the mechanical room.
“As an experienced installer of radiant floor heating systems, I know that proper installation and attention to detail are critical to the success of any project. That’s why I am committed to working closely with contractors and home builders to ensure that every installation is completed to the highest standards of quality and efficiency. If you’re looking to enhance the comfort and value of your projects with a reliable and energy-efficient heating solution, look no further than radiant floor heating. Contact me today to learn more about how we can work together to bring the benefits of radiant heating to your next project.” Orest Omeliukh
Keep Your Ductless System in Top Shape: A Guide to Maintenance.

Keep Your Ductless System in Top Shape: A Guide to Maintenance.

Three Steps to Maintaining Ductless Mini Splits in the GTA.

  1. Clean or replace air filters. Easily the most important routine step that few actually do. It’s shocking how many people don’t do this. You can also visit the outdoor unit and look around it. Spot dirty spots, dusty coil, or growing weeds or bushes. Keep it clean down there.
  2. Don’t wait until your system breaks down! Schedule regular maintenance with a technician to catch up, give them a bottle of your new wine, and have them spot and potential issues.
  3. With high season in the Greater Toronto Area being June – September, it’s crucial to schedule your maintenance between April and June. Anytime after that you’ll be hunting and paying higher prices for your service visit.
While it’s important to encourage proper maintenance and raise awareness about the consequences of neglecting HVAC systems, it’s also important to approach the topic in a way that is respectful and constructive. Rather than poking fun at those who don’t maintain their equipment, it may be more effective use those photos and videos as educational content. Remind others about regular maintenance and the potential consequences of neglecting it.” Orest Omeliukh

Evaporator: The Indoor Unit

Very dirty filters found inside an evaporator.

As a condominium property manager or a warehouse maintenance manager in the Toronto area, ensuring the proper heating & cooling is critical for occupant comfort and boss satisfaction. Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to expensive repairs or system replacements real quick, resulting in uncomfortable conditions, potential legal liability, and awkward boardroom conversations. By scheduling ahead using our booking app below, be on top of your deadlines.

Commercial units get bad much quicker so pay attention. Too often they are installed in elevator rooms where the air is dirty and the coils get plugged on the evaporator. This requires a disassembly and a light jet cleaning.

Condenser: The Outdoor Unit

Dirt, leaves, and other debris accumulates on the condenser fins, which reduces airflow and often leads to poor cooling. It’s important to regularly clean the unit, either by hosing it down or using a soft-bristle brush to remove debris. Also, decide at what frequency you want to schedule your maintenances. The technician can perform checks that your tools can’t, like testing the refrigerant levels, and inspect the compressor and capacitor to make sure everything is in good working order. At Blackrock HVAC our goal is to perform a maintenance so good that we barely see you for service calls!

A very dirty condenser coil after only two summer seasons!
This video shows how a thick layer of dust can create serious AC problems and drainage issues.

Our Experience

At our company, we pride ourselves on being experts in ductless systems. Our team has traveled around the world to places like Japan, India, and Costa Rica, where ductless systems are a common and preferred form of heating and cooling. Not only have we seen them in action in these countries, but we’ve also installed them in our own homes and for countless satisfied customers. So when it comes to ductless systems, you can trust that we have the knowledge and experience to answer your questions and deliver on expectations. Book an appointment for your ductless system using our booking app.

Work Vans Don’t Need To Be Creepy.

Work Vans Don’t Need To Be Creepy.

We Love Our Vans

 

The ability to carry tools and parts inside of our vehicles increases the confidence of our team and improves the chances of getting things done. Speaking for many trades: electrician, painter, carpenter, builder, etc, they maintain a lifestyle of self-reliance and express it through tools, including vehicles. This article begins with a short story, followed by pictures of our Transit XLT and ends with a video filmed somewhere in Ontario.

Blackrock Transit Connect

Blackrock HVAC

Shelving, partition wall, roof rack, winter tires, and a back-up camera will make you safe on the road but won’t fix the situation you’ve been sent out to diagnose. “The days of seeing a plumber with his ass crack showing are over”, says Will Gonell of Gonell Homes. Meaning, if you want to be involved with modern construction, you need to be up to date and carry everything you might need that day. Clients have expected professionalism since forever, lets deliver on this.  

Blackrock HVAC

Blackrock HVAC Ltd

At Blackrock HVAC we accept this reality so we work on improving the comfort, fun, and functionality of our vans. Our company culture has lots to do with automobiles and engines. If your van or truck is a tool for business then taking care of it is money well spent. Don’t be that guy who drives a creepy rusty old van around town scaring women and children, we’re professionals by trade.

Blackrock Transit

Blackrock Transit Connect

The End

 

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