As energy prices rise and environmental issues take centre stage, energy efficiency retrofits are becoming a must for older homes and multi-unit residential buildings. These are more than just upgrades—when scaled across multiple properties, they become a crucial step toward a sustainable future.
1Click Heating & Cooling is leading the charge on energy efficiency projects within the multi-family housing sector, which represents a huge opportunity for energy savings and carbon reductions. One such example is Gloucester Housing’s retrofit project, where 1Click is completing deep energy retrofits and making a big impact.
What are Deep Energy Retrofits?
A deep energy retrofit is any upgrade that yields at least 50% energy savings and an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Deep energy retrofits largely focus on upgrading to more efficient mechanical systems, implementing renewable sources of energy, and improving the building envelope.
Why Does Energy Efficiency Matter?
Canada’s older homes, built without modern efficiency in mind, are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. They’re also expensive to heat and cool. Deep energy retrofits fix this by introducing energy efficiency measures, which cut energy use and lower bills.
About the Gloucester Housing Project
The project focuses on introducing energy efficiency solutions to a community housing property in Gloucester’s Carver Place neighbourhood, just east of Ottawa, Ontario. The project is part of the Retrofit Accelerator program led by EnviroCentre. The goal? To reduce energy use by 50% and cut greenhouse gas emissions by 80%. 1Click is helping to make this happen by:
- Installing hybrid air-source heat pumps that provide efficient heating and cooling.
- Replacing gas water heaters with hybrid electric heat pump versions to save energy.
- Adding heat recovery ventilation (HRV) systems to boost air quality while reducing energy waste.
In addition to the upgrades being completed by 1Click, the project also includes improving insulation and air sealing to keep the homes more comfortable while cutting energy loss.
To learn more about the project, read our press release.
What are the Benefits?
These upgrades are projected to cut 153 tonnes of CO2 annually and save over 2,000 gigajoules of energy. Residents will also see lower utility bills, better air quality, and year-round comfort.
How Will Heat Pumps Improve Energy Efficiency?
Hybrid air-source heat pumps are a standout feature of this retrofit. Air-source heat pumps are highly efficient, generating three to four units of heat for every unit of energy they use. This makes them much more efficient and environmentally friendly than traditional systems. Heat pumps also heat in winter and cool in summer, providing reliable home comfort all year round.
What is 1Click Heating & Cooling’s Role in this Project?
1Click is all about making the transition to eco-friendly solutions simple. We help homeowners switch to energy efficient systems by managing everything from rebates to installations, making the process as smooth as possible. We apply this same approach to our clients who manage multi-family properties, whether they’re for-profit property managers or social housing providers.
When it comes to the Gloucester Housing project, 1Click Heating & Cooling is the mechanical contractor responsible for installing the heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and HRV systems.
Looking Ahead
The Gloucester Housing project shows how deep energy retrofits can transform homes and communities. 1Click Heating & Cooling is committed to expanding these efforts across Canada, proving that energy efficiency is the key to a sustainable, low-carbon future.
