There are so many benefits to upgrading to clean, efficient electric appliances that it’d be great if we could do them all at once. Budget and time constraints, of course, make this unrealistic. 

Instead, we recommend people make a plan for their home. 

Know the age of your appliances

Start by figuring out the age of the appliances in your home. Here is how long you can expect each appliance to last:

Take note of when appliances will need to be replaced and make a plan for those getting close to their end of life.

Energy efficiency first, then electrification

When it comes to space heating and cooling upgrades, you’ll want to make sure that your home is energy efficient first. Insulation, proper air and duct sealing, good quality windows and doors can go a long way in making your home more efficient.

If your home is drafty, has hot or cold spots, or any moisture issues, fix these first before electrifying your heating and cooling.

Maximizing rebates & tax incentives

There are lots of rebates and tax incentives available, some are available for a short time, others are available for the next 10 years and can be used every year. 

Seeing what you’re eligible for and then making a plan to maximize the dollars available to you can help bring the upfront costs of the projects down significantly. 

Optimizing for what’s important

Your own personal goals and needs should play a role in determining the sequence of your plan. For example, if you’re most concerned about air quality, you’ll want to upgrade your gas stove first. If you’re most interested in saving money, you might choose to get an EV or rooftop solar first. And if you’re looking to make your home more comfortable, you might start with weatherization and a heat pump.