Common Questions

Dive into our FAQs to find quick answers to common questions about our retrofit services and how they can benefit you. If there’s something more you’d like to know, we’re just a message away.

Getting Started
What is an energy retrofit?

Energy retrofits involve upgrading a building to reduce its energy use and transition it to cleaner sources of energy. A package of energy retrofits that aim to achieve substantial reductions in energy use is referred to as a deep energy retrofit.

As society transitions to cleaner sources of energy through what’s called the energy transition, all buildings will need energy retrofits to varying degrees. If your building
experiences high energy bills, uneven temperatures, drafts, and poor indoor air
quality, energy retrofits may be even more beneficial.

An initial consultation typically involves assessing your current energy use and condition of your housing to determine the retrofit strategy.

Absolutely, retrofits are tailored to the unique needs and characteristics of your housing.

Retrofitting Process
How long does a typical retrofit take?

The duration varies based on the size and complexity of the project but is typically discussed during your consultation.

We aim to minimize disruption by performing retrofits when the building or unit is vacant. This would typically occur when the building or unit is “turning over”, that is, when there is a change in occupancy. If work needs to occur in or around the presence of occupants, we ensure work is performed safety, efficiently, and often in
stages to accommodate occupants. 

Technology is a key enabler of deep energy retrofits. We use a range of advanced technologies to improve the efficiency of the building envelope and mechanical systems. Examples include cold climate air source heat pumps, Aeroseal, and smart controls.

We adhere to strict quality control standards and use certified materials and methods throughout the retrofit process.

Post-Retrofit
How will I know if the retrofit is successful?

Success is determined in several ways. You post-retrofit energy usage, once adjusted for weather and occupancy, provides a quantifiable indicator. Lower energy bills and a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment would be important factors to
consider from a tenant perspective. And fewer tenant complaints and lower maintenance costs from a property management perspective.

Yes, we conduct a post-retrofit review to compare results against initial expectations, receive feedback and address any questions.

We provide maintenance guidelines and tips to help you keep your building running at peak efficiency.

Typically, yes. Enhanced energy efficiency and comfort are attractive features that can contribute to higher property values.

There are often financing programs and incentives available; we can guide you through your options during our consultation.

Gord Cooke

Advisor to Trim Tab - President, Building Knowledge Canada

There are few professionals in Ontario that can match Gord Cooke’s broad knowledge of the inner workings of a house. Highly regarded in the Ontario homebuilding industry, Gord is a professional engineer, trainer, author, and industry consultant. For over 35 years, Gord has helped builders and HVAC contractors implement innovative technologies and build better homes. He is an effective and passionate educator and advocate for better building practices, improved indoor air quality, and energy efficiency. Most recently, Gord was awarded one of just five “hall of fame” 2022 Clean50 Lifetime Achievement Awards.

Roger Grochmal

Advisor to Trim Tab - Retired CEO, AtlasCare

Roger Grochmal is a professional engineer and seasoned business leader in the HVAC contracting industry. He is the retired CEO and owner of AtlasCare and is a life member of both ASHRAE and HRAI. He is the recipient of HRAI’s Merit Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the development and progress of the Institute and the Canadian HVACR industry. He currently sits on the Board of Governors of George Brown College working to develop the next generation of business leaders. 

Tom Grochmal

CEO/Founder of Trim Tab

Tom is a professional engineer who grew up in a family that ran a heating and cooling business serving homeowners for over 30 years. Tom branched out and made a career in the utility sector, responsible for the design and delivery of energy efficiency programs for homes and businesses with his work for Enbridge Gas. Tom believes in the power of energy efficiency to affect positive change and wants to show his three children a better future.