What is a F280-12 Heat Loss report

The F280-12 Heat Loss report is a calculation method standardized by CSA, used to evaluate heat loss and gain in residential buildings. According to the 2024 BC Building Code regulations, (Part 9.33.3.1), a compliant Heat Loss report is necessary for the proper sizing of heating and cooling systems to enhance energy efficiency. Additionally, it is required by BC Hydro and Fortis for Heat Pump rebates after May 1, 2025.

Does a Homeowner Need a F280 Heat Loss Report for BC Rebates?

Starting May 1, 2025, BC Hydro and Fortis will require a F280 Heat Loss report for the $4000 rebates on cold climate rated Heat Pumps and dual-fuel HP/Gas furnaces if the home exceeds 1200 sq.ft. and must meet at least 80% of the loads. This requirement will not be applicable for the Partial Home Heating rebate of $1500, or the CleanBC Energy Savings (income qualified) programs until October. The homeowner should directly order the Heat Loss from an Energy Advisor, and then request 3 bids for the right-sized package from HVAC companies, to avoid each bidder from the time and cost of producing a report.

When Does a BC Home Builder need a F280-12 Heat Loss & Gain Report?

In British Columbia, all new Part-9 home constructions must have a CSA F280-12 Heat Loss and Heat Gain report to secure a building permit. A new regulation under the 2024 Code 9.33.5.1.(1) mandates that at least one air-conditioned room must maintain a temperature of 26C or lower during a heat dome event, which reached over 40C in 2021. Inspectors require the F280 Heat Loss & Gain report for permit approvals. Consequently, the Energy Advisor must be F280 certified, incorporate a central, ducted, or ductless Heat Pump rather than a window A/C unit, and provide a copy along with the Step Code compliance report.

Fortis Dual Fuel Rebate – offers $16,300 to the Builder.

A generous incentive for a Cold-Climate Heat Pump as the Primary heating component, connected to a natural gas furnace as the secondary source that is switched on below 5C in a Step-4 new home.

Which F280-12 Heat Loss Calculators are Compliant?

TECA, HRAI, and Heat-CAD are the popular calculators certified by HVACdc.ca to meet CSA-F280-12. Look for the HVACdc checkmark. Important: NRCan’s HOT2000 used for the EnerGuide Greener Homes is not accepted as F280 compliant. Link to the Certified F280-12 table at HVAC-DC.ca

What Is the Cost for a F280 Heat Loss Report in BC?

A recent BC survey shows $400-600 is the cost range depending on the size of the home, and if a scale floor plan needs to be created. Airtight offers a $200 discount if we have done a HOT2000 energy modelling for the Greener Homes program, or for new construction BC Energy Step Code because we have most of the data to calculate a F280-12 Heat Loss report. The net fee is currently $200 in most existing BC heat pump rebate applications. Airtight Energy will complete F280-12 Calculations for Heat Pump Companies on request, and directly with Homeowners.

What Software Is F280-12 Certified?

The two main Certified F280-12 software’s are from TECA and Volta Snap, both in BC and used by Airtight Energy Advisors.

What Is Heat Pump Sizing as a Service?

The benefits of correctly sizing the Heating and Cooling loads is to best select the appropriate sized equipment. Home comfort is highest when the heating and cooling loads are calculated using proven building science. The sizing cannot be done in other way, there are no Rule-of-Thumb or formulas based on area that come close. Airtight Energy routinely sees heat pumps grossly oversized by double and triple the actual requirements. Wrong-sized units will not perform well, last very long, or save any energy compared to optimized, right-sized equipment.

Get Answers for Your Home

Call Bruce:  250-740-5791 or email: bgray@energyadvisor.pro to discuss your needs.