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Switch the 'Stat is a thermostat replacement and collection program delivered in partnership with heating and cooling contractors and wholesalers across Ontario. The goal of the program is to encourage the uptake of more energy efficient programmable thermostats and to provide a safe and responsible disposal option for older mercury-containing thermostats. How to Participate
- Contact a Participating Contractor
The Clean Air Foundation works with approximately 1000 Heating and Cooling contractors to deliver the Switch the 'Stat program across Ontario.
- Switch to a new programmable thermostat
Financial incentives and rebates for switching to programmable thermostats are available year-round for home and business owners. The Ontario Power Authority is offering a $25 rebate off the purchase and installation of a programmable thermostat through the Cool Savings Rebate Program until December 31, 2008 (check out www.coolsavingsrebate.com for more information). In addition, Enbridge Gas Distribution and Union Gas both offer a $15 on-bill credit for the installation of any programmable thermostat (check out the Enbridge rebate Web page and Union Gas rebate Web page for more information). Newer programmable thermostats can cost between $70 and $300. However, there is no cost to consumers and contractors for the collection, transportation, and safe disposal of the older mercury-containing thermostats.
- Give your old mercury-containing thermostat to your contractor for responsible disposal
If you choose to replace your thermostat on your own, you can still contact any Participating Wholesaler or Participating Contractor in your area to drop off your mercury-containing thermostat.
Background
The rapid increase in programmable thermostat installations for residential energy savings has meant that an increased number of older mercury-containing thermostats are being disposed of in household waste and ending up in landfills. An older thermostat can contain approximately 2.5-10 grams of mercury, and it only takes one gram of mercury to contaminate an eight-hectare lake to the point where the fish in that lake are not edible for a full year. Mercury is especially toxic to young children and women of child-bearing age because it can inhibit the development of the brain and nervous system.
The Clean Air Foundation is proud to be working with the Heating Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI), approximately 1000 contractors and wholesalers, Aevitas, and Purolator to deliver the Switch the ‘Stat program. The program is supported by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, the Ontario Power Authority, Union Gas Limited, Enbridge Gas Distribution and Imperial Oil Foundation.
Do you have questions about the Switch the ‘Stat Program? Please see our Frequently Asked Questions section.
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