Retrofitting Community Space

Thanks to a recently completed project, the 150-year-old Harmony Centre is now better equipped to serve the Owen Sound community for generations to come. With new energy-efficient windows, modern heat pumps, and vital electrical upgrades, this beloved cultural space is more sustainable, comfortable, and ready to support local events, programs, and gatherings well into the future.

Thanks to funding from the Canada Community Revitalization Fund, Ontario Trillium Foundation, and local donations, the former church-turned-community-venue is now warmer, healthier, and more financially sustainable.

According to Harmony Centre Vice Chair Barry Randall, the project has resulted in significant energy efficiencies that have reduced the building’s carbon footprint and improved indoor air quality. But of equal importance, the project has ensured the long-term viability of the facility. “Now we are free to deliver programming and focus on the needs of our community users – rather than struggling to pay our heating bills.”

The Harmony Centre’s HVAC overhaul was a large undertaking that replaced the old boiler and radiator system with 13 individually controlled high-efficiency ductless heat pumps. According to project engineer Jeff Graham, the results are well worth the effort. “Historically, the Harmony Centre used approximately 26,000 cubic meters of natural gas per year to heat the building,” says Graham. “By installing the heat pump system and eliminating use of natural gas, the Harmony Centre has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 50 metric tonnes per year.”

• If your furnace or boiler is reaching its end of life, contact a local HVAC professional to see if a heat pump is right for you. Learn more about how to make your home more energy efficient and funding opportunities.
• Is there a community building you use that could benefit from a more efficient HVAC system? Talk to the building manager or owner and see if an HVAC professional could take a closer look.