How it works
Nanaimo's offer skips the buy-then-claim model entirely — BC Hydro mails the thermostat free to homes that qualify. It's targeted at electric baseboard heat, where scheduling has the biggest effect on the bill.
No purchase price, no receipt to submit — the thermostat ships once you're approved.
The offer targets baseboard-heated homes specifically, where scheduling has the biggest impact on the bill.
Who qualifies
- You own or rent a home in Nanaimo that currently heats with electric baseboards
- Your unit doesn't already have a compatible smart thermostat installed
- You're a BC Hydro account holder at the service address
What it doesn't cover
If your Nanaimo home runs on gas, oil, or a heat pump, this specific offer isn't available — a smart thermostat there is a retail purchase that still pays off through scheduling. Renters on baseboard heat typically don't need landlord sign-off.
How to claim it
- Check that your Nanaimo home heats with electric baseboards, then see everything you qualify for with the free rebate assessment
- Sign up through BC Hydro's electric baseboard thermostat offer
- Install the thermostat yourself, or have your HVAC contractor set it up during another visit
- Set your schedule — lower temperatures overnight and while you're out are where the real savings come from
Find an installer in Nanaimo
If you're pairing the thermostat with other HVAC work, browse HVAC contractors serving Nanaimo in our installer directory.
Common questions
How do I get a free smart thermostat in Nanaimo?
BC Hydro's electric baseboard program covers a free smart thermostat for eligible Nanaimo homes, as long as your home currently heats with electric baseboards. BC Hydro ships the thermostat directly once you sign up through their electric baseboard offer — there's no purchase or mail-in receipt required.
Does the Nanaimo smart thermostat offer work if I heat with gas or a heat pump?
No. This particular free-thermostat offer is tied to electric baseboard heating specifically. If you're on gas, oil, or already have a heat pump, a smart thermostat still helps with scheduling and setbacks, but you'd buy one at retail rather than through this program.
Other rebates in Nanaimo
Next steps
View all Nanaimo rebate programs → or check BC Hydro's official site → for the current source of truth.