Client: Relais de la Pointe aux Écureuils
Building: Former church built in 1926–1927
Location: Donnacona, Québec, Canada
Heated area: Approximately 20,000 sq. ft.
Heating system prior to the project: Two oil boilers supplying hot water to a central system with cast iron radiators
Number of radiators in operation: 32 radiators
The Project
Facing clear signs of wear and aging in its old oil fired hot water system, the Relais de la Pointe aux Écureuils sought a modern, efficient solution that would preserve the building’s heritage character. Ecorad quickly emerged as the ideal choice, thanks to its innovative approach, high efficiency and commitment to respecting architectural heritage.
Project Execution
The Ecorad team worked closely with onsite staff to coordinate the removal of the existing radiators. The radiators were then fully restored and converted into autonomous electrified units. Once refurbished, they were reinstalled and the electrician completed the wiring, thermostat installation and final connections.
Ecorad also provided all required documentation, including energy saving calculations, to support the client’s grant application. Throughout the project, the team played an active role in facilitating communication among all stakeholders.
Despite a delay in the electrical connection caused by Hydro-Québec, Ecorad implemented temporary solutions to maintain occupant comfort. This included using a secondary electrical service and creating provisional radiator connections. Ecorad also assisted the Relais in its communications with Hydro-Québec, contributing to an accelerated resolution.
Benefits / Results
| Category | Result |
| Cost savings | 56% reduction in annual heating costs |
| Comfort | Pleasant and steady heat thanks to the preserved radiators |
| Maintenance | Maintenance free system |
| Heritage | Preservation and enhancement of original equipment |
| Environment | Removal of oil tanks from the building |
| Grants | Access to financial support for the electric conversion |
“The project was a success on all fronts. The Ecorad team is skilled, attentive, and always available for follow-ups. They were very proactive in helping us navigate communications with Hydro-Québec. We are proud of this improvement, both technically and environmentally.”
— Marc Duval, Project Manager
Why Choose Ecorad?
- Recognized expertise
- Clear communication
- Respect for architectural heritage
- Proven efficiency
Want to learn more about how this project was realized? Continue reading the Technical Section for deeper information.
TECHNICAL SECTION
Replacing an oil based heating system in a heritage building like the Relais de la Pointe aux Écureuils requires a rigorous, safe and heritage sensitive approach. Ecorad implemented a multi step procedure combining technical expertise with ecological principles.
Our objectives were clear:
– Eliminate fossil fuels
– Reuse existing radiators
– Provide consistent thermal comfort
– Reduce operating costs
– Preserve the building’s historical aesthetics
How the Project Was Carried Out
Preliminary Analysis
- Onsite visit and inventory of existing radiators
- Compilation of oil heating invoices
- Calculation of potential savings through Ecorad technology
Recommendation and Proposal
- Presentation of recommendations, options and a detailed proposal
Planning
- Coordination of a detailed schedule between all parties
Start of Work
- Financial assistance request submitted to the Eco-performance program
- Disconnection of radiators and draining of the central system
- Transport to the Ecorad factory for restoration and electrification
- Return of restored radiators
Installation
- Electrical wiring, thermostat installation and final connection completed by the electrician
Project Close-Out
- System calibration and full commissioning
Radiator Restoration Process
Ecorad uses a unique restoration procedure, developed and refined over more than 15 years, widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive in the industry:
- PAINT REMOVAL
Each radiator undergoes grit blasting to remove all layers of paint. This process creates a clean, uniform surface while maintaining the texture needed for proper coating adhesion. Grit blasting is safer, more ecological and less damaging to the patina than abrasive sandblasting.
Residues from old lead based paints are disposed of according to environmental standards.
- DISASSEMBLY
Radiators are fully disassembled into individual sections to allow deep internal and external cleaning. Worn nipple connectors are removed.
- INTERNAL CLEANING
Each section is pressure washed internally to remove sludge and debris.
- REASSEMBLY
The radiators are carefully reassembled section by section using new nipple connectors and fiber gaskets.
- LEAK TESTING
Tests are performed using air pressure in a hot solution to validate metal expansion and prepare the unit for painting.
- ELECTRICAL CONVERSION
Radiators are filled with a precise mixture of water and antifreeze. An electric heating element is inserted and the unit is permanently sealed. Electrical connections are installed and the radiator is tested per UL standards.
- PAINTING
Radiators are heated prior to painting to maximize adhesion. An industrial grade acrylic enamel is sprayed on ensuring durable protection.
- FINAL INSPECTION & PACKAGING
Each radiator is inspected after leaving the paint booth and individually packaged.
Video of the restoration process
Integration of Heating Elements
Ecorad’s electrical conversion of heritage cast-iron radiators is a key innovation. It transforms these units into efficient, intelligent, autonomous heating appliances without compromising their visual or historical value.
The electrical conversion follows these principles:
- Insertion of the heating element into the base of the restored radiator
- Filling with a water/antifreeze mix to ensure even heat distribution
- Hermetic sealing for safety and durability
- Safety mechanisms to prevent overheating
- UL compliance testing
Installation of Smart Thermostats
The addition of smart thermostats or sensors in each zone is essential for proper energy management. Combined with Ecorad’s electrified radiators, these devices deliver precise, autonomous, connected temperature control optimizing both occupant comfort and energy performance.
For this project, the team chose Sinopé thermostats and Cristal control panels to maximize flexibility and performance.
Features and Operation
- Zoned control: Each area is equipped with a smart wall thermostat
- Web connectivity: Sinopé thermostats are Wi-Fi and smart home compatible
- Programming & load shedding: Power demand management with load rotation to prevent surges
Calibration and Commissioning
The final Ecorad step involves fine calibration and complete commissioning to ensure optimal, safe and energy efficient performance.
One major challenge was the delay in electrical connection by Hydro-Québec, which directly impacted commissioning.
To resolve the issue:
- A temporary connection using a secondary 240 volt service was installed to power radiators equipped with 347volt elements
- Although not connected to smart thermostats, this temporary system provided minimal heat in critical rooms
Occupant comfort was preserved despite the technical constraints.
Benefits for Building Professionals
- Preservation of building integrity; durable, aesthetic solution
- High performance system compliant with energy efficiency standards
- Reduced operating costs; simplified maintenance
- Safe installation; elimination of mechanical failure risks
- Strong project support; clear communication with all stakeholders
- Proven methods, rigorous testing and compliance with standards
- Enhanced project value through a sustainable, heritage focused approach
Performance. Aesthetics. Durability.
Ecorad transforms century old radiators into smart, autonomous, high-performance heating units. Every step blends heritage preservation with innovation.
This project demonstrates that energy modernization and heritage conservation can go hand in hand. That is the Ecorad expertise.
Optimization of Heating Costs
The client can further maximize savings by participating in Hydro-Québec’s Demand Management Program.
Total Savings Calculation Including Ecorad Specific Efficiency Measures
| Type of savings | % | *Additional potential |
| Savings from replacing oil with electricity + Ecorad demand control | 45.8% | — |
| Savings from other Ecorad efficiency measures | 9.5% | — |
| Maintenance cost savings | 2.9% | — |
| Savings from participating in Hydro-Québec’s GDP Program | 0.0% | 11.0% |
| Total annual savings | 56.6% | 67.6% |
*Additional savings are estimated based on comparable projects.
