Heat-pump rebates in California (2026)
What's actually available in California for a heat pump or mini-split — the federal HEAR (Home Electrification & Appliance Rebates) program status, dollar ranges, income rules, and the utility rebates that stack on top. Cited and dated.
This program is not currently claimable as stated (pending, closed, or waitlisted). Any dollar figures below are program caps, not a benefit you can get today — use the utility alternatives noted and check back.
Important — new federal rule (May 2026): Under updated US DOE guidance, the HEAR heat-pump rebate now generally applies only to new construction or homes that already have electric heat (e.g. replacing electric resistance/baseboard or an old electric heat pump). Replacing a gas, propane or oil furnace with a heat pump generally no longer qualifies for the HEAR rebate. States are adopting this on rolling timelines and the exact per-state effective dates are still settling, so confirm your specific eligibility with your state energy office. Your utility's own heat-pump rebates and any state tax credit may still apply regardless. General info as of 2026, not tax advice.
| Program status | Closed / waitlisted |
|---|---|
| HEAR status | LAUNCHED (Oct 2024 via TECH Clean California / CA Energy Commission; CA calls it HEEHRA) but CLOSED TO NEW SINGLE-FAMILY APPLICANTS — funding fully reserved; requests after Feb 24, 2026 placed on a waitlist. Phase II being designed. |
| Amount (verify) | Up to $8,000 per heat pump (≤80% AMI); up to $4,000 (80–150% AMI) — when funding was available. |
| Income rules | ≤80% AMI = up to $8,000 (100% of cost); 80–150% AMI = up to $4,000. AMI by county. |
| Utility programs | Utility/regional rebates still open and can stack: e.g. SMUD (~$3,000–$4,000), LADWP (~$2,500/ton), BayREN, plus a CA state HVAC heat-pump incentive. Verify per utility. |
Confidence: High that IRA/HEEHRA single-family funds are exhausted/waitlisted as of Feb 2026 — do not assume a new applicant can get it. As of July 2026.
Source: California energy office / program page. Also see the federal 25C & HEAR overview.
Now pick the right system
Rebates often require a qualifying efficiency (e.g. ENERGY STAR / cold-climate). Compare models and size it properly:
Compare systems → Sizing calculator →General information as of 2026, compiled from public sources — not tax or financial advice. Program amounts, funding and eligibility change often and vary by county, household size and utility; some programs pause or exhaust funds mid-year. Confirm every amount and your eligibility with the California energy office and your utility, and consult a tax professional before relying on any rebate or credit.