We Install Heat Pumps. Ask us about the state & federal rebates from Mass Save
Install a high-efficiency heat pump—and get up to $16,000 back.
Contents
Call 24/7: (617) 701-4822 Top Mass Save Approved Heat Pump HVAC Contractors in Massachusetts.
Heat pumps are more energy efficient and will pay off with lower energy costs and improved home comfort. Mass Save® rebates and incentives are available to Massachusetts homeowners, renters, and landlords. In addition, you may qualify for tax credits on the remaining cost of eligible upgrades.
Book A Free Appointment Below or Call Us 24/7 at (617) 701-4822
Examples of savings in electric costs, discounts from state & federal governments
Benefits of Mass Save Heat Pumps
Installing a heat pump through the Mass Save program offers many benefits including:
Energy Savings
- Heat pumps are 2-3 times more efficient than electric resistance heating and gas furnaces, often providing 2-4 units of heating or cooling for every unit of electricity used
- They provide equivalent heating at one-third the cost of operating an oil or propane furnace
- Heat pump efficiencies of 15-30+ SEER for cooling and 8-30+ HSPF for heating
Mass Save Rebates and Incentives
- Mass Save provides rebates up to $10,000 depending on the heat pump installed
- 0% interest financing is available on installation costs
- Federal tax credits may provide an additional 10-30% cost reduction
Environmental Impact
- Heat pumps reduce reliance on fossil fuels for heating
- This leads to lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to natural gas/propane
- Heat pumps use non-ozone depleting refrigerants
Comfort
- Heat pumps maintain comfortable temperatures throughout your home
- Advanced systems balance humidity levels and include high-tech features
- Zoned systems allow custom heating and cooling of different areas
Cost Savings
- The high efficiency of heat pumps leads to lower monthly energy bills
- Heat pumps can essentially provide free air conditioning due to their cooling function
- Lower maintenance costs than furnaces which require regular servicing
Safety
- Heat pumps are an all-electric technology so there is no combustion or associated risks
- No need to store/handle fuels, which also provides peace of mind
- Heat pump systems meet the latest safety, building, and efficiency codes
In this article, we will explore what heat pumps are, how they work, and why they are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners in the United States.
What is a Heat Pump?
A heat pump is a versatile HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system that provides both heating and cooling for residential and commercial spaces. Unlike traditional heating systems that generate heat by burning fossil fuels or using electric resistance, heat pumps transfer heat from one place to another, making them more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
How Heat Pumps Work
Heat pumps operate on the principle of thermal energy transfer. They consist of four main components: the evaporator coil, compressor, condenser coil, and an expansion valve. Here’s how the magic happens:
- Absorption of Heat: In heating mode, the heat pump extracts warmth from the outdoor air or the ground (depending on the type of heat pump) even in cold weather. It does this by using a refrigerant that can absorb and release heat energy efficiently.
- Compression: The compressor then pressurizes the refrigerant, causing it to become even hotter.
- Heat Release: The hot refrigerant flows through the indoor coil, releasing heat into your home.
- Cooling Mode: In cooling mode, the process is reversed. The heat pump extracts heat from inside your home and releases it outdoors, leaving the indoor space cooler.
Types of Heat Pumps
There are several types of heat pumps, each suited to different climate and space requirements:
1. Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP): These are the most common type of heat pump and work by extracting heat from the outdoor air. They are efficient in moderate climates.
2. Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP): GSHPs use the relatively stable temperature of the ground to provide heating and cooling. They are highly efficient but require more installation space.
3. Mini-Split Systems: These ductless heat pumps are ideal for individual rooms or small spaces, offering targeted heating and cooling.
Mass Save Heat Pump Costs
The cost of installing a heat pump will depend on the:
- Type and size of heat pump
- Extent of any ductwork modifications needed
- Any ancillary costs such as wiring upgrades
Here are typical baseline costs for different heat pump systems in Massachusetts:
- Ductless mini-split heat pump – $3,000 to $5,000 per indoor head
- Central air-source heat pump – $5,000 to $12,000 for whole home install
- Horizontal ground-source heat pump – $15,000 to $25,000
- Vertical ground-source heat pump – $15,000 to $35,000
However, Mass Save rebates and incentives can reduce these costs substantially.
Mass Save Heat Pump Rebates
Mass Save offers generous rebates and financing options for residential heat pump projects which can cover 30-100% of the installation costs.
Air-Source Heat Pump Rebates
For air-source heat pumps, the following main rebates are available:
- Ducted Central Heat Pump Install – $1000 base + $500/ton rebate
- Ductless Mini-Split Install – $1000/ton rebate
- WiFi Thermostat Controlling Heat Pump – $100 rebate
For example, installing a standard 3-ton central heat pump with WiFi thermostat would be eligible for a $3000 total rebate.
There are also add-on rebates available for:
- Converting electric heat to a heat pump – extra $500 rebate
- Low-income qualified households – extra $1500 rebate
- Moderate income qualified households – extra $1000 rebate
Ground-Source Heat Pump Rebates
The rebates for ground-source heat pump installations are even higher:
- Horizontal Ground-Source Heat Pump – $15,000 base + $2000/ton rebate
- Vertical Ground-Source Heat Pump – $15,000 base + $2000/ton rebate
For a typical 3-ton horizontal loop geothermal system, the rebate would be $21,000.
Other rebate add-ons are also available for ground-source heat pumps just like the air-source systems.
0% Financing Options
On top of the rebates, Mass Save offers 0% interest financing called HeatLoan for heat pump installations.
You can finance up to $25,000 at 0% interest for a 7-year term after applying any rebates.
Using the financing and rebates together allows homeowners to install heat pump systems with little to no upfront costs.
Mass Save Heat Pump Rebates Program
The Mass Save Heat Pump Rebates program, an energy-saving project backed by regional utilities and energy efficiency suppliers includes heat pump subsidies in Massachusetts. This program provides financial incentives for the construction of heat pump systems in order to assist residents and companies in the state in lowering their energy expenditures and reducing their carbon footprint.
Heat pumps are extremely effective heating and cooling devices that operate by transferring heat from the earth or from the interior to the outdoors. They offer an environmentally responsible alternative by using less energy and producing fewer greenhouse gases than conventional HVAC systems. Ground-source and air-source heat pumps are the two types of heat pumps that are most frequently used in Massachusetts. Whereas ground-source heat pumps, sometimes referred to as geothermal heat pumps, take use of the consistent earth temperature, air-source heat pumps draw heat from the ambient air.
If a resident of Massachusetts installs a heat pump system that is eligible, they will get enticing rebates through the Mass Save Heat Pump Rebates program. The efficiency and kindness of the heat pump installed to determine the rebate amount. The program offers appealing financing options including zero-interest loans and other incentives in addition to rebates to lower the cost of switching to heat pumps.
Residents of Massachusetts must complete a number of steps in order to be eligible for the heat pump rebates, including choosing a qualifying heat pump model, working with a certified installation, and completing a rebate application along with the necessary paperwork. Homeowners and businesses can dramatically lower the initial cost of installing a heat pump system, resulting in long-term energy savings and a smaller environmental impact, by combining these benefits with federal tax credits and other state and local incentives.
How to Get a Heat Pump Rebate (Step-by-Step Process)
Step 1: Research Eligible Heat Pump Models
Households must install qualifying heat pump systems that adhere to strict efficiency requirements in order to qualify for the Mass Save Heat Pump Rebates program.
You can start your search for qualified heat pump models by going to the Mass Save ™ website, where you’ll find a list of models that adhere to the program’s requirements.
It’s critical to take your home’s size, design, and heating and cooling requirements into account when picking a heat pump system. Search for models with excellent efficiency ratings, like Energy Star certification, that are the right size for your house.
Moreover, you can seek advice from a qualified HVAC contractor who is knowledgeable about the Mass Save Heat Pump Rebates program and can assist you in selecting a heat pump system that satisfies the program’s eligibility standards.
Step 2: Select A Qualified Installer
In order to qualify for a heat pump refund, you must choose an experienced installer. Take these actions:
Start your research by looking for nearby heat pump installers. To find trustworthy businesses, use social media, search engines, and internet directories.
Credentials – Verify the installer’s insurance, bonding, and licensing. To determine their level of experience, look for relevant certificates like NATE (North American Technician Excellence) or ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America).
Reviews – To evaluate the reputation of the installer, read client endorsements and comments. Give providers with a track record of successful installs and excellent customer reviews a priority.
Experience – Choose an installation that has worked with heat pump systems like the one you’re thinking about. This guarantees that they possess the expertise needed to set up and maintain your system.
Knowledge of Rebates – Confirm that the installer is knowledgeable about the rebate procedure and is able to guide you through it. They should be informed of the prerequisites, paperwork needs, and submission deadlines.
Get Quote – Get quotations from various installers and contrast the services, prices, and warranties each offers. Choose the installer that satisfies all of your requirements while providing the best value.
Finalize: To ensure a successful, efficient process, schedule the installation after selecting a qualified installer and talk about rebate guidelines.
Step 3: Schedule An Energy Assessment Or Audit (If Required)
To be eligible for a heat pump rebate, you may need to schedule an energy audit or evaluation. Take these actions:
1. Verify the conditions of the particular rebate program to discover if an energy audit or assessment is required. Programs may use a variety of evaluation methods and criteria.
2. Locate an energy auditor or assessor who is accredited in your area. Seek out experts that have qualifications from organizations like the BPI (Building Performance Institute) or RESNET (Residential Energy Services Network).
3. Get in touch with the auditor and arrange a time for the energy analysis. Make sure they are accessible before the cutoff for rebate applications.
4. Gather utility bills and any other relevant paperwork regarding your home’s energy usage before the audit to be prepared. To make access easier, remove any obstructive items from surrounding appliances and mechanical systems.
5. The assessor will look at your home’s insulation, airtightness, HVAC systems, and overall energy efficiency during the audit. They might make use of specialist equipment like infrared cameras or blower doors.
6. Following the audit, the assessor will present a report describing the energy efficiency of your home and recommending upgrades, such as the installation of a heat pump.
7. To be eligible for the reimbursement program, make the suggested adjustments as needed. Working with your installer to make sure the new heat pump satisfies the required efficiency standards may be necessary for this.
To include in your rebate application, you must have the assessment report and any other necessary papers. The papers should be kept on file for future use.
Step 4: Complete The Heat Pump Installation
The effective completion of the heat pump installation is one of the most important elements to obtaining a refund for heat pumps. This procedure makes sure that your new energy-efficient system is set up and fitted correctly to get the most out of it.
Pick a qualified installer who has worked with heat pump systems first. A competent installer will guide you through the rebate criteria in addition to ensuring a seamless installation experience.
Choose a time for the installation that is convenient for both you and the installer. The certified technician will install the heat pump in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and any applicable industry regulations.
Also, they’ll make sure the heat pump satisfies the requirements for the efficiency of the rebate program you’re aiming for.
Your technician will test the system after installation is finished to ensure performance and make any required modifications. Also, they ought to give you instructions on how to maintain and run the heat pump for maximum effectiveness.
Finally, compile all essential documents for the heat pump installation, including bills, ratings for energy efficiency, and any applicable permits or inspection reports.
These records will demonstrate a professionally performed installation and are essential for your reimbursement application.
Step 5: Submit The Rebate Application
Homeowners must submit an application for a heat pump reimbursement by doing the following:
Research Rebate Programs – Look into the local rebate programs that are offered. They might be provided by regional utilities, administrative bodies, or producers. Learn the qualifying requirements, deadlines, and required documentation for each program.
Gather Documentation – Gather any essential paperwork, including invoices for the heat pump’s purchase and installation, energy assessment reports (if necessary), certifications of the heat pump’s efficiency, and any licenses or inspection reports. For your records, make copies.
Complete Application Form – Get the rebate application form from the program’s website or the administrator by getting in touch with them. Fill out the form completely and truthfully, paying close attention to every field. Your installer or energy auditor might be able to help if you need it.
Attach Supporting Documents – Provide copies of all necessary supporting documents with your application, making sure they are accurate and legible.
Review and Verify – Make sure your application and any attachments are accurate and complete. Verify that all of the data complies with the program’s requirements.
Application Submission – By the time provided, send the program administrator your completed rebate application and any necessary supporting documentation. Depending on the requirements of the program, you can usually do this online, by mail, or in person.
Monitor Status – Check the program website or get in touch with the administrator to find out the status of your application. To guarantee that your application is processed in a timely manner, react right away if any problems arise or further information is required.
Get Rebate – Upon approval of your application, you will receive the rebate in accordance with the conditions of the program, typically in the form of a check or a credit on your utility bill. Depending on the curriculum, this could take a few weeks or even months.
After successfully installing your air source heat pump and gathering all necessary documentation, you can proceed to fill out the online rebate form for either a full or partial home heat pump system. Utilizing this online method is the most convenient and rapid approach to securing your Mass Save heat pump rebates.
Top Heat Pump Installation Contractors in Massachusetts
How to Apply for Enhanced Rebates
Step 1
Verify eligibility. Confirm that your household income meets the eligibility requirements before applying for rebates. Visit Masssave.com/Enhanced or call 1-866-527-7283 to get verified. Cape Light Compact customers should call 1-800-797-6699 to get verified.
Step 2
Prepare your home. A Home Energy Assessment is required to participate in this program. Visit Masssave.com/HEA or call 1-866-527-7283 to schedule.
Step 3
Weatherize your home. All weatherization updates recommended for your home during the Home Energy Assessment must be completed prior to applying for the enhanced rebate. All weatherization work is available at no cost for income verified customers.
Step 4
Work with a contractor. Heat pumps must be installed by a contractor participating in the Mass Save Heat Pump Installer Network. Combustion heating equipment must be installed by a licensed contractor. Schedule and complete installation of eligible equipment between July 1, 2023 and December 31, 2023.
Step 5
Consider financing: Interested in 0% financing? Apply for a Mass Save HEAT Loan prior to installing your equipment. Learn more at MassSave.com/HeatLoan.
Step 6
Claim your rebate. After your home is weatherized and your equipment is installed, your Home Energy Specialist will provide access to the enhanced incentive form. Submit the completed form and supporting documents to receive your rebate. Please note that you must verify your income, complete a Home Energy Assessment, and complete all recommended weatherization updates to be eligible for enhanced residential rebates.
