Heat Pump Water Heater Rebates 2026
Heat pump water heaters qualify for up to $1,750 in HEAR rebates and are one of the most cost-effective energy upgrades you can make. They use 2-3 times less energy than conventional electric water heaters, and federal plus utility rebates can cover a large portion of the upfront cost.
Calculate Your Heat Pump Water Heater Rebate
Available Heat Pump Water Heater Rebates
| Program | Max Amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| HEAR | $1,750 | ≤80% AMI (100% coverage up to cap) |
| HEAR | $1,750 | 80-150% AMI (50% of cost, up to cap) |
| HOMES | Up to $8,000 | As part of whole-home retrofit achieving energy savings |
| Utility Programs | Varies ($200-$1,000 typical) | Check your local utility for water heater rebates |
Heat Pump Water Heater Rebates
Under the HEAR program, heat pump water heaters are eligible for rebates up to $1,750. This covers the most popular models on the market, since a typical heat pump water heater costs between $1,200 and $3,500 installed.
For households at or below 80% AMI, the rebate covers 100% of the cost up to $1,750, meaning many families can get a heat pump water heater installed at little to no cost. Households between 80-150% AMI receive 50% of costs up to the cap.
Important: only heat pump water heaters qualify for this rebate. Standard electric resistance water heaters and gas water heaters are not eligible. The heat pump technology works by extracting heat from surrounding air to heat the water, making it far more efficient than traditional methods.
This rebate is part of your household's overall $14,000 HEAR cap, so plan accordingly if you're also pursuing other upgrades like a heat pump HVAC system or electrical panel.
Qualifying Models
To qualify for the HEAR rebate, your heat pump water heater must meet ENERGY STAR certification requirements. The good news is that most major manufacturers now offer qualifying models:
- Rheem ProTerra: One of the most popular and efficient models, with a Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) up to 4.0. Available in 40, 50, 65, and 80-gallon sizes.
- A.O. Smith Voltex: A reliable option with strong efficiency ratings and wide availability through major home improvement retailers.
- Bradford White AeroTherm: A contractor-favorite brand with solid performance in various installation environments.
- Stiebel Eltron Accelera: A premium European-engineered option known for quiet operation and high efficiency.
When selecting a model, consider your household size (50-gallon is standard for 3-4 people), the installation location (heat pump water heaters need adequate air space around them), and the ambient temperature of the installation area (they work best in spaces that stay above 40°F year-round).
Stacking Utility and Federal Rebates
One of the smartest moves you can make is combining your HEAR rebate with utility incentives. Many utility companies offer their own rebates for heat pump water heaters, typically ranging from $200 to $1,000.
Here's how stacking might work in practice: Say your heat pump water heater costs $2,800 installed. If you're at or below 80% AMI, HEAR covers $1,750. Your utility offers a $500 rebate. Your total out-of-pocket drops to $550 for an appliance that will save you $300-$500 per year on water heating costs.
To stack rebates effectively:
- Check your utility's rebate program first, as some require pre-approval before purchase.
- Apply for the HEAR rebate through your state's program (this is typically handled at point of sale by participating contractors).
- Submit your utility rebate application separately, usually with proof of purchase and installation.
- Some states also offer additional state-level incentives that can be layered on top.
Keep all receipts, contractor invoices, and model number documentation. You'll need these for each rebate application.
Heat Pump Water Heater Rebates by State
Select your state to see specific heat pump water heater rebate programs available in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the rebate for a heat pump water heater?
The HEAR program provides up to $1,750 for a heat pump water heater. Households earning at or below 80% AMI get 100% of costs covered up to that cap. Households at 80-150% AMI get 50% of costs covered up to $1,750. You can often stack this with utility rebates of $200-$1,000 for even greater savings.
Do regular electric or gas water heaters qualify for rebates?
No. Only heat pump water heaters qualify for the HEAR rebate. Standard electric resistance water heaters and gas water heaters are not eligible. Heat pump water heaters use a fundamentally different technology that is 2-3 times more efficient, which is why they qualify for federal incentives.
Where should I install a heat pump water heater?
Heat pump water heaters need a space with at least 700-1,000 cubic feet of air around them (roughly a 10x10 foot room). They work best in areas that stay above 40°F year-round, like a basement, garage, or utility room. They also produce cool, dehumidified air as a byproduct, which can be a bonus in warm climates but a consideration in cold basements.
How much will I save on energy bills with a heat pump water heater?
Most households save $300-$500 per year on water heating costs after switching from a standard electric water heater. Savings are even greater if you're switching from an electric resistance model in an area with high electricity rates. Over the 13-15 year lifespan of the unit, total savings typically range from $4,000 to $7,500.
Can I get the water heater rebate and a heat pump HVAC rebate?
Yes. The HEAR program allows you to claim rebates for multiple eligible appliances, up to a total household cap of $14,000. A heat pump water heater ($1,750) combined with a heat pump HVAC system ($8,000) would use $9,750 of your cap, leaving room for additional upgrades like insulation or an electrical panel.