Unlock Savings on HVAC Upgrades: Your Comprehensive Guide to TECH and HEEHRA Rebates in the San Francisco Bay Area
Discover the Power of Efficient HVAC Systems with Galaxy Heating & Air Conditioning, Solar, Electrical
As energy costs continue to rise, homeowners in the San Francisco Bay Area have a golden opportunity to upgrade to energy-efficient HVAC systems with the support of two major rebate programs: the TECH Clean California Initiative and the High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Act (HEEHRA). These programs provide significant financial incentives to ease the transition to high-efficiency electric systems, such as heat pumps and water heaters. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of these rebates, the qualifying equipment, eligibility requirements, rebate amounts, prerequisites, and the application process. Galaxy Services is here to assist you in navigating the process and maximizing your savings.
1. Overview of the TECH and HEEHRA Rebates
TECH Clean California Initiative (TECH)
The TECH Clean California Initiative is a statewide program designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by promoting advanced, energy-efficient electric technologies, including heat pump HVAC systems and heat pump water heaters. This initiative provides rebates that can substantially lower the upfront cost of installing these systems.
High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Act (HEEHRA)
HEEHRA, a federal rebate program, aims to reduce energy bills for low- and moderate-income households by making high-efficiency electric home upgrades more accessible. The HEEHRA program incentivizes the installation of heat pumps, electrical panels, and other efficient appliances, allowing homeowners to save money and reduce their carbon footprint.
HEEHRA Rebates – Eligible Homes, Equipment, and Income
Eligible single family homes must be in California, be an existing home (not new construction), and are defined as 4 or less units. It includes manufactured/mobile homes, duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and individual condominiums.
Rebates are available for new heat pump heating, ventilation, and conditioning (heat pump HVAC) systems in existing homes.
California residents with single family household incomes between 80% and 150% area median income are eligible for up to $4,000.
Californians with single family household incomes less than 80% area median income are eligible for up to $8,000.
Household income must be verified through the portal to confirm customer eligibility for the appropriate rebate amounts:

2. Qualifying Equipment
Both TECH and HEEHRA rebates cover a range of energy-efficient equipment aimed at maximizing energy savings:
Heat Pump Systems
- Air-source heat pumps – Efficient for both heating and cooling, these systems transfer heat instead of generating it, leading to significant energy savings.
- Heat pump water heaters – These units transfer heat from the surrounding air to heat water, reducing energy costs compared to traditional water heaters.
Electrical Upgrades and Appliances (HEEHRA-specific)
- Electrical panels – To support the load of new high-efficiency appliances, many homes may need electrical panel upgrades.
- Electric stoves and dryers – Efficient, eco-friendly alternatives to gas-powered appliances.
3. Customer Eligibility
TECH Rebate Eligibility
- Homeowners in the San Francisco Bay Area are eligible for the TECH rebate program.
- Single-family homes and multi-family buildings are eligible (with separate applications needed for each unit).
- No income limit, making the TECH program accessible to a broad range of customers.
HEEHRA Rebate Eligibility
- Designed specifically for low- and moderate-income households to make energy-efficient options more accessible.
- Income thresholds vary by household size, based on the San Francisco Bay Area’s area median income (AMI):
- Low-income households: Households earning less than 80% of the AMI.
- Moderate-income households: Households earning between 80% and 150% of the AMI.
Visit HEEHRA Income Verification portal to verify eligibility: https://heehra-incomeportal.com/
4. Rebate Amounts
TECH Rebates
- Heat Pump HVAC Systems: Up to $3,000 in rebates for qualifying air-source heat pumps.
- Heat Pump Water Heaters: Up to $3,100 for eligible units.
- Additional rebates may be available from local utilities, which can be combined with TECH incentives for greater savings.
HEEHRA Rebates
- Heat Pump HVAC Systems: Up to $8,000 for eligible low- and moderate-income households.
- Heat Pump Water Heaters: Up to $1,750 per unit.
- Electrical Panel Upgrades: Up to $4,000, necessary for homes needing to support new energy-efficient appliances.
- Additional Appliances: Up to $840 for electric stoves and clothes dryers.
- Total Rebate Potential: Households may receive up to $14,000 in HEEHRA rebates.
5. Prerequisites for Rebates
Before applying, homeowners should confirm they meet the prerequisites:
For TECH Rebates
- Installation must be done by a licensed contractor participating in the TECH program (Galaxy Services is a registered TECH contractor).
- Equipment must be ENERGY STAR® certified and listed on the TECH program’s qualifying products directory. Only 2-stage or variable speed equipment qualifies.
For HEEHRA Rebates
- Income eligibility must be met.
- Qualified equipment must be installed by a participating contractor.
- Equipment must be ENERGY STAR® certified and listed on the TECH program’s qualifying products directory. Only 2-stage or variable speed equipment qualifies.
- Some local utilities may require a home energy audit before processing rebates, especially if combined with other incentives.
6. Application Process
Applying for TECH and HEEHRA rebates involves several steps. Galaxy Services offers end-to-end support to streamline the process:
Assessment and Quote – Galaxy Services will assess your current HVAC system, provide an energy consultation, and discuss eligible equipment options.
Income Verification (for HEEHRA) – Income verification is required for the HEEHRA program, and Galaxy Services will guide you on necessary documentation.
Installation and Documentation – Our team ensures all qualifying equipment is installed to program standards and that documentation is prepared to meet rebate requirements.
Rebate Application Submission – Galaxy Services assists in filling out and submitting rebate applications, ensuring you receive the maximum amount possible.
Additional Utility Rebates – We identify and apply for any additional utility rebates available to further reduce your costs.
7. Additional Resources for Homeowners
For detailed information on the most recent TECH rebate updates, visit:
- TECH Clean California Initiative: techcleanca.com
- HEEHRA Program and Income Guidelines: Check the U.S. Department of Energy or local administering agencies for current guidelines.
Galaxy Services is also available to answer questions and clarify eligibility requirements, rebate amounts, and technical specifications. Our team will be with you from initial assessment through to application, ensuring every eligible rebate is secured and that the entire process is straightforward and efficient.
8. Why Choose Galaxy Services?
The rebate application process can be complex, but Galaxy Services specializes in helping Bay Area homeowners maximize these savings opportunities. With our expertise, you can trust that you’ll receive the highest value from your energy-efficient upgrades, making a positive impact on both your energy bill and the environment.
Contact Galaxy Services today to schedule an assessment, and let us help you achieve significant savings through the TECH and HEEHRA rebate programs. We’re here to make your HVAC upgrade affordable, efficient, and stress-free.