HEEHR Heat Pump Rebates Coming to Nevada: Up to $8,000 for Las Vegas Homeowners in 2026

What Is the HEEHR/HEAR Heat Pump Rebate Program?

The program most people know as HEEHR — the High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate — has been officially rebranded by the Department of Energy as HEAR: Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates. You will see it referred to by both names online. The older acronym HEEHRA (High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Act) also appears in many articles and government documents. They all refer to the same program.

HEAR was created under Section 50122 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), signed into law in August 2022. The IRA allocated $4.5 billion nationally for HEAR, with each state receiving a share based on population and energy consumption. Nevada's allocation is $47.9 million specifically for HEAR rebates.

There is a companion program called HOMES (Home Owner Managing Energy Savings), also created by the IRA, which received a separate allocation of $48.2 million for Nevada. Combined, Nevada is set to receive approximately $96 million in federal rebate funding for residential energy efficiency improvements. This article focuses on the HEAR program, which covers heat pumps and electrification equipment.

How is HEAR different from a tax credit?

This is the single most important distinction for Las Vegas homeowners to understand. HEAR is a point-of-sale rebate, not a tax credit. Here is what that means in practice:

• Tax credit (like the old 25C): You pay the full price for your heat pump installation. Months later, when you file your federal taxes, you claim a credit that reduces what you owe. If your tax liability is less than the credit, you lose the difference. You need cash or financing to cover the entire cost upfront.
• Point-of-sale rebate (HEAR): Your contractor applies the rebate at the time of purchase. The price you pay on installation day is already reduced by the rebate amount. You never see the full price on your bill. The contractor is reimbursed by the program after the fact.

For a family earning modest income — the exact households HEAR is designed to help — this difference is transformative. Under the old tax credit system, a family would need to finance $18,000 for a heat pump and then wait until tax season to recoup $2,000. Under HEAR, that same family could see their installation cost reduced to $10,000 or less on the day the work is completed.

This also means your contractor must be registered with the HEAR program. They are the ones who process the rebate and receive reimbursement from the state. A contractor who is not registered cannot offer you the point-of-sale discount. This is not optional — it is how the program is structured.

What happened to the Inflation Reduction Act rebates everyone was talking about?

The Inflation Reduction Act created two distinct types of residential energy incentives:

1. Section 25C tax credits — These were available from 2023 through 2025 and provided up to $2,000 per year for qualifying heat pump installations. They expired on December 31, 2025.
2. Section 50122 HEAR rebates — These are the point-of-sale rebates discussed in this article. They were always intended to roll out state by state over several years, with each state designing its own implementation. Nevada's program is funded but has not yet launched.

Many Las Vegas homeowners who installed heat pumps in 2023, 2024, or 2025 benefited from the 25C credit. That program is now closed. HEAR is the remaining — and for qualifying households, significantly more generous — IRA incentive still coming to Nevada.

How Much Can Las Vegas Homeowners Save?

HEAR rebate amounts are set by federal law and vary by equipment type. Here is the full breakdown of what the program covers:

Equipment Type	Maximum HEAR Rebate
Heat pump (for space heating and cooling)	Up to $8,000
Heat pump water heater	Up to $1,750
Electrical panel upgrade	Up to $4,000
Electric wiring	Up to $2,500
Insulation, air sealing, ventilation	Up to $1,600
Electric stove, cooktop, range, oven, or dryer	Up to $840

These are per-item maximums. The total amount a household can receive depends on income:

• Households at or below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI): Eligible for rebates covering 100% of project costs, up to a total household cap of $14,000.
• Households between 80% and 150% of AMI: Eligible for rebates covering 50% of project costs, up to a total household cap of $7,000.
• Households above 150% of AMI: Not eligible for HEAR rebates.

Let us put some real numbers on this for a Las Vegas heat pump installation. If your heat pump installation costs $18,000 and your household is at or below 80% AMI, you could receive the full $8,000 heat pump rebate — because $8,000 is less than the $14,000 household cap and less than 100% of the project cost. Your out-of-pocket cost drops to $10,000 before any other rebates.

If your household is between 80% and 150% AMI, the rebate covers 50% of costs. For that same $18,000 installation, 50% would be $9,000 — but the heat pump rebate caps at $8,000, so you would receive $7,000 (the household cap for this income tier). Your out-of-pocket would be $11,000.

The math gets even better when you add additional qualifying equipment. If you also need an electrical panel upgrade to support the heat pump (common in older Las Vegas homes built before 1990), you could claim up to $4,000 for the panel on top of the $8,000 for the heat pump — potentially $12,000 in combined HEAR rebates for a low-income household. The $14,000 household cap is the ceiling.

What Equipment Qualifies for HEAR Rebates in Nevada?

Not every heat pump or appliance qualifies. The program has specific requirements:

Heat pumps for space heating and cooling

This is the flagship rebate and the one most relevant to Las Vegas homeowners. Qualifying systems include:

• Central ducted heat pumps (split systems) — The most common configuration in Southern Nevada. Replaces your outdoor condenser and indoor air handler, providing both cooling and heating from one system.
• Ductless mini-split heat pumps — Ideal for homes without ductwork, room additions, casitas, and converted garages.
• Packaged heat pump units — All-in-one rooftop or ground-level units common in manufactured homes and some commercial applications.

All qualifying heat pumps must be ENERGY STAR certified. This is a federal requirement. ENERGY STAR heat pumps meet efficiency standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy. For central systems in the Southwest region (which includes Las Vegas), ENERGY STAR certification requires a minimum SEER2 of 15.2 and HSPF2 of 7.8. Most modern heat pumps from major manufacturers like Lennox, Carrier, Trane, Rheem, and Goodman meet or exceed these thresholds, but it is critical that your contractor verify ENERGY STAR certification before installation.

For a detailed comparison of the best heat pump systems for the Las Vegas climate, including efficiency ratings and brand comparisons, see our complete guide.

Heat pump water heaters

Heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) use the same refrigerant cycle technology as an HVAC heat pump, but they heat water instead of air. They are two to three times more efficient than conventional electric resistance water heaters and significantly cheaper to operate than gas water heaters in many scenarios. The HEAR rebate of up to $1,750 can cover a meaningful portion of the installed cost, which typically ranges from $3,000 to $5,500 in Las Vegas.

HPWHs must also be ENERGY STAR certified. They work best in unconditioned spaces like garages — which is where most Las Vegas water heaters are located. Our Las Vegas garage temperatures (which can exceed 130 degrees in summer) actually improve heat pump water heater performance because the unit extracts heat from the surrounding air.

Electrical panel upgrades

Many older homes in Las Vegas — particularly those built in the 1970s through 1990s — have 100-amp or 150-amp electrical panels. Switching from a gas furnace to an all-electric heat pump system sometimes requires upgrading to a 200-amp panel, especially if you are also adding an electric vehicle charger, heat pump water heater, or electric cooking appliances. The $4,000 HEAR rebate for panel upgrades addresses what has historically been one of the biggest hidden costs of electrification.

Electric wiring

New circuits, wire runs, and sub-panels needed to support new electric equipment qualify for up to $2,500. This is particularly relevant when installing a heat pump in a home that previously used gas heating — the outdoor unit may need a dedicated 240-volt circuit that does not currently exist.

Insulation, air sealing, and ventilation

Up to $1,600 for improving your home's thermal envelope. In Las Vegas, attic insulation is the biggest opportunity. Many homes built in the 1990s and 2000s have settled insulation that has lost significant R-value. Adding blown-in insulation to bring your attic back to R-38 or higher improves your heat pump's efficiency and reduces the system size needed to cool your home — which can further reduce your installation cost.

Electric stoves, cooktops, ranges, ovens, and dryers

The $840 rebate for electric cooking and laundry appliances is smaller but can still be meaningful as part of a broader home electrification project. These rebates are separate from the heat pump rebate and do not reduce your heat pump allocation.

When Will Nevada Launch the HEAR Program?

This is the question Las Vegas homeowners ask most frequently, and the honest answer is: we do not know exactly when, but all signs point to 2026.

Here is what we know for certain as of March 2026:

• Funding is secured. Nevada's $47.9 million HEAR allocation from the Department of Energy has been approved and committed.
• The Nevada Governor's Office of Energy (GOE) is the administering agency. The GOE is responsible for designing Nevada's implementation plan, setting up contractor registration, and managing the rebate application and reimbursement process.
• Everblue is the implementation contractor. The GOE has contracted with Everblue to handle the operational aspects of the program — including contractor training, certification, application processing, and quality assurance.
• The program is NOT yet accepting applications. As of March 2026, no Nevada homeowner can apply for or receive a HEAR rebate. There is no application portal, no contractor registration system, and no rebate processing in place.

Several other states launched their HEAR programs in late 2025 and early 2026, including New York, Wisconsin, Maine, Colorado, and New Mexico. Each state has moved at its own pace based on the complexity of its implementation plan and existing energy program infrastructure. Nevada is neither the first nor the last — it is moving methodically through the administrative process.

What does "point-of-sale" mean for the rollout?

The point-of-sale structure creates specific requirements that must be in place before the program can launch:

1. Contractor registration and training. HVAC contractors who want to offer HEAR rebates must be registered with the program and trained on the application process. They need to understand eligibility verification, rebate calculation, and the reimbursement workflow. This infrastructure takes time to build.
2. Income verification system. Because HEAR rebates are income-based, the program needs a way to verify household income at the point of sale. This is more complex than the old 25C tax credit, which had no income requirements.
3. Reimbursement pipeline. Contractors apply the rebate as a discount on the homeowner's invoice. The contractor then submits for reimbursement from the state. This requires a funded escrow or reimbursement account and a processing system to handle claims efficiently. No contractor will offer point-of-sale discounts unless they are confident the reimbursement system works.

All of this is being built. It is not a question of whether Nevada will launch HEAR — it is a question of when the administrative machinery is ready. The Cooling Company is monitoring this closely and will be among the first contractors to register when the program opens.

Should you wait for HEAR to launch before buying a heat pump?

This depends entirely on your situation. If your current system is failing, unsafe, or costing you hundreds of dollars per month in excess energy bills, waiting for a program with no confirmed launch date is not practical. The NV Energy PowerShift program is available right now and can save you up to approximately $3,300 on a qualifying heat pump installation.

If your system is functional and you are planning a replacement in the next 6 to 12 months, it may be worth tracking the HEAR launch timeline. But do not let the promise of a future rebate keep you running a system that is costing you money every month in inflated energy bills. A 15-year-old, 10-SEER air conditioner running through a Las Vegas summer can cost $200-$400 more per month in electricity than a modern heat pump. Every month you wait is money lost.

Can You Stack HEAR Rebates with NV Energy PowerShift?

This is where the savings math gets genuinely exciting for Las Vegas homeowners. The short answer: federal guidelines generally allow stacking HEAR rebates with utility rebates, provided the combined total does not exceed 100% of project costs. Confirm with your contractor and the Nevada program when it launches.

NV Energy's PowerShift program is a utility rebate funded entirely by NV Energy ratepayers. It is completely separate from federal HEAR funding. The two programs have different funding sources, different administrators, and different eligibility criteria. This separation is what makes stacking likely.

Current NV Energy PowerShift rebate amounts (2026)

PowerShift rebate amounts depend on your system's efficiency rating and your income status:

• Standard residential customers: Up to approximately $1,940 for qualifying heat pump installations (amount varies by efficiency tier)
• Income-qualified customers: Up to approximately $3,300 for qualifying heat pump installations (enhanced rebates for customers on NV Energy's low-income programs)

PowerShift has no income limit for the standard rebate. Any NV Energy residential customer can qualify. Income-qualified customers receive enhanced amounts through the utility's Energy Assistance programs. For the full breakdown of PowerShift tiers, eligibility, and the claim process, read our complete NV Energy PowerShift guide.

Stacking scenario 1: Low-income household

Consider a family of four in North Las Vegas earning below 80% of Area Median Income, replacing a 20-year-old AC and gas furnace with a high-efficiency heat pump system.

Line Item	Amount
Heat pump installation (equipment, labor, materials, permits)	$18,000
HEAR rebate (100% of costs, up to $8,000 for heat pump)	-$8,000
NV Energy PowerShift (income-qualified, premium tier)	-$3,300
Estimated out-of-pocket	$6,700

That is a combined savings of $11,300 — more than 60% of the installation cost covered by rebates alone. For a family that may have assumed a modern heat pump system was financially out of reach, this changes the equation entirely.

Stacking scenario 2: Moderate-income household

Now consider a couple in Henderson earning between 80% and 150% of AMI, replacing a 12-year-old system with a standard-efficiency heat pump.

Line Item	Amount
Heat pump installation (equipment, labor, materials, permits)	$16,000
HEAR rebate (50% of costs = $8,000, capped at $7,000 household max)	-$7,000
NV Energy PowerShift (standard residential, mid-tier)	-$1,500
Estimated out-of-pocket	$7,500

A combined savings of $8,500, or just over 53% of the project cost. The moderate-income household does not receive as large a HEAR rebate, but the combination of both programs still cuts the out-of-pocket cost nearly in half.

Stacking scenario 3: Standard-income household (above 150% AMI)

Households earning above 150% of AMI do not qualify for HEAR rebates. However, NV Energy PowerShift has no income limit. A higher-income household installing a premium-efficiency heat pump can still receive up to approximately $1,940 from PowerShift. On an $18,000 installation, that brings the cost down to approximately $16,060.

If you fall into this income bracket, PowerShift is your primary financial incentive in 2026. The expired 25C tax credit is no longer available, and HEAR is income-restricted. The good news is that a high-efficiency heat pump saves $600 to $1,000 or more per year in energy costs compared to an aging conventional system, so the return on investment is still compelling even without the federal rebate.

Important stacking caveat

Federal guidelines state that combined incentives cannot exceed 100% of the project cost. In practice, this threshold is unlikely to be reached for most Las Vegas installations. An $18,000 heat pump installation with $8,000 in HEAR and $3,300 in PowerShift totals $11,300 in combined rebates — still well below 100% of the project cost. But the rule exists, and your contractor should verify compliance when the program launches.

Who Qualifies for HEEHR Rebates? Income Requirements Explained

HEAR eligibility is determined by your household income relative to the Area Median Income (AMI) for the Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise Metropolitan Statistical Area. This is the same AMI framework used by HUD for housing assistance programs.

The three income tiers

• At or below 80% AMI — Maximum rebates. You qualify for rebates covering 100% of project costs, up to a $14,000 total household cap. This tier is designed for low-income households who face the greatest energy burden (energy costs as a percentage of household income).
• Between 80% and 150% AMI — Reduced rebates. You qualify for rebates covering 50% of project costs, up to a $7,000 total household cap. This tier is designed for moderate-income households who can afford some of the cost but need assistance to make the upgrade financially feasible.
• Above 150% AMI — Not eligible. You do not qualify for HEAR rebates at any amount. Other incentives like NV Energy PowerShift and long-term energy savings are your primary financial benefits.

What is Area Median Income and how do I check mine?

AMI is a statistical measure published annually by HUD. It represents the midpoint of all household incomes in a metropolitan area — half of households earn more, half earn less. The AMI is adjusted for household size, recognizing that a family of six needs more income than a single person to maintain the same standard of living.

We intentionally do not publish specific dollar figures for AMI thresholds in this article. There are two reasons:

1. AMI changes annually. HUD publishes updated AMI figures each year. The thresholds that apply when Nevada's HEAR program launches may differ from current published figures.
2. Nevada's program may adjust thresholds. While the 80% and 150% tiers are set by federal law, the specific AMI dollar amounts used for verification will be determined by the program administrator when the application system is finalized.

When the program launches, your contractor or the Nevada GOE will verify your income against the applicable thresholds. You can estimate your tier by searching for "Las Vegas AMI" on the HUD website or by asking your contractor during a consultation.

What counts as "household income"?

For HEAR purposes, household income typically includes the gross annual income of all adult members of the household. This includes wages, salaries, Social Security, pension income, rental income, and self-employment income. The exact verification method — whether it uses tax returns, pay stubs, or a self-certification system — will be determined by Nevada's program design.

If you are retired, work part-time, or have a household income that fluctuates, you may qualify even if you would not expect to. Many retirees in Las Vegas living on Social Security and modest pension income fall well within the 80% AMI tier.

Why income-based rebates matter in Las Vegas

Las Vegas has one of the highest energy burdens in the country for low-income households. In a city where summer electricity bills routinely exceed $300-$400 per month and outdoor temperatures hit 115 degrees or higher for weeks at a time, air conditioning is not a luxury — it is a survival necessity. Low-income households often run the oldest, least efficient equipment because they cannot afford to replace it. They pay the highest energy bills with the lowest incomes. HEAR is specifically designed to break this cycle by making high-efficiency heat pumps accessible to the households that benefit most from reduced energy costs.

How the HEAR Rebate Process Works (Step by Step)?

Based on how other states have implemented HEAR and the point-of-sale structure defined by federal law, here is how the process is expected to work when Nevada launches:

Step 1: Find a registered, qualified contractor

The contractor you choose must be registered with Nevada's HEAR program. Registration will likely require a valid Nevada contractor's license (C-21 for HVAC), proof of insurance, and completion of program-specific training. Not every HVAC contractor in Las Vegas will be registered, especially in the early months of the program.

The Cooling Company holds Nevada contractor licenses #0075849 (C-21 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning) and #0078611 (C-1D Plumbing) and will be registering for the HEAR program as soon as contractor enrollment opens.

Step 2: Schedule a home energy assessment

Your contractor assesses your current HVAC system, evaluates your home's energy needs using Manual J load calculations, and recommends equipment options. During this assessment, the contractor will also verify your income eligibility for HEAR and identify all applicable rebates — both federal and utility.

This step is free when you work with The Cooling Company. Call (702) 567-0707 or Schedule Now to set up an assessment.

Step 3: Review your quote with rebates applied

Because HEAR is a point-of-sale rebate, your contractor's quote should show the rebate as a line-item deduction. You should see:

• Total installation cost (equipment, labor, materials, permits)
• HEAR rebate amount (based on your income tier and equipment)
• NV Energy PowerShift rebate amount (if applicable)
• Your out-of-pocket cost after all rebates
• Monthly financing payment (if applicable)

This transparency is critical. You should know exactly what you are paying and what the rebate covers before any work begins.

Step 4: Installation by the registered contractor

The contractor installs your ENERGY STAR certified heat pump system. Installation must meet program quality standards, which typically include proper system sizing, refrigerant charge verification, airflow testing, and thermostat commissioning. These are the same quality standards The Cooling Company follows on every installation, regardless of whether a rebate is involved.

Step 5: Contractor processes the rebate

After installation, your contractor submits the rebate claim to the program administrator (in Nevada's case, Everblue, operating under the GOE). The contractor documents the equipment installed (including ENERGY STAR certification), your income verification, the rebate amount applied, and proof of installation. The contractor is then reimbursed by the program.

From your perspective as the homeowner, the process ends at Step 4. You received your rebate at the point of sale. The contractor handles the paperwork and reimbursement behind the scenes.

Why Heat Pumps Make Sense in Las Vegas?

If you have been debating whether a heat pump is the right choice for your Las Vegas home, the climate data is strongly in your favor. The desert Southwest is one of the best environments in the country for heat pump performance, and the HEAR program makes the financial case even stronger.

Mild winters maximize heat pump heating efficiency

Heat pumps lose efficiency as outdoor temperatures drop. In Minneapolis, where January temperatures regularly hit -10 degrees, a heat pump struggles to extract enough heat from outdoor air to warm a home. In Las Vegas, average January lows are around 33 degrees, and daytime highs typically reach the mid-50s. These temperatures are well within the optimal operating range for heat pumps. You get near-peak heating efficiency all winter long.

This is a Las Vegas-specific advantage that national articles about heat pumps often miss. The "heat pumps don't work in cold climates" caveat that applies to northern states is irrelevant here. Las Vegas winters are exactly the conditions heat pumps were designed for. For a detailed comparison, see our guide on heat pump vs. central AC in Las Vegas.

One system replaces two

Most Las Vegas homes have two separate systems: an air conditioner for cooling and a gas furnace for heating. A heat pump replaces both with a single piece of equipment. It cools your home in summer by moving heat from inside to outside (exactly like an AC), and heats your home in winter by reversing the process — extracting heat from outdoor air and moving it inside.

Eliminating the gas furnace means:

• No more Southwest Gas bill for heating (savings of $30-$60 per month in winter)
• No more combustion safety concerns (carbon monoxide, gas leaks)
• One system to maintain instead of two
• Simplified maintenance plan — one tune-up protocol covers both heating and cooling

Lower operating costs in the desert climate

Modern heat pumps with SEER2 ratings of 18 or higher use 30-50% less electricity for cooling than the 10-12 SEER units installed in most Las Vegas homes built before 2015. On a 115-degree day, that efficiency difference translates to real dollars on your NV Energy bill.

A typical Las Vegas household spends $250-$400 per month on electricity during the summer. Upgrading from a 10-SEER AC to an 18+ SEER2 heat pump can reduce that summer bill by $75-$200 per month. Over a full summer (June through September), that is $300-$800 in savings. Over the 15-20 year lifespan of a heat pump, the cumulative energy savings can exceed $10,000.

The dry heat actually helps

Las Vegas humidity levels are among the lowest in the country. Heat pumps are more efficient in dry air because they spend less energy on dehumidification and more on actual temperature reduction. In humid cities like Houston or Miami, a heat pump spends a significant portion of its cooling capacity wringing moisture out of the air before it can lower the temperature. In Las Vegas, almost all of the unit's cooling capacity goes directly to temperature reduction. This is another reason heat pump efficiency ratings measured in the Southwest tend to exceed national averages.

What Happened to the 25C Tax Credit?

If you have been researching heat pump rebates, you have almost certainly encountered references to the "25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit." You may have seen HVAC companies advertising $2,000 in federal tax credits for heat pump installations. Here is the current reality: the 25C tax credit expired on December 31, 2025, and is not available for any equipment installed in 2026 or beyond.

How the 25C credit ended

The 25C credit was part of the Inflation Reduction Act, initially set to run through 2032. However, Congress terminated it early through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which repealed the credit effective December 31, 2025. Homeowners who installed qualifying equipment before that date can still claim the credit on their 2025 tax returns, but no new claims are possible for 2026 installations.

This caught many homeowners and even some contractors off guard. Through late 2025, the expectation was that the 25C credit would continue for years. Its early termination left a gap in federal incentives that HEAR is designed to fill — though on a different timeline and through a different mechanism.

Why HEAR is actually better for most qualifying homeowners

Despite the loss of 25C, qualifying households may end up with a better deal under HEAR:

Feature	25C Tax Credit (Expired)	HEAR Rebate (Coming to Nevada)
Maximum for heat pump	$2,000/year	Up to $8,000 (one-time)
How you receive it	Reduce tax liability at filing	Discount at point of sale
Income eligibility	No income limit	Below 150% AMI only
Requires tax liability	Yes (nonrefundable credit)	No
Wait time for money	Months (until tax filing)	Instant (at purchase)
Annual cap	$2,000/year	$14,000 total (low-income)
Contractor requirement	Any licensed contractor	Registered program contractor

The most significant improvement is the amount. The 25C credit maxed out at $2,000 per year for a heat pump. HEAR offers up to $8,000 — four times as much — in a single transaction. For a low-income household in Las Vegas, that is the difference between affording a modern heat pump and continuing to run a 20-year-old, inefficient system that costs $200 extra per month in electricity.

The trade-off is eligibility. The 25C credit had no income limit — anyone who installed a qualifying heat pump could claim it. HEAR is restricted to households below 150% AMI. Higher-income households lost their federal incentive entirely when 25C expired and do not qualify for HEAR. For these households, NV Energy PowerShift is now the only rebate available.

How to Prepare Right Now (Before the Program Launches)?

Even though HEAR is not yet accepting applications in Nevada, there are concrete steps you can take today to position yourself for maximum savings when the program launches.

1. Get a home energy assessment

Understanding your current system's condition, your home's energy consumption, and your cooling and heating needs is the foundation of a smart upgrade decision. A professional assessment includes:

• Manual J load calculation (determines what size heat pump your home needs)
• Ductwork inspection (identifies leaks, damage, or undersized ducts)
• Electrical panel assessment (determines if an upgrade is needed for a heat pump)
• Current energy usage analysis (establishes your baseline for savings comparison)
• Equipment condition evaluation (helps you decide whether to replace now or wait)

This assessment is free when you call The Cooling Company at (702) 567-0707. It is the same assessment that will be required when you apply for HEAR — getting it done now means you are ready to move quickly when the program opens.

2. Get quotes from licensed HVAC contractors

Obtain written quotes from two or three licensed C-21 contractors. Ask each contractor specifically about:

• Their plan to register for the HEAR program when it launches
• ENERGY STAR certified equipment options for your home
• Current NV Energy PowerShift rebate amounts for the proposed equipment
• Whether the quote includes all materials, labor, permits, and system commissioning
• Financing options and monthly payment estimates with and without rebates

Having quotes in hand means you can make a decision within days of the HEAR launch rather than spending weeks in the quote-and-compare phase while program funds are being drawn down. HEAR funding is finite — Nevada's $47.9 million will serve a limited number of households, and early applicants have the best chance of receiving full rebates.

3. Claim your NV Energy PowerShift rebate now (if your system needs replacement)

If your current system is more than 12-15 years old, showing signs of failure, or costing you excessive energy bills, there is a strong argument for installing a heat pump now with PowerShift and potentially applying for HEAR retroactively later. Several states have included retroactive provisions in their HEAR programs, allowing homeowners who purchased qualifying equipment after a certain date to apply for rebates after the program launches.

We cannot guarantee Nevada will include a retroactive provision. But waiting for an uncertain launch date while running a failing system is often more expensive than acting now. A 15-year-old system replaced by a modern heat pump saves $600-$1,000 per year in energy costs. If you wait six months for HEAR, that is $300-$500 in unnecessary energy costs plus the risk of an emergency breakdown during summer.

Visit our rebates page for a current summary of all available incentives.

4. Document your current system

Before replacing anything, document what you have:

• Photograph the data plates on your outdoor condenser and indoor air handler/furnace
• Record the model number, serial number, and manufacture date
• Note the fuel type (gas, electric, or dual fuel)
• Save your last 12 months of NV Energy and Southwest Gas bills

This documentation may be required for your HEAR application to demonstrate that you are replacing existing equipment rather than installing in new construction. It also provides a clear before-and-after comparison of your energy costs.

5. Consider your income bracket

Take an honest look at your household income relative to the Area Median Income for Las Vegas. If you are clearly above 150% AMI, HEAR will not apply to you — focus your planning on NV Energy PowerShift and long-term energy savings. If you are near the 80% or 150% threshold, understanding which tier you fall into will determine the size of your rebate and how you structure your purchase.

Do not assume you do not qualify. Many Las Vegas households — particularly retirees, single-income families, and dual-income households with moderate wages — fall within the qualifying range. When HEAR launches, income verification will clarify your exact eligibility.

What Could Full Heat Pump Savings Look Like in Las Vegas?

Let us run the complete math for two realistic Las Vegas scenarios, combining HEAR, PowerShift, and ongoing energy savings.

Scenario A: Family of four, below 80% AMI, in North Las Vegas

Current system: 18-year-old 10-SEER central AC with 80% AFUE gas furnace. Summer electric bills average $380/month. Winter gas bills average $45/month. System needed a $1,200 repair last year and the compressor is showing signs of failure.

New system: 3-ton 18-SEER2 heat pump with matching air handler, smart thermostat, and attic insulation top-up.

Cost and Savings	Amount
Total installation cost	$18,000
HEAR rebate (heat pump, 100% tier)	-$8,000
HEAR rebate (insulation)	-$1,600
NV Energy PowerShift (income-qualified)	-$3,300
Out-of-pocket cost	$5,100
Estimated annual energy savings (electric + eliminated gas)	$1,100–$1,500
Payback period on out-of-pocket cost	3.5–4.5 years

After the payback period, this family saves $1,100-$1,500 every year for the remaining 11-16 years of the heat pump's lifespan. Over 15 years, cumulative energy savings could reach $16,500 to $22,500. For a family that was spending nearly $5,000 per year on summer electricity and winter gas, the heat pump reduces that by roughly 25-35%.

And this family paid just $5,100 out of pocket for an $18,000 system. That is 72% of the installation cost covered by rebates.

Scenario B: Couple, between 80-150% AMI, in Summerlin

Current system: 14-year-old 13-SEER central AC with 90% AFUE gas furnace. System is functional but approaching end of life. Summer electric bills average $310/month.

New system: 3.5-ton 20-SEER2 variable-speed heat pump with matched air handler.

Cost and Savings	Amount
Total installation cost	$21,000
HEAR rebate (heat pump, 50% tier, capped at household max)	-$7,000
NV Energy PowerShift (standard, premium tier)	-$1,940
Out-of-pocket cost	$12,060
Estimated annual energy savings (electric + eliminated gas)	$800–$1,200
Payback period on out-of-pocket cost	10–15 years

The moderate-income household still saves meaningfully — $8,940 in combined rebates, or 43% of the installation cost. The payback period is longer because of the higher out-of-pocket and more efficient existing system, but the household still benefits from lower monthly energy costs, the elimination of gas heating expenses, and a brand-new system with a full manufacturer's warranty.

With financing, the $12,060 out-of-pocket comes to approximately $150-$200 per month — often less than the increase in energy costs this couple would face by continuing to run their aging system through another summer.

The monthly picture after installation

For both scenarios, the monthly energy math tells the story:

• Old system summer electric bill: $310-$380/month
• New heat pump summer electric bill: $180-$260/month
• Monthly savings (summer): $100-$150
• Old system winter gas bill: $30-$60/month (furnace)
• New heat pump winter gas bill: $0 (no gas furnace)
• Monthly savings (winter): $30-$60

Over a full year, that adds up to $800-$1,500 in reduced utility costs. Every year. For the life of the system.

Frequently Asked Questions About HEEHR/HEAR in Nevada

Can I get the HEAR rebate if I already installed a heat pump in 2025?

As of March 2026, Nevada has not announced a retroactive provision for its HEAR program. Some states have allowed retroactive claims for equipment installed after a certain date, but Nevada's policy has not been confirmed. If you installed a qualifying heat pump in 2025, you may have been able to claim the 25C tax credit on your 2025 return. Contact the Nevada Governor's Office of Energy for updates on retroactive eligibility.

Do I need to use a specific brand of heat pump?

No. The HEAR program does not specify brands. Any heat pump that carries ENERGY STAR certification qualifies. This includes all major manufacturers available in the Las Vegas market. Your contractor should confirm ENERGY STAR certification for the specific model before installation.

Can I do the installation myself and claim the rebate?

No. HEAR requires installation by a registered, qualified contractor. DIY installations are not eligible. This is both a program requirement and a practical necessity — heat pump installation involves refrigerant handling (which requires EPA Section 608 certification), high-voltage electrical work, and system commissioning that must be performed by licensed professionals.

Is there a deadline to use HEAR funds?

Yes, but the exact timeline depends on Nevada's program design and how quickly the $47.9 million allocation is drawn down. Federal guidelines require states to distribute all HEAR funds within a set period. Once the funds are exhausted, the program ends for that state unless additional funding is allocated. This is why early preparation matters — the households that are ready to act when the program launches will have the best chance of receiving full rebates.

Can renters qualify for HEAR rebates?

The federal program allows renters to participate in certain circumstances, particularly for appliances like electric stoves and dryers. For major equipment like heat pumps, the property owner typically needs to be involved because the equipment is permanently installed. Nevada's specific rules for renter participation will be defined when the program launches.

What if my home needs an electrical panel upgrade to support a heat pump?

This is actually an ideal scenario for HEAR. You can claim up to $8,000 for the heat pump and up to $4,000 for the electrical panel upgrade under the same application, up to your household cap. For a low-income household, this means up to $12,000 in combined rebates for a heat pump plus panel upgrade — covering a significant portion of what is often a $22,000-$28,000 total project.

What The Cooling Company Is Doing to Prepare

We are not waiting for the program to launch to start preparing. Here is what The Cooling Company is doing right now:

• Monitoring the GOE and Everblue rollout timeline — We are in direct communication with industry associations tracking Nevada's HEAR implementation. We will know about contractor registration before it is widely announced.
• Training our team on HEAR eligibility and documentation — When the program launches, our technicians and comfort advisors will be prepared to walk you through income verification, equipment selection, and rebate calculation on your first visit.
• Stocking ENERGY STAR certified equipment — Every heat pump we install already meets or exceeds ENERGY STAR requirements. When HEAR launches, our inventory is already compliant.
• Offering free consultations now — If you are considering a heat pump, schedule your assessment today. When HEAR opens, you will have a quote in hand and can move immediately.

Ready to Explore Your Heat Pump Options?

The HEAR program represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Las Vegas homeowners to upgrade to high-efficiency heat pump systems at a fraction of the normal cost. Whether you qualify for the maximum $8,000 federal rebate, plan to stack with NV Energy PowerShift, or simply want to start saving on energy costs now, the first step is the same: a professional home assessment.

The Cooling Company provides free in-home heat pump consultations across all of Southern Nevada — Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, Summerlin, Green Valley, Enterprise, Centennial Hills, and every community in the valley.

Call (702) 567-0707 to schedule your free assessment. We will evaluate your home, recommend the right heat pump system, show you exactly which rebates you qualify for today, and help you prepare for HEAR when it launches.

You can also visit our heat pump installation page for detailed information on equipment options and pricing, or check our rebates page for a current summary of every available incentive in Southern Nevada.

The rebate dollars are coming. The only question is whether you will be ready to claim them.

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