Heat pumps in Massachusetts
One system heats and cools. Mass Save pays a rebate by system size when a network installer does the job and your home qualifies.
- Checked: November 3, 2026
The rules that decide your rebate
- 1
A network installer
The system must be installed by a contractor in the Mass Save Heat Pump Installer Network.
- 2
The house passes the weatherization test
Built in 2000 or later, or a Home Energy Assessment found under $1,000 of recommended work, or the recommendations since 2013 are done.
- 3
You replace oil, propane or electric heat
Or natural gas where a Mass Save gas sponsor serves you. That is what the rebates are for.
- 4
A photo of each outdoor unit
From October 1, 2026 the application needs a photo of each outdoor unit nameplate.
- 5
Done by the deadline
2026 installs must be done by December 31, 2026, with paperwork received by February 28, 2027.
Mass Save's whole-home heat pump rebate is $2,650 per ton through Dec 31, 2026, then $2,350 per ton from Jan 1, 2027. Source: Mass Save, air source heat pumps, checked November 6, 2026.
How it works
An air source heat pump pulls heat from the outside air and moves it indoors. In summer it runs the other way and cools. Mass Save describes both ducted systems and ductless mini-splits.
The 2026 and 2027 Mass Save rebates
| Type | Installed in 2026 | Installed from Jan 1, 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Whole-home The heat pump is the only heating and cooling system. | $2,650 per ton, up to $8,500 | $2,350 per ton, up to $7,500 |
| Partial-home You keep a boiler or furnace alongside it. | $1,125 per ton, up to $8,500 | $1,000 per ton, up to $7,500 |
| Basic Not replacing oil, propane, gas or electric resistance heat. | $250 per ton, up to $2,500 | See Mass Save |
Mass Save also lists income-based enhanced incentives of up to $16,000, or no cost through its turnkey service, for eligible households that replace oil, propane or electric resistance heat. Check eligibility on Mass Save.
The rules that trip people up
- Installer. The system must be installed by a contractor in the Mass Save Heat Pump Installer Network.
- Whole-home needs weatherization. The home was built in 2000 or later, or a Home Energy Assessment found under $1,000 of recommended work, or the recommendations made since 2013 are done. Otherwise the partial-home amounts may apply.
- What you replace. Rebates are for oil, propane or electric resistance heat where your electric account is with Cape Light Compact, Eversource, National Grid or Unitil, or natural gas where a Mass Save gas sponsor serves you.
- Serial numbers. From October 1, 2026 the application needs a photo of each outdoor unit's nameplate.
- Timing. 2026 installs must be done by December 31, 2026, with paperwork received by February 28, 2027. Mass Save asks for about eight weeks to process.
Financing
Mass Save's 0% HEAT Loan can cover up to $25,000 of qualified improvements.
More: the 2027 rebate change, heat pump or oil boiler, gas furnace to heat pump and heat pump maintenance.
Common questions
Do heat pumps work in a Massachusetts winter?
Mass Save requires ENERGY STAR Cold Climate equipment for its rebates. Mass Save also notes that a heat pump can feel different from an oil or electric baseboard system, and has a page on what to expect.
Will my electric bill go up?
Likely, because the heat pump runs on electricity. Mass Save says many customers offset that by cutting oil or propane costs. Eligible customers may qualify for a Seasonal Heat Pump Rate, which is lower from November through April.
Ducted or ductless?
Both exist. Ductless units (mini-splits) suit homes with no ductwork. Ducted systems use the ducts you have.
Can I get a rebate if I already have a heat pump?
Replacing an existing heat pump with a new one is not eligible for the partial-home or whole-home rebate, but may qualify for the basic rebate. Ask Mass Save before you start.
Ready to send photos?
A photo of the panel and one of the boiler or furnace is enough to start. We look at it and get back to you.
Send photos