If you're wondering whether Georgia's energy rebate programs can help you save on ductless mini-split heat pump systems, you're in luck.
Depending on your household income and the specifics of your installation, it's possible to save up to $8,000 when you install a new ductless mini-split heat pump system.
The amount you can save depends on a host of different factors, so let's dig into the details!
When do mini-splits qualify for Georgia energy rebates?
Ductless mini-split heat pumps are eligible for rebate savings via the Georgia Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) program. This program rewards Georgia homeowners for replacing gas appliances with energy-efficient electric ones. Additional savings via HEAR is available for improvements that aren't specifically related to electrification, such as sealing air gaps and adding insulation.
While homeowners don't typically replace central heating and AC systems with ductless mini-splits, these systems still qualify for HEAR rebates!
However, they only qualify when you:
- Add a mini-split system to an addition or renovation, or
- Replace a conventional gas furnace with a mini-split heat pump (not common)
- Install an ENERGY STAR-certified mini-split system
New installations do not qualify for a HEAR rebate if you're replacing an existing mini-split or electric heating system with a ductless mini-split.
Thankfully, installing a mini-split for supplemental HVAC or as part of an addition or renovation is the most common use case for these systems! In other words, most new mini-split installations will qualify.
But wait! You still have to be eligible based on income.
Georgia HEAR rebates and mini-splits: income eligibility
To receive a HEAR rebate for your new ductless mini-split installation, you need to meet income criteria. Rebates are available to homeowners who earn less than 150% of area median income, or AMI.
Among homeowners who meet this requirement, there are two tiers:
- Households earning less than or equal to 80% of AMI qualify for a rebate of up to 100% of the cost of a new mini-split.
- Households earning between 80% and 150% of AMI qualify for a rebate of up to 50% of the cost of a mini-split heat pump.
The HEAR program also caps the rebate amount for different eligible upgrades. For new heat pump installations, including ductless mini-splits, the cap is $8,000.
Examples of Georgia rebate savings for mini-split heat pump systems
Given that the average cost of a new mini-split installation is $9,000, saving $8,000 is a huge deal!
Consider a homeowner earning less than 80% of AMI who wants a supplemental AC and heating for an uncomfortable upstairs area. Normally, a $9,000 heating and cooling system would be cost prohibitive.
But with the HEAR rebate, this homeowner could get the system for just $1,000. That's… remarkable to say the least!
Here's another example. Say the AMI for your community is $95,000 and your household earns $120,000 per year. In this scenario, you meet income criteria for the second tier of HEAR savings: 50% of the cost up to $8,000.
For this middle-income household, a new $9K mini-split heat pump would only cost $4,500-an amazing price for a super efficient heating and cooling system!
Why choose PV for your ductless mini-split installation
At PV, we're proud to be an approved contractor for Georgia's energy rebate programs. Plus, we're also a Carrier Ductless Contractor, meaning our team is certified by Carrier to install these unique, ultra-efficient heating and cooling systems.
We've also been planning for, installing, and consulting on mini-split HVAC systems since almost the beginning of the company! Our team has received special training on ductless mini-split systems and continues to receive continuing education about mini-split technology, its applications, and how to ensure customers receive the best possible installation.
When you choose us, you're getting a team of licensed, seasoned local HVAC experts who always prioritize your long-term comfort. It's why we always perform Manual J load calculations before every installation-we want you to have an HVAC system that performs at the highest level, for as long as possible!
To find out how much you can save on a new mini-split system with the Georgia HEAR program, call (404) 798-9672 or contact a PV Customer Advocate today!
