As summer draws to a close, Philadelphia homeowners have a limited window to take advantage of the 2026 EAP Fall HVAC Rebate Program, which offers significant savings on qualifying high-efficiency heating and cooling systems. The Electrical Association of Philadelphia (EAP) provides instant rebates ranging from $200 to $1,650 for complete installations that meet specific efficiency standards. For those who also receive utility service from PECO, an additional rebate may be available, but the programs operate separately and have distinct requirements.
The rebate amounts vary by system type and efficiency tier. For heat pumps, Tier 1 offers $500 for systems with 15.2+ SEER2, 11.0 EER2, and 7.8 HSPF2; Tier 2 provides $1,000 for 16.0+ SEER2, 11.0 EER2, and 7.8 HSPF2; and Tier 3 grants $1,400 for 18.0+ SEER2, 11.0 EER2, and 7.8 HSPF2. An extra $250 is available for dual-fuel or hybrid heat pump installations that combine an electric heat pump with a furnace. Central air conditioning rebates follow a similar structure, with $500 for 15.2+ SEER2 and 12.0 EER2, $900 for 16.5+ SEER2 and 12.0 EER2, and $1,200 for 18.0+ SEER2 and 12.0 EER2. Ductless mini-split heat pumps qualify for $250 for a single-zone system or $200 per zone for multi-zone systems, provided they meet 17.0 SEER2, 12.0 EER2, and 8.5 HSPF2.
Timing is critical. The customer contract must be signed between August 3 and November 13, 2026, the system must be installed by November 27, 2026, and EAP must receive the completed claim by December 4, 2026. Waiting until the first cold night to begin shopping could leave insufficient time to select qualifying equipment, schedule installation, and complete paperwork. Equipment availability may also tighten as the heating season approaches.
Homeowners may wonder if they can combine EAP rebates with PECO rebates. Yes, they can be combined if the equipment meets the criteria for both programs. However, the EAP rebate is applied as an instant discount on the contractor's invoice, while a PECO rebate typically requires a separate application. It is important to note that the EAP rebate cannot be combined with manufacturer rebates or discounts, so comparing all available offers is essential.
One significant change for 2026 is the expiration of the federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C). According to the IRS, this credit, which previously offered up to $2,000 for heat pumps and up to $600 for central AC, furnaces, or boilers, is no longer available for equipment placed in service after December 31, 2025. Homeowners who installed qualifying systems in 2025 may still claim the credit on their 2025 tax return if they meet all requirements, but for 2026 installations, the EAP and PECO rebates are the primary incentives.
Replacing an aging HVAC system before fall offers practical advantages. Homeowners have time to compare systems, verify efficiency ratings, and make informed decisions rather than rushing after a breakdown. Common issues that prompt upgrades include AC units that run constantly but fail to cool upstairs rooms, rising energy bills, frequent repairs, uneven temperatures, and systems nearing the end of their service lives. For some homes, a heat pump provides efficient cooling and heating in one system, while others may benefit from central AC, a dual-fuel heat pump, or ductless mini-splits.
HVAC Philly, a participating contractor, simplifies the rebate process. Homeowners can schedule an in-home evaluation, review qualifying equipment options, and sign a contract within the program window. The eligible EAP rebate is applied directly to the invoice, and HVAC Philly assists with any separate PECO rebate applications. With the contract deadline of November 13, 2026, and installation deadline of November 27, 2026, acting now is crucial to secure these savings.
