🔋 Free 2026 bundle estimator
Whole-home comfort upgrade — stack the 25C + HEEHRA + state credits in one wizard.
HVAC + furnace + insulation in a single bundle. Maximizes the $3,200 federal 25C umbrella + HEEHRA point-of-sale rebate + state credits — incentives stack only when bundled in the same tax year.
Which state?
Federal credits are universal, but state credit + HEEHRA stack varies by state.
Common questions
Why bundle HVAC + furnace + insulation in the same tax year?
The federal 25C credit umbrella tops out at $1,200/yr for insulation, windows, doors, and HVAC equipment COMBINED — PLUS a separate $2,000 cap for heat pumps. So bundling a heat pump install ($2K credit) + attic insulation ($360 credit) + a home energy audit ($150 credit) in the same year nets you $2,510 in federal credits. Spread those across 2 years and you stay under the cap each year but pay 12-18 months of higher utility bills in the gap.
Does HEEHRA stack with the 25C credit?
Yes — HEEHRA is a point-of-sale rebate (reduces the invoice), 25C is a federal tax credit (reduces taxes you owe). They stack. Example: a $14,500 heat pump → $8,000 HEEHRA POS rebate (income-qualified) → invoice net of $6,500 → 30% × $6,500 = $1,950 federal 25C credit. Net after both: $4,550 out-of-pocket. (HEEHRA is only LIVE in some states — check the rebate lookup tool.)
Should I get an energy audit first?
If your house is older than 1995, yes — a Manual J + blower-door test ($300-$600) often shifts your HVAC sizing down by 25-40%, saving more than the audit cost. The $150 federal 25C bonus credit for the audit makes it functionally a $150-$450 net expense. Many states offer free utility audits — check yours at the rebate lookup tool below.
What's the highest-ROI single project to start with?
Attic insulation, basically every time. Typical 3-5 year payback before credits, 1-3 year after. It also right-sizes your future HVAC system — most existing HVAC equipment is 25-40% oversized because the home was previously under-insulated. Do insulation first, THEN replace HVAC, and you'll buy a smaller (cheaper, more comfortable) system.
Do these incentives apply if I'm a renter?
Most don't — 25C is non-refundable and tied to the homeowner's tax return. HEEHRA POS rebates can apply to renters in some states IF the landlord agrees and signs the paperwork. Utility rebates often DO apply to renters since they're tied to the metered account, not the property deed.