The end of summer might seem like an odd time to think about heating and cooling, but for Philadelphia-area homeowners, it's actually one of the best moments to replace an aging air conditioner or upgrade to a high-efficiency heat pump. The 2026 EAP Fall HVAC Rebate Program is currently offering significant savings, and qualifying PECO customers may be able to stack a separate utility rebate on top. However, these savings won't last forever. The program has firm deadlines, strict equipment requirements, and a limited list of participating brands. If your AC struggled through another humid Philly summer—or you're looking for a more efficient way to heat your home before winter—now is the time to review your options.
How much can you save? The Electrical Association of Philadelphia (EAP) offers instant rebates on complete, qualifying high-efficiency HVAC systems installed through a participating contractor. Depending on the system and efficiency rating, homeowners can save between $200 and $1,650. For heat pumps, rebates range from $500 for a Tier 1 system (15.2+ SEER2, 11.0 EER2, and 7.8 HSPF2) up to $1,400 for a Tier 3 system (18.0+ SEER2, 11.0 EER2, and 7.8 HSPF2). An additional $250 is available for qualifying dual-fuel or hybrid heat pump installations. Central air conditioning rebates go from $500 for Tier 1 (15.2+ SEER2 and 12.0 EER2) to $1,200 for Tier 3 (18.0+ SEER2 and 12.0 EER2). Ductless mini-split heat pumps qualify for $250 per single-zone system or $200 per zone for multi-zone systems, provided they meet 17.0 SEER2, 12.0 EER2, and 8.5 HSPF2.
The deadlines are crucial. The customer contract must be signed between August 3 and November 13, 2026. The qualifying 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 start shopping could leave too little time to select qualifying equipment, schedule the installation, and complete the paperwork. Equipment availability can also tighten as the heating season approaches.
Can EAP and PECO rebates be combined? Yes, an eligible EAP rebate may be combined with a qualifying PECO heating and cooling rebate. The programs are separate, so the equipment must meet the requirements of each offer. EAP savings appear as an instant discount on the contractor's invoice. A PECO rebate generally requires a separate application and proof that the customer, equipment, and installation qualify under PECO's current terms. PECO rebate amounts and requirements can change, so eligibility should be confirmed before ordering equipment. One important limitation: EAP states that its rebate cannot be combined with a manufacturer rebate or discount.
What about federal tax credits? No federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit is available for residential HVAC equipment placed in service in 2026. The Section 25C credit previously offered up to $2,000 for qualifying heat pumps and up to $600 per qualifying central AC, furnace, or boiler, but the IRS states that the credit ended for property placed in service after December 31, 2025. Homeowners who completed a qualifying installation in 2025 may still claim the credit on their 2025 federal tax return if they meet all IRS requirements. HVAC Philly does not provide tax advice, so homeowners should consult a qualified tax professional.
Why is the end of summer a smart time to upgrade? You have time to compare systems, verify efficiency ratings, and choose equipment based on your home rather than making a rushed decision after a breakdown. A new high-efficiency system may also help with problems that became obvious over the summer, including an AC that ran constantly but never made upstairs bedrooms comfortable, rising electric bills, frequent repairs, uneven temperatures in a rowhome, or a need for heating and cooling in an addition without ductwork. For some homes, a heat pump can provide efficient cooling and heating from one system. Others may be better suited to central AC, a dual-fuel heat pump, or ductless mini-splits.
How to claim an EAP rebate through HVAC Philly: Schedule an in-home evaluation, review your home's needs, select an eligible complete system from a participating brand, sign the contract within the program window, and HVAC Philly applies the eligible EAP rebate directly to your invoice. Complete the installation by the deadline and submit any separate PECO rebate application. Not every high-efficiency system qualifies, and the highest rebate is not automatically the best equipment choice for every home. We will explain the efficiency ratings, available savings, and installed cost clearly so you can compare the real numbers.
Don't let the rebate window close. If your air conditioner barely made it through summer, waiting for a complete breakdown may cost you the opportunity to use the fall rebate. The EAP contract deadline is November 13, 2026, and installations must be completed by November 27, 2026. Call 215.725.6111 or book an appointment with HVAC Philly to check your home, review qualifying systems, and find out which EAP and PECO rebates may apply. We provide HVAC installation throughout Philadelphia, Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Delaware County.
