What to Know About the Latest Tax Credits and Rebates for High-Efficiency HVAC Upgrades

Bruni & Campisi, Inc. is proud to help homeowners across Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, and Fairfield Counties make smart, energy-efficient choices that keep their homes comfortable and their costs low. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your heating or cooling system, there’s never been a better time — thanks to an expanded range of federal and state incentives for high-efficiency HVAC equipment.

Understanding these programs can feel overwhelming, so we’ve broken it down clearly: what’s available, who qualifies, and how Bruni & Campisi can help you maximize every dollar of savings.

Why Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems Matter

Modern high-efficiency HVAC systems use advanced technology to provide the same (or better) comfort while consuming significantly less energy. Compared to older furnaces or air conditioners, they can cut energy use by 20–40%, reducing both your utility bills and your home’s carbon footprint.

These upgrades also make your home eligible for valuable tax credits and rebates under federal, state, and utility programs — part of a nationwide effort to encourage homeowners to adopt more sustainable technology.

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA): A Game Changer for Homeowners

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) offers some of the most generous energy incentives ever introduced in the United States. The IRA includes multiple programs that apply directly to homeowners investing in high-efficiency HVAC systems, heat pumps, and weatherization upgrades.

Here are the two key programs you should know:

1. The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C)

• Provides a 30% federal tax credit (not a deduction) on eligible energy-saving home improvements.
  
• Effective through 2032.
  
• Annual cap: $1,200, but HVAC-specific systems such as heat pumps may qualify for up to $2,000 in credits per year.
  

Eligible Bruni & Campisi services include:

• Heat pump installations (air-source or geothermal)
  
• High-efficiency central AC replacements
  
• ENERGY STAR-rated furnaces and boilers
  
• Air-sealing and insulation projects performed in tandem with HVAC upgrades
  

2. The High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Program

• Designed primarily for low- to moderate-income households.
  
• Provides point-of-sale rebates for qualifying energy-efficient equipment — meaning you receive savings immediately rather than waiting for tax season.
  
• Potential rebate amounts include:
  
  • Up to $8,000 for a heat pump installation
    
  • Up to $1,750 for a heat pump water heater
    
  • Up to $4,000 for electrical upgrades (e.g., new panels or wiring)
    

These programs can often be stacked with local and utility rebates for even greater savings.

State and Utility Rebates in New York & Connecticut

Beyond the federal incentives, both New York and Connecticut have active programs encouraging high-efficiency HVAC adoption.

New York State Incentives

• Con Edison Smart Usage Rewards: Rebates for ENERGY STAR heat pumps, smart thermostats, and efficient central AC systems.
  
• NY SERDA Clean Heat Program: Offers significant rebates — often $1,000 – $9,000 — for air-source or ground-source (geothermal) heat pump installations.
  
• National Grid & Central Hudson Rebates: Cash incentives for upgrading older boilers, furnaces, or water heaters to high-efficiency models.
  

Connecticut Incentives

• Energize CT: Provides rebates of up to $15,000 for qualified geothermal systems and up to $2,000 for ductless heat pumps.
  
• Utility Rebate Coordination: Local electric and gas providers such as Eversource and United Illuminating offer their own HVAC-specific rebates that can be combined with Energize CT benefits.
  

Bruni & Campisi’s team works closely with these programs to ensure your installation qualifies for the maximum return available in your region.

High-Efficiency Systems That Qualify

Not every HVAC upgrade meets the efficiency thresholds for credits and rebates. Here’s a quick overview of systems that typically do:

Because efficiency standards change periodically, Bruni & Campisi’s technicians verify that every system we install meets or exceeds the most current requirements for your area.

How to Claim Your Tax Credit

Claiming your HVAC tax credit is straightforward once you have the right documentation. Here’s how the process works:

1. Confirm Eligibility — Your Bruni & Campisi technician will verify that your new system qualifies.
   
2. Save Documentation — Keep manufacturer certification statements and itemized invoices from the installation.
   
3. File IRS Form 5695 — Include the form with your federal tax return to claim the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit.
   
4. Receive Your Credit — Credits reduce your tax liability dollar-for-dollar, directly lowering what you owe.
   

For rebates, your Bruni & Campisi representative can assist with utility submission forms or online portals to make sure your rebate is processed promptly.

Example: Real-World Savings

A homeowner in Westchester County replaced an older 10-SEER central air conditioner with a variable-speed 18-SEER heat pump installed by Bruni & Campisi.

• Federal Credit (IRA): $2,000
  
• NY SERDA Rebate: $3,000
  
• Utility Rebate: $500
  
• Total Incentives: $5,500 in savings
  

On top of that, the new system reduced monthly utility costs by nearly 30% — savings that continue every season.

Why Work with a Certified Installer

Rebates and credits often require installation by a licensed and certified contractor to ensure compliance with safety and efficiency standards. Bruni & Campisi’s technicians are EPA-certified, NATE-trained, and familiar with every documentation requirement.

We handle the details — from product selection and efficiency verification to rebate applications and warranty registration — so you can enjoy the benefits without the paperwork headaches.

Additional Ways to Maximize Your Savings

1. Bundle Improvements – Combine HVAC upgrades with insulation or air-sealing projects for added comfort and qualification under the IRA’s annual credit limits.
   
2. Add Smart Thermostats – Earn extra rebates while optimizing your system’s performance.
   
3. Schedule Seasonal Maintenance – Keep your new equipment operating at peak efficiency to maintain eligibility for warranty and rebate terms.
   
4. Monitor Energy Use – Smart thermostats and energy apps help track performance and prove energy savings over time.
   

When to Upgrade

The best time to consider upgrading is before your system fails. Planning ahead lets you research rebate programs, compare equipment options, and schedule your installation when technicians are readily available.

With utility incentives and federal credits scheduled to remain active through 2032, now is the ideal window to make a long-term investment in comfort, efficiency, and sustainability.

Let Bruni & Campisi Help You Save

For more than four decades, Bruni & Campisi has been guiding local homeowners through energy-efficient upgrades that truly pay off. From heat pumps and variable-speed systems to smart thermostats and electrical panel upgrades, we’ll help you choose the right combination for your home — and make sure you receive every available credit and rebate.

Call Bruni & Campisi today to schedule your high-efficiency HVAC consultation in Westchester or Fairfield County.
Our team will explain your options, handle the rebate paperwork, and deliver a system that saves you money from day one.

For over 40 years, Bruni & Campisi has provided trusted heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical services across New York and Connecticut. Contact us today to learn more about high-efficiency HVAC rebates and take the first step toward lower energy bills and greater year-round comfort.