2026 Mass Save Rebates Changes and New Eligibility Rules

Living in Burlington, MA means facing a wide variety of seasonal weather extremes. From frigid winters that require reliable heating to muggy summer days when cooling becomes a necessity, investing in energy-efficient HVAC solutions is essential. For many homeowners in Burlington, heat pumps have emerged as a smart, eco-conscious upgrade. However, the landscape of rebates and financial incentives is shifting. Beginning in 2026, the Mass Save® program is undergoing major changes that impact how much you can save on installing a new heat pump system—both in terms of dollar amounts and eligibility requirements.

If you're a homeowner in Burlington looking to install or upgrade to a cleaner, all-electric heat pump system, it's critical to understand how the new rules and reduced rebates affect your home upgrade plans.

“Homeowners in Burlington should prioritize 2025 upgrades if possible—the 2026 Mass Save changes reduce rebates by up to $1,500 per household.”

Understanding the 2026 Mass Save® Rebate Reductions

In an effort to continue driving the transition to efficient home heating and cooling while aligning with updated environmental standards, Mass Save® has announced a reduction in rebate amounts for 2026. These changes apply even if you’re already planning your installation—timing now matters more than ever.

Rebate Value Drops: What You Need to Know

As of 2026, rebate amounts have been reduced by as much as $1,500 compared to 2025 values. This may be a surprise to homeowners who assumed Mass Save® incentives would remain high as part of Massachusetts’ electrification goals. 

Here’s what’s new in 2026:

• Whole-Home Heat Pump Rebates drop from $10,000 to $8,500
• Partial-Home Heat Pump Rebates remain capped at $8,500 total but with lower per-ton rates
• Basic heat pump installations now receive up to $2,500
• Income-Eligible homeowners may still qualify for up to $16,000 or pay nothing out-of-pocket through Turnkey Services

New Rebate Structure Overview

If you're comparing your 2025 options to what’s available in 2026, here’s a simplified look at what rebate categories look like now:

• Whole-Home: $2,650 per ton, up to $8,500
• Partial-Home: $1,125 per ton, up to $8,500
• Basic Installation: $250 per ton, up to $2,500
• Enhanced Incentives: Up to $16,000 for qualified low-income households

These declining incentives reflect a broader trend: the highest rebates for early adopters are slowly tapering off to motivate quicker participation. That makes it vital for Burlington homeowners to assess their heat pump installation timing now.

“Massachusetts is shifting to performance-focused incentives. For 2026, it's not just about how efficient your heat pump is—but what refrigerant it uses.”

New Eligibility Rules for Mass Save® Heat Pump Rebates in 2026

Perhaps the most critical update for 2026 isn’t just the dollar value—it’s the stricter eligibility requirements that can completely disqualify certain systems and installation types.

Low GWP Refrigerants Now Required

Heat pumps using traditional R-410A refrigerants are no longer eligible for Mass Save® rebates starting in 2026. Now, only systems using approved low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants will qualify. This change aligns with global regulations phasing out high-impact refrigerants and emphasizes the state’s commitment to climate initiatives.

If you're planning an installation or upgrade in 2026, you'll need to work with a knowledgeable contractor who is up to date with:

• Approved brands and models using low-GWP refrigerants
• Updated technology and proper system sizing for your home
• Compliance paperwork to ensure rebate qualification through Mass Save®

For more information, visit the official Mass Save page on air source heat pump incentives

Whole vs. Partial Home Requirements

Mass Save® places different rules on whole-home and partial-home system installations, affecting how much of a rebate your project can receive. 

• Whole-home systems must heat 100% of the primary living space and replace ALL fossil fuel systems to receive the higher rebate.
• Partial-home installations can supplement existing systems like oil, propane, or gas, but you’ll receive a lower rebate amount per ton.
• Basic partial-home setups with no significant efficiency upgrades will receive the lowest rebate category—$250 per ton, maxing out at $2,500.

Understanding whether your system qualifies as whole- or partial-home is essential for calculating potential incentive savings accurately.

Burlington’s Local Climate and Home Designs Matter

Burlington homeowners need heating systems that can withstand Massachusetts’ sub-zero temperatures and air conditioning that handles humid summer days. The type of HVAC system you choose has a direct impact on your comfort, utility bills, and now—your eligibility for incentives.

Why Heat Pumps Remain a Top Choice for Burlington

Despite new limitations in incentives, heat pumps are still one of the most cost-effective, energy-efficient options for homes in Greater Boston. Here’s why:

• They provide both heating and cooling in one system
• New heat pump models are designed for cold-climate functionality—even in Burlington’s harsh winters
• Eligible systems dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions
• Efficient operation reduces monthly energy costs

Many older homes in Burlington were built decades ago and contain ductwork suited to traditional heating systems. Fortunately, air-source ducted and ductless (mini-split) heat pumps are flexible enough to adapt to most home types.

Energy-Saving Tips for Typical Burlington MA Homes

If you're upgrading your HVAC system in Burlington, consider these tips to get the most out of your investment:

• Seal leaks in older attics or crawlspaces to reduce heat loss
• Upgrade insulation to meet or exceed Mass Save® requirements
• Install a programmable thermostat for optimal efficiency
• Use Winter Reduced Rate Programs from utility providers to lower utility bills during peak use

“For homes built before 1970 in Burlington—especially ranches and split-levels—heat pumps provide an all-electric upgrade option that pays off over time.”

Timing is Critical: Why 2026 May Not Be Your Best Bet

One of the biggest takeaways from the 2026 Mass Save® updates is this: it pays to act sooner rather than later. Both rebates and tax credits are shrinking.

No More Federal Tax Credits for Heat Pumps

As of 2026, the federal government has rolled back tax credits specifically for air-source heat pump installations. This creates a double disadvantage for those waiting until 2026 to upgrade: lower state-level rebates and no federal tax advantage.

Homeowners who installed in 2025 could qualify for:

• Higher Mass Save® rebates (up to $10,000)
• Potential federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act
• Access to enhanced low-income incentives or free turnkey services

Waiting beyond 2025 will typically result in a higher out-of-pocket cost—even if installation costs remain the same.

Rebate Reduction Trend to Continue

Mass Save® has publicly indicated that rebates are being reduced year over year—not raised. This is a clear sign that homeowners looking for financial incentives need to act quickly.

If you're planning a renovation, system replacement, or energy-efficiency upgrade for your Burlington home, scheduling it in 2025 may be the best financial move.

Utility-Supported Winter Rates Still Beneficial

Many Burlington residents receive their electricity through utilities that offer winter-rate programs. These special rates incentivize heat pump and electric heating system owners to draw energy during off-peak hours, saving additional money.

How Winter Rate Programs Work

If your new system qualifies, energy providers may offer:

• Lower per-kWh pricing during winter months
• Discounts for load-shifting during peak usage times
• Smart thermostat integration rebates and grid optimization support

These programs are still available regardless of the Mass Save® rebate tier your system qualifies for, making them an important cost-saving tool.

Combine Local and State Programs for Best Savings

By stacking Mass Save® incentives with utility rate offers, homeowners in Burlington can reduce their setup costs and their ongoing monthly expenses. Work with a contractor familiar with both programs to ensure you meet all technical and performance requirements.

Final Thoughts: What Burlington Homeowners Should Prioritize

While 2026 Mass Save® rebates still offer meaningful financial support for adopting eco-friendly HVAC systems, the window for maximum savings is closing fast for homeowners in Burlington. With long-standing winters, prevalent older housing stock, and increasing electrification incentives, it makes practical and financial sense to consider upgrading to a heat pump sooner rather than later.

If you already use oil, propane, or electric resistance heating—or you’re planning a new energy-efficient home build—understanding these updated rules is essential to planning a cost-effective upgrade. Always work with a contractor who stays informed about local programs, ensures refrigerant compliance, and positions your household to qualify for the best rebates available.

To learn the latest on eligibility, approved equipment, and heat pump installation guidance, see the official Mass Save rebate page on air source heat pumps.