2026 Mass Save Heat Pump Rebates and Program Updates

Living in Medway, MA, homeowners are no strangers to New England’s demanding climate—with frigid winters and increasingly warm summers, staying comfortable at home while keeping energy costs low is always a priority. That’s why heat pumps are becoming an essential part of home upgrades in Medway. Not only do they provide heating and cooling in one efficient system, but thanks to ongoing rebates through the Mass Save® program, upgrading has become significantly more affordable—especially when you act before further changes are made in 2026 and beyond.

SumZero Energy Systems, based in Medway, specializes in helping local residents maximize these programs before they fade. With direct access to evolving Mass Save rebates and updated installation guidelines, we’re your trusted partner for future-focused home energy solutions.

“In Medway, where winter lows dip well below freezing, an efficient heat pump makes a tangible difference—not just in comfort, but in your monthly costs. The shift to newer, qualified systems means residents need up-to-date information fast.” 

What’s New in 2026 for Mass Save® Heat Pump Rebates?

Mass Save’s lineup of heat pump rebates remains a key opportunity for homeowners—but in 2026, the rules and amounts have changed. It’s more important than ever to understand the latest rebate categories and act before further reductions apply in coming years.

Updated Rebate Amounts — Lower Than in 2025

As of 2026, the top rebates have been reduced by $1,500 from their 2025 values, with the maximum incentive now capped at $8,500, down from $10,000.

Mass Save Heat Pump Rebate Options for 2026:

• Whole-Home: $2,650 per ton (up to $8,500)
• Partial-Home: $1,125 per ton (up to $8,500)
• Basic: $250 per ton (up to $2,500)
• Income-Based Enhanced Incentives: Up to $16,000 or no-cost installation through Turnkey Services

New Rules About Qualified Systems and Refrigerants

Eligibility in 2026 isn’t just about choosing a high-efficiency model anymore. Heat pumps must now use approved low-GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants. Systems using the older, higher-impact R-410A are disqualified—no exceptions.

“Refrigerant guidelines in 2026 now lead the rebate curve; if your new heat pump isn’t engineered with a low-GWP refrigerant, it simply won’t qualify for Mass Save incentives.”

Why Heat Pumps Still Make Sense for Medway Homeowners in 2026

Despite slightly lowered incentives, heat pumps continue to be one of the most well-supported energy upgrades for Massachusetts residents—and particularly beneficial for Medway homeowners.

Dual Climate Capabilities

Heat pumps excel in regions like Medway because they efficiently heat in the coldest months and cool during summer—all from a single system. 

Instead of relying on oil or propane during winter, modern cold-climate heat pumps can handle even the harsh conditions of a Massachusetts January with reliability and lower operational costs.

Financial Advantages Despite Rebate Reductions

Even at $8,500, rebates like these still put thousands of dollars back in your pocket. Add that to energy savings from switching away from fuel-based systems and you continue to see real value over time, especially in high-usage towns like Medway where seasonal extremes demand high performance from your HVAC system.

Understanding the Different Types of Rebates in 2026

Choosing the appropriate rebate path is key. More importantly, understanding what each rebate type requires is crucial to qualifying—and maximizing savings.

Whole-Home Rebate—Maximum Incentive, Maximum Criteria

If you’re replacing your entire existing heating system with heat pumps, and your home will rely solely on the new system for heating, the Whole-Home rebate is your target. It offers:

• $2,650 per ton
• Up to a maximum of $8,500
• Requires complete electric heating coverage
• Must use qualifying low-GWP refrigerants and high-efficiency equipment

This option gives the maximum return, but also requires significant planning and documentation, usually including mechanical home energy assessments and removal of fossil fuel heating.

Partial-Home and Basic Rebates—Flexible, But Less Money

Partial-Home: Designed for hybrid or supplementary installs where the heat pump coexists with oil or gas systems. The rebate is:

• $1,125 per ton
• Up to $8,500
• Requires that the heat pump be a primary heating source in the covered areas

Basic Rebate: Ideal for limited upgrades, single zones, or partial use in smaller areas of the home:

• $250 per ton
• Max cap of $2,500
• Fewer restrictions, but not the best payout per dollar invested

Income-Eligible Offers—Get Up to $16,000 or No-Cost Installation

Qualifying households in Medway may be eligible for enhanced income-based rebates through Mass Save's Turnkey Services. This means:

• Up to $16,000 in value
• In some cases, full system installation at no cost
• Additional assistance with weatherization and energy efficiency upgrades

To check if you qualify, submit an energy assessment through the Mass Save website.

Important Rule Changes Every Medway Homeowner Should Know

Mass Save’s transition toward climate-conscience refrigerants and efficiency thresholds aligns with Massachusetts’ Clean Energy and Climate Plan. However, the finer details deeply affect your eligibility and costs.

No More Federal Tax Credits in 2026

As of 2026, the federal heat pump tax credit (previously up to $2,000 via the Inflation Reduction Act) is no longer available. That means state-level Mass Save rebates are now your primary source of financial assistance.

Older Models No Longer Qualify

R-410A-based systems, once common in many homes, are now explicitly ruled out under Mass Save’s new standards. Only systems with low-GWP refrigerants such as R-32 or other approved variants are eligible.

This ensures long-term environmental compliance but also underscores how crucial it is to choose a contractor familiar with the most up-to-date technology and rebate compliance—especially in towns like Medway where local technicians may still offer outdated systems unaware of 2026 rules.

Rebate Reductions Are Trending Downward

Mass Save has made it clear: these rebates will phase down as the state moves closer to 2030 clean energy goals. The 2026 $1,500 drop from 2025 levels is a sign of what’s to come.

“Timing matters more than most people realize. Every year you wait comes with a smaller rebate, longer approval timelines, and fewer federal perks.”

How Medway Residents Can Still Save More with Local Programs

In addition to state incentives, several local and utility-based options are available to residents of Medway and the larger MetroWest area.

Winter Reduced Rate Programs

Electric customers in Medway serviced by Eversource or National Grid can benefit from winter rate adjustments offered to high-efficiency heat pump users. These allow for reduced electricity rates during cold-weather periods, when heat pump usage peaks. Participating in these programs can cut your winter heating bills substantially.

Additional Weatherization Offers

While they aren't cash rebates, many people overlook the added energy efficiency upgrades that Mass Save sometimes rolls into assessments—including free insulation, air sealing, and duct sealing improvements. If your heat pump install includes these features, the total value of your upgrade can rise dramatically without increasing your out-of-pocket cost.

Why Medway's Housing Stock Is a Perfect Fit for Heat Pump Retrofits

Many Medway homes—especially older Colonials, Capes, and ranch-style houses—still rely on oil or baseboard electric systems. These setups are ripe for effective heat pump integration. Whether replacing inefficient window ACs or transitioning from fossil fuels completely, heat pumps eliminate redundancies, improve comfort, and contribute to the Commonwealth’s net-zero goals.

Better Comfort Without Major Renovation

Modern ductless mini-split systems avoid the need for entire ductwork retrofits in homes where it's impractical, making installation simpler for many classic Medway homes.

Lower Year-Round Utility Bills

Since heat pumps provide both heating and cooling in one integrated system, Medway homeowners can reduce or eliminate the need for separate window AC units or additional equipment, all while trimming energy costs regardless of the season.

How to Qualify: A Simple Guide for Medway Homeowners

Upgrading your home with a new heat pump through Mass Save may sound complex, but the path forward is straightforward when working with qualified vendors like SumZero Energy Systems.

Here’s what to expect:

• Schedule a no-cost Home Energy Assessment through Mass Save
• Decide on whole-home vs. partial-home or basic coverage
• Consult with a licensed, program-eligible contractor on equipment and design
• Ensure selected system uses qualifying low-GWP refrigerants
• Complete installation before rebate deadlines change
• Submit final paperwork for rebate processing and payment

Rebate eligibility requires following these requirements strictly. Rushing or skipping a step—especially choosing non-qualified equipment or skipping the assessment—could disqualify your rebate.

Conclusion: 2026 Is Still a Smart Time to Upgrade, But Don’t Wait

Although the incentives for heat pumps in Massachusetts have decreased slightly in 2026, they remain a powerful tool to improve home comfort, reduce your carbon impact, and lower overall energy expenses—especially in homes throughout Medway. By acting now, you not only lock in this year’s incentives but avoid the inevitable reductions in years ahead.

SumZero Energy Systems stays up to date on every nuance of Mass Save’s evolving standards. As your local Medway experts, we help guide your upgrade from offering selection to rebate application—ensuring you get the most value from every step. 

To explore active rebate tiers, system eligibility, or to begin your application, visit the official Mass Save Heat Pump Rebates page.