Pennsylvania HEAR Program

Overview

This program offers point-of-sale or direct rebates for high-efficiency electric appliances and related home improvements, including insulation.

• Provider: Pennsylvania DEP via Penn Energy Savers.
• Eligible areas: Statewide in Pennsylvania (PA).
• Key details: Up to $1,600 for insulation, air sealing, and ventilation; overall HEAR rebates cap at $14,000 per household (including appliances like heat pumps).
• Covered types: Attic, walls, floor, basement, whole-home insulation, plus air sealing and ventilation as enabling measures.
• Expiration: Ongoing until funds (about $129 million allocated to PA) are exhausted; program in launch/awaiting final approvals as of early 2026.

How It Helps You

Insulation upgrades can cut energy bills by 10-30% by keeping heat in during winter and out during summer, especially in Pennsylvania’s variable climate. You’ll enjoy a more comfortable home with fewer drafts and temperature swings. This rebate stacks well with federal tax credits (like the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit) for even greater savings. Environmentally, it reduces your carbon footprint by lowering energy use.

Pros

• Significant upfront savings (up to 100% of costs for lowest-income households).
• Lower monthly bills and improved comfort.
• Supports health via better air quality from ventilation.

Cons

• Income eligibility required (below 150% of area median income).
• Application and verification paperwork involved.
• Program funds limited and may run out. (Example: Attic insulation installation in progress)(Before and after home insulation for energy savings)(Energy savings chart showing reduced bills after upgrades)

Eligibility and Application

• Who qualifies: Homeowners or renters in PA with household income below 150% of area median income (AMI); highest rebates (up to 100% coverage) for below 80% AMI. Categorical eligibility possible via programs like SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, or Weatherization Assistance.
• Required improvements: Often paired with electrification (e.g., heat pumps), but insulation/air sealing/ventilation eligible as standalone or enabling measures. Must use qualified contractors/products.
• Step-by-step application:
  1. Check eligibility and income at pennenergysavers.com.
  2. Get a home energy assessment if needed.
  3. Work with a qualified contractor (state building network in progress).
  4. Purchase/install qualifying upgrades.
  5. Submit documentation for rebate (point-of-sale discount or reimbursement).
  6. Await approval and receive funds.

Real-World Examples

A Pennsylvania family below 80% AMI adds attic and wall insulation plus air sealing as part of a heat pump upgrade. They could get up to $1,600 back on insulation measures, reduce heating bills by $400-600 annually, and enjoy a warmer home in winter. Another household in a colder PA region insulates their basement and floors. With full coverage, they save thousands upfront and cut energy use by 20%, stacking with other incentives for total savings over $2,000/year.

Frequently Asked Questions