Colorado HEAR Heat Pump Rebates: How They Work and How to Apply
If you’re installing a heat pump in Denver or the Front Range, the Colorado HEAR program may reduce your upfront cost with income-qualified point-of-sale rebates. This page breaks down eligibility, typical rebate caps, and the exact steps to move from “curious” to “installed.”
Service area focus: Denver, Edgewater, Sloan’s Lake, Wheat Ridge, Lakewood, Arvada, Golden, Littleton, Englewood, Centennial, Aurora, Highlands Ranch.
Who Typically Qualifies for Colorado HEAR Rebates
The HEAR program is designed for households that meet income requirements based on Area Median Income (AMI), which varies by county and household size. Generally, households below certain AMI thresholds receive larger rebates.
If you want, we can help you identify your likely AMI band and map it to an equipment plan that makes sense for your home.
Documents You May Need
Programs typically require documentation to verify income and residency. Common examples include:
- Recent tax returns (e.g., Form 1040)
- Pay stubs or wage statements
- Benefit letters (when applicable)
- W-2 / 1099 forms (as applicable)
Exact requirements can vary by program portal and your household situation.
Typical HEAR Rebate Caps (Commonly Cited)
HEAR rebates may apply to multiple electrification upgrades. Below are commonly referenced caps. Final eligibility depends on current program rules and your AMI band.
| Eligible Upgrade | Typical Max Rebate (per household) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Heat pump (space heating & cooling) | Up to $8,000 | Often higher for cold-climate qualifying systems |
| Heat pump water heater | Up to $1,750 | Useful for electrifying domestic hot water |
| Electrical panel upgrade | Up to $4,000 | Helps support new electrical loads for electrification |
| Electrical wiring improvements | Up to $2,500 | May be needed to meet code and safely add circuits |
| Insulation / air sealing / ventilation | Up to $1,600 | Can reduce heat pump sizing and improve comfort |
| Total HEAR cap across measures | Up to $14,000 | Total varies by eligibility and project scope |
Tip: In many cases, incentives can be layered with utility rebates and federal tax credits, subject to program rules.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
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1Confirm likely AMI eligibility Determine your household size, county, and approximate AMI band.
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2Choose a heat pump plan We size and design based on your home, comfort goals, and Colorado climate.
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3Program portal + documentation Submit required proof (income/residency) per program instructions.
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4Install + apply eligible discounts HEAR is designed as point-of-sale; your final structure depends on the program workflow.
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5Close-out documentation Keep invoices and equipment specs for records and any stacked incentives.
Why Homeowners Choose Heat Pumps in Denver
Modern inverter heat pumps can provide efficient heating and cooling, often improving comfort while reducing reliance on combustion appliances. In the Front Range, the right system selection matters: sizing, cold-weather performance, and airflow design are critical.
Common project add-ons
- Electrical service/panel coordination
- Dedicated circuits + disconnects
- Air sealing and insulation
- Heat pump water heater
FAQs
Is HEAR a reimbursement or an upfront discount?
HEAR is structured as a point-of-sale rebate program (upfront discount), but the exact workflow depends on the current Colorado program portal and participating contractor processes.
Can HEAR be combined with Xcel Energy rebates or federal tax credits?
Often, incentives can be layered. However, the rules differ by program. We review your equipment, address, and utility territory to determine what can be combined.
What heat pump systems qualify?
Qualification depends on program rules and equipment specifications. We help you choose systems that are appropriate for Colorado’s climate and aligned with current incentive requirements.
Do I need an electrical upgrade?
Not always. Some homes need a panel upgrade, wiring improvements, or additional circuits. We evaluate your existing electrical capacity and coordinate code-compliant upgrades if needed.
What areas do you serve?
We serve Denver and the Front Range, including Edgewater, Sloan’s Lake, Wheat Ridge, Lakewood, Arvada, Golden, Littleton, Englewood, Centennial, Aurora, and surrounding communities.
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