Heat Pump Program
MaineHousing’s heat pump program pays for the cost and installation of a heat pump for eligible Maine homeowners.
Heat pumps are a popular and efficient tool to help heat homes in cold climates. They can help save on heating costs if used in the correct way.
During the winter, heat pumps take heat from outside air and deliver it inside. A heat pump is very efficient, because it moves heat instead of generating it.
Heat pumps can be used throughout the winter even at low temperatures. Heat pumps can also air condition and dehumidify during the summer. They are more efficient than window air conditioning units.
In an annual heating cost comparison, ductless heat pumps save energy - which helps the environment and can save you money. Compare your heating costs and find more information about heat pumps by visiting Efficiency Maine’s website: efficiencymaine.com.
MaineHousing’s heat pump program will pay for the heat pump purchase and installation if you qualify for the program. Program terms include income guidelines and owning and occupying your home.
ELIGIBILITY
You may be eligible if:
- You are eligible for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and the Central Heating Improvement Program (CHIP), and
- You are a homeowner, and
- Your home is a good candidate for a heat pump as a secondary heating source. (This can be decided at an inspection – you do not need to know the answer to this question right now.)
MORE INFO
Commonly Asked Heat Pump Questions:
Will a heat pump reduce my annual heat costs?
Every home is different. In a typical Maine home, a ductless heat pump will reduce overall heating costs as long as it is used correctly.
Can I use a heat pump instead of my current heating system?
Heat pumps are a secondary heat source meant to be used with your primary heating system.
How many rooms can I heat with a heat pump?
One indoor unit can heat many rooms as long as there is a path for the heat to travel between them. Some homeowners keep doors open to help with air flow.
Should I only use the heat pump during the winter?
Heat pumps can be used all year! They perform the same functions as five different appliances: heaters, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, ceiling fans, and room air filters.
Will my electric bill go up if I get a heat pump?
Yes. However, if your current heating system runs on oil, kerosene, or propane, the savings from burning less fuel will result in overall savings. Using prices from the Governor’s Energy Office as of March 4, 2022 Efficiency Maine’s Cost of Heating Calculator shows that heat pumps still save $913 per year compared to heating with oil and $2,128 per year compared to heating with propane. When a ductless heat pump is used for cooling instead of a window air conditioner, it will decrease your electric bill.
Are heat pumps complicated to use?
The heat pumps purchased and installed through the MaineHousing program are simple to use. The heat pump comes with a remote. The person who installs your heat pump will show you how to use it. They can also give you tips on how to use the heat pump in your home.
Why did MaineHousing create this program?
In June 2019 Maine Governor Janet Mills signed LD 1766 “An Act To Transform Maine's Heat Pump Market To Advance Economic Security and Climate Objectives,” which establishes the goal of installing 100,000 heat pumps in Maine by 2025. MaineHousing is committed to this heat pump initiative. As funding allows, MaineHousing will support the installation of heat pumps for HEAP clients (and those who are eligible for weatherization services) whose homes are good candidates for heat pumps as secondary heat sources. This can help reduce households’ overall energy burdens.
Contact Information
You apply at your local Community Action Agency (CAA). You can find your local CAA here. It is important to call as soon as you can.
Documents & Links
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