Last verified 2026-05-17
⚠️ FLAG: Rebate program in transition as of 2026-05-17. Golden State Rebates is currently updating its water-heating offers to match the CPUC-approved 2026 measure packages. Some rebates were temporarily unavailable in early 2026. Check goldenstaterebates.com/heat-pump-water-heaters before you buy. [Source: goldenstaterebates.com (accessed 2026-05-17)]
What you can get
Cash back when you install a heat pump (hybrid) water heater in your home. The amount depends on what you're replacing and the tank size. Current customer rebates listed on the official site:
If you're switching from a natural gas water heater to a heat pump:
- 45–55 gallon tank: $600
- 56–75 gallon tank: $700
- 75+ gallon tank: $700
If you're replacing an old electric water heater with a heat pump:
- 45–55 gallon tank: $400
The new water heater must have a UEF (efficiency rating) of 3.30 or higher. [Source: goldenstaterebates.com/heat-pump-water-heaters (accessed 2026-05-17)]
Note: The page title mentions "$900" — that figure reflects an older or combined contractor incentive. The customer-facing rebates above are what residential buyers actually receive at the register.
Who qualifies
- You live in California and own or rent a home you can install in.
- You have an active residential electric account with PG&E, SCE, SDG&E, or SoCalGas.
- You're installing a qualifying heat pump water heater from the program's Qualified Products list.
- The unit is installed within 60 days of purchase.
Why a heat pump water heater
A heat pump water heater uses about 70% less electricity than a standard electric tank — it moves heat from the air into the water instead of generating it. Water heating is typically the second-largest energy cost in a home (after heating/cooling), so the savings add up year after year. [Source: goldenstaterebates.com (accessed 2026-05-17)]
How to apply
There are two paths — pick the one that matches where you're buying:
1. Buy at a participating retail store (easiest)
- Go to the retail coupon portal.
- Pick a qualifying model and print/save the coupon.
- Bring the coupon to a participating store on the Participating Retail Store List. The discount comes off at checkout — no waiting for a check.
2. Buy through a participating distributor / contractor
- Use the Participating Distributors list.
- The distributor handles the paperwork; the rebate is applied to your invoice.
- You can self-install, but a licensed contractor is strongly recommended (electrical and plumbing work involved).
Common pitfalls
- Buying before checking the Qualified Products list — the rebate only applies to specific model numbers. Check first.
- Buying online or from non-participating stores — coupons only work in-store at listed retailers.
- Missing the 60-day install window — purchase date and install date both matter.
- Wrong account type — must be on a residential rate, not commercial.
- Stacking confusion — you may also qualify for federal tax credits (25C) or HEEHRA/TECH Clean California incentives. See the resources below.
Where to get help
- Golden State Rebates customer support: see goldenstaterebates.com for current contact info
- The Switch Is On — searchable database of all California electrification rebates: switchison.org
- PG&E Energy Savings Assistance Program — free or low-cost upgrades for income-qualified households (can include water heaters)
- For Nevada County residents: contact TechEMPOWER for help reading the program rules and applying
Sources
- Official program page: https://goldenstaterebates.com/goldenstaterebates/rebates/heat-pump-water-heaters/
- Retail coupon portal: https://goldenstaterebates.clearesult.com/browse-products/water-heating
- The Switch Is On listing: https://incentives.switchison.org/
All accessed 2026-05-17.