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In Connecticut, your installer choice directly determines whether you receive Energize CT rebates. Only HPIN-registered contractors can access the rebate system. This guide gives you a 10-point checklist to vet any CT heat pump contractor before you sign.
Quick Answer: HPIN Registration Is Mandatory
Your installer must be a registered member of the Energize CT Heat Pump Installer Network (HPIN) to qualify for any Energize CT rebates ($250/ton standard, up to $1,000/ton energy optimization). The contractor must also pre-register your project in the Energize CT portal before installation begins. No HPIN membership = no rebate. Verify this first before evaluating anything else.
The Heat Pump Installer Network (HPIN) is Energize CT's vetted network of contractors who have met specific training, licensing, and quality requirements. Energize CT is the statewide energy efficiency program funded by Connecticut's two electric utilities: Eversource and United Illuminating (UI).
HPIN registration is not optional. It is the gateway to every Energize CT heat pump rebate. When you use an HPIN contractor, several things happen that protect you:
HPIN contractors access the rebate portal directly. Non-HPIN installers cannot pre-register projects or submit rebate paperwork at all.
HPIN contractors are trained on which equipment meets Energize CT requirements. They know the approved product lists and refrigerant rules.
HPIN contractors handle the mandatory pre-registration process through the Energize CT portal. This must happen before installation begins.
Energize CT audits HPIN contractors and conducts post-installation inspections. Contractors who fail quality standards are removed from the network.
How to verify: Visit the Energize CT contractor finder at energizect.com or call Energize CT directly. Ask the installer for their HPIN contractor ID number. If they hesitate or say they are "in the process of joining," get a firm timeline or find another installer. Not all HVAC contractors are in the HPIN — verify before signing anything.
Every Energize CT heat pump rebate requires this workflow. Your HPIN contractor manages the process, but you should understand each step.
Find an HPIN-registered contractor through energizect.com or contact one directly. Confirm their HPIN status before scheduling a site visit.
The contractor visits your home, performs a Manual J load calculation, evaluates your existing heating system, and designs the proposed heat pump system. You should receive a written proposal.
Your HPIN contractor submits the project details, including equipment specs and expected energy savings, into the Energize CT online portal. This step is mandatory before any work begins.
Energize CT reviews the submission. Approval times vary but typically take 1-3 weeks. The contractor should keep you informed of the status. No installation work should begin until approval is received.
Once approved, the contractor orders equipment (if not already in stock), pulls required permits, and schedules the installation. Ductless systems take 1-2 days; ducted systems 2-4 days.
After installation, the contractor submits completion documentation to Energize CT, including photos, commissioning data, permit sign-offs, and final equipment specifications.
Energize CT processes the rebate after verifying all documentation. Standard rebates are typically paid within 4-8 weeks of completion documentation submission. The rebate is usually applied as a bill credit or check.
Use this checklist to evaluate every heat pump installer you talk to. An installer who meets all 10 points is worth your business.
Verify the installer is a registered member of the Energize CT Heat Pump Installer Network (HPIN). This is non-negotiable for receiving any Energize CT rebates. Ask for their HPIN contractor ID or verify on energizect.com.
Confirm they hold a current CT S-1 or S-2 mechanical contractor license from the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP). Electrical work requires a CT E-1 or E-2 electrical license. These are state-issued and verifiable through the DCP online system.
The proposal should include a room-by-room Manual J load calculation for your home. This determines the correct system size based on insulation, windows, square footage, and CT climate data. It should be included at no extra charge.
The proposed equipment must be ENERGY STAR Cold Climate certified. This means it is tested and rated for performance at 5°F and below, which is important for Connecticut winters where temperatures regularly drop below zero.
The system should use R-32 or R-454B refrigerant, not legacy R-410A. Newer refrigerants have lower global warming potential and are increasingly required by rebate programs. An installer pushing R-410A may be clearing old stock.
Get warranty terms in writing before signing. Minimum standards: 10-year compressor warranty and 5-year parts warranty from the manufacturer, plus at least a 2-year workmanship warranty from the installer.
Ask about experience with your specific home type: antique colonial, cape, ranch, split-level, or condo. Connecticut has a large stock of older homes with unique insulation and ductwork challenges. Request photos of similar completed projects.
Request at least 3 references from Connecticut installations completed in the past 12 months. Contact them and ask about communication, cleanliness, system performance through winter, and whether the Energize CT rebate was processed smoothly.
Verify current general liability insurance ($1M minimum) and workers compensation coverage. Ask for a certificate of insurance. Connecticut law requires workers comp for contractors with employees.
The installer must handle all Energize CT pre-registration and rebate paperwork, including the portal submission before installation begins. If they say the rebate is "your responsibility," that is a major red flag indicating they may not be a true HPIN member.
Any one of these should give you serious pause. Two or more and you should find a different installer.
No HPIN registration means no Energize CT rebate. Period. Some installers claim they can "help you apply" for the rebate independently. They cannot. The contractor must be in the HPIN and must pre-register through the portal.
R-410A is a legacy refrigerant with high global warming potential. An installer proposing R-410A in 2026 is either uninformed about current industry direction or trying to clear old stock at your expense.
Any installer who sizes your system based on square footage alone or "rules of thumb" is guessing. Improperly sized systems waste energy, fail to heat adequately, and short-cycle. This is especially critical for Connecticut's older housing stock.
"This price is only good today" or "we have one unit left" are pressure tactics. Reputable installers provide written quotes valid for 30-60 days and encourage you to compare.
Verbal warranty promises are unenforceable. If an installer will not put warranty terms in writing before you sign, walk away.
Some AC-focused contractors are adding heat pumps without adequate training. Ask specifically about cold-climate installations. A contractor who has only installed cooling-focused systems may not properly size or configure equipment for Connecticut heating loads.
If you plan to finance through the CT Green Bank Smart-E Loan, your installer should understand the process and timeline. An installer who is unfamiliar with Smart-E suggests they have limited Energize CT experience.
The Connecticut Green Bank Smart-E Loan is one of the best heat pump financing options in New England. Here is what you need to qualify.
Important: The 0.99% APR Smart-E rate is currently available through March 31, 2026. If you are considering financing, factor the pre-registration timeline into your planning. Starting the process now gives you the best chance of locking in this rate. Ask your HPIN contractor about their Smart-E Loan experience — familiarity with the process means fewer delays.
Print this list and bring it to every installer consultation. A good installer will welcome these questions.
Are you a registered member of the Energize CT Heat Pump Installer Network (HPIN)? Can I verify your HPIN contractor ID?
Will you handle the full Energize CT pre-registration process, including portal submission before installation?
Will you perform a Manual J load calculation for my home, and is it included in the quote?
What specific equipment make and model are you proposing, and what refrigerant does it use?
Is this equipment ENERGY STAR Cold Climate certified?
What is the rated heating capacity at 5°F and at -15°F?
What warranties are included (compressor, parts, and your labor/workmanship)?
Do you have experience with the CT Green Bank Smart-E Loan process?
Which rebate tier does my project qualify for: standard ($250/ton) or energy optimization ($1,000/ton)?
How many heat pump installations have you completed in Connecticut in the past year?
Can you provide 3 references from CT installations?
What is the full project timeline from signing through Energize CT approval to completion?
Do you pull all required electrical and mechanical permits?
What does the installation include for cleanup and disposal of old equipment?
Here is the typical timeline for a heat pump installation in Connecticut, from first contact to final inspection. The Energize CT pre-registration step adds time but protects your rebate.
The installer visits your home, assesses your existing heating system, performs a Manual J load calculation, and discusses your goals. You should receive a written proposal within 3-5 business days.
Compare at least 2-3 proposals from HPIN contractors. Review equipment specs, warranty terms, total cost, rebate amounts, and Smart-E Loan eligibility. Once you sign, the pre-registration process begins.
Your HPIN contractor submits the project to the Energize CT portal. Approval typically takes 1-3 weeks. No installation work should begin until the project is approved. This step is mandatory for all rebate tiers.
The installer pulls electrical and mechanical permits from your local building department. Permit requirements vary by municipality in Connecticut. Your installer should handle this entirely.
Ductless mini-split: 1-2 days. Ducted system: 2-4 days. Hybrid system with existing ductwork: 2-3 days. The installer should protect your home with drop cloths and clean up daily.
Your municipality schedules an electrical inspection. The installer should commission the system, verify refrigerant charge, test all modes, and walk you through operation. Energize CT may also conduct a post-installation quality inspection.
The installer submits final completion documentation to Energize CT. You typically receive the rebate as a bill credit or check within 4-8 weeks. Your installer should keep you informed throughout this process.
Connecticut requires specific licenses for HVAC work. Here is what your installer should hold.
CT Dept. of Consumer Protection (DCP)
Required for installing, servicing, and maintaining heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems. The S-1 is unlimited; the S-2 has limitations on project size.
CT Dept. of Consumer Protection (DCP)
Required for all electrical wiring associated with heat pump installation, including circuit breaker additions and disconnect switches. May be held by an electrical subcontractor.
US Environmental Protection Agency
Federal requirement for anyone who handles refrigerants. At minimum, the technician performing the installation must hold this certification.
Insurance carrier
Not a license, but equally important. Protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property or if the installation causes property damage. Connecticut requires workers comp for contractors with employees.
How to verify licenses: Search the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) license lookup tool online at ct.gov/dcp. You can search by company name, individual name, or license number. If the license does not appear or is expired, do not proceed.
Understanding available rebates helps you evaluate installer proposals. All require an HPIN contractor.
| Program | Amount | Status | Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energize CT Standard | $250/ton (max $2,500) | Active | HPIN contractor + pre-registration |
| Energize CT Energy Optimization | Up to $1,000/ton (max $10,000) | Active | HPIN + comprehensive approach |
| HEAR (Federal) | Up to $8,000 (income-qualified) | Pending DOE Approval | Income qualification + approved contractor |
| Federal 25C Tax Credit | $0 | Expired Dec 31, 2025 | No longer available |
Important: The federal Section 25C energy efficiency tax credit expired on December 31, 2025. Any installer who tells you a federal tax credit is available for heat pumps in 2026 is providing incorrect information. The only active incentives are the Energize CT rebates (requiring HPIN) and the Smart-E Loan. HEAR federal rebates are pending DOE approval.
Connecticut has a growing number of heat pump installers. Here is context to help you evaluate your options.
Companies with multiple locations across Connecticut often have dedicated heat pump divisions and established HPIN relationships. They tend to have higher volume and reliable Energize CT paperwork processing, but may have longer wait times and higher overhead costs reflected in pricing.
Many traditional HVAC contractors (oil, gas, propane) are adding heat pump services. Verify they have joined the HPIN and have specific cold-climate heat pump training, not just general HVAC experience. An oil company adding heat pumps is not automatically a qualified heat pump installer.
Some solar and whole-home electrification companies offer heat pump services as part of a comprehensive approach. This can be convenient for bundled projects (solar + heat pump + battery). Look for dedicated heat pump technicians on staff and verify the HPIN membership is under the company's own name.
Our recommendation: Get at least 3 quotes from HPIN-registered installers. Compare not just price, but equipment specs, warranty terms, Manual J methodology, Energize CT experience, and how they communicate throughout the process. The cheapest quote is rarely the best value.
HPIN-Registered Contractor Serving CT
NuWatt Energy is an HPIN-registered contractor serving Connecticut homeowners. We hold the CT licenses, insurance, and Energize CT network credentials outlined in this guide. We include Manual J load calculations with every proposal, install only ENERGY STAR Cold Climate equipment with R-32 or R-454B refrigerant, and handle all Energize CT pre-registration and rebate paperwork on your behalf.
15+
Years Experience
2,500+
Installations Completed
NABCEP
Certified Team
We wrote this guide to help you make an informed decision, whether you choose us or another qualified HPIN installer. The most important thing is that you end up with a properly sized, properly installed system that qualifies for every Energize CT rebate available to you.
Common questions Connecticut homeowners ask about choosing a heat pump installer.
Yes. Energize CT rebates ($250/ton standard, up to $1,000/ton energy optimization) are only available when you use a contractor registered in the Heat Pump Installer Network (HPIN). The contractor must pre-register your project in the Energize CT portal before installation begins. Using a non-HPIN installer means you pay full price with no rebate, even if the equipment qualifies.
Visit energizect.com and use their contractor finder tool to search by zip code or company name. You can also call Energize CT directly and ask them to confirm a specific contractor's HPIN status. Ask the installer for their HPIN contractor ID number. If they hesitate or claim they are "in the process of joining," get a firm timeline or find another installer.
Before installation can begin, your HPIN contractor must register your project in the Energize CT portal. The contractor performs a home assessment, designs the system, and submits project details for approval. Energize CT reviews and approves the project. Only after approval does installation proceed. After completion, the contractor submits documentation and the rebate is processed. This pre-registration is mandatory for all rebate tiers.
CT heat pump installers need a Connecticut S-1 (unlimited mechanical) or S-2 (limited mechanical) contractor license issued by DCP. They must also hold EPA Section 608 certification for refrigerant handling. Electrical work requires a separate CT E-1 or E-2 electrical license. Ask to see current credentials before signing any contract.
The Smart-E Loan is a low-interest financing program through the Connecticut Green Bank. It offers 0.99% APR for up to $50,000 with terms up to 20 years. To qualify, you must use an HPIN-registered contractor, be an Eversource or UI customer, and have the project approved through Energize CT. The current 0.99% rate is available through March 31, 2026. The Smart-E Loan can cover the full cost after rebates.
A Manual J load calculation determines the exact heating and cooling capacity your home needs based on its size, insulation, windows, orientation, and local climate data. Without one, an installer is guessing at system size. Oversized systems short-cycle and waste energy; undersized systems cannot keep up in cold weather. Any reputable installer includes this in the proposal at no extra charge.
A typical ductless mini-split installation takes 1-2 days. A ducted or hybrid system may take 2-4 days depending on ductwork modifications. The full timeline from signing to completion is usually 3-8 weeks, including the Energize CT pre-registration and approval process. Electrical panel upgrades or ductwork additions can extend the schedule.
Before rebates, a single-zone ductless mini-split costs $4,500-$7,500 installed, a multi-zone system $12,000-$22,000, and a ducted system $14,000-$28,000. Energize CT standard rebates reduce costs by $250/ton (max $2,500), and the energy optimization tier pays up to $1,000/ton (max $10,000). HEAR federal rebates (pending DOE approval) could add up to $8,000 for income-qualified households. The federal 25C tax credit expired December 31, 2025.
Connecticut requires licensed contractors for HVAC installations. Even if you could legally do the work yourself, a DIY installation is not eligible for Energize CT rebates (you must use an HPIN contractor), voids most manufacturer warranties, will not pass required inspections, and could create safety hazards. The cost of lost rebates alone typically exceeds any labor savings.
The standard Energize CT rebate pays $250/ton with a maximum of $2,500. The energy optimization rebate pays up to $1,000/ton with a maximum of $10,000. The energy optimization tier requires a comprehensive approach: the system must meet higher performance standards, the home may need air sealing or insulation upgrades, and the installation must demonstrate significant energy savings. Your HPIN contractor can assess which tier your project qualifies for during the initial assessment.
$250/ton standard, up to $1,000/ton energy optimization. Complete rebate breakdown.
Ductless, ducted, and hybrid costs. Net cost after Energize CT rebates.
Performance data at sub-zero temps. Do they work in CT winters?
Cost comparison for CT oil-heated homes switching to heat pumps.
Why R-410A is being phased out and what new refrigerants mean for CT.
Manual J-based sizing with CT rebate estimates included.
Last updated: February 2026. Information is accurate as of publication date. Energize CT program rules and Smart-E Loan terms are subject to change; verify current requirements at energizect.com and ctgreenbank.com.
NuWatt Energy is an HPIN-registered contractor serving Connecticut. We handle all Energize CT pre-registration and rebate paperwork. Get a free assessment with a Manual J load calculation included.
Or call us: (877) 772-6357 — Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 9am-2pm