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Frequently Asked Questions/Support
Frequently Asked Questions
How will my energy bill change if I upgrade to energy-efficient appliances?
Energy-efficient appliances are designed to use less electricity, which can lead to lower monthly energy bills. While participants typically see a noticeable drop in energy usage, actual savings will vary based on several factors, including:
- Your household’s overall energy habits
- Your SDG&E electricity plan (e.g., time-of-use rates)
- The cost difference between electricity and other energy sources like natural gas
It's important to note that SDG&E electricity rates can be higher per unit than natural gas, so total savings will also depend on how effectively you use energy-saving tips and best practices in combination with your upgraded appliances.
To learn more about energy-saving tips and time-of-use- rates please visit the HEART educational page.
Where can I find a certified, trustworthy contractor?
The City provides a list of verified contractors who have:
- Applicable licenses and have attended program-led orientation
- Been screened and approved based on the program requirements
- Experience installing the applicable upgrades
You’ll receive this list once you have been approved to move through the next steps, or it can be found on the program’s website once the directory is posted.
Do I have to use a contractor from the City's list of verified contractors?
No, you do not have to use a contractor from the list provided on the City's website.
Do heat pumps still work in colder temperatures?
Yes, modern cold-climate heat pumps work effectively even in cold weather. These systems are reliable year-round and provide both heating and cooling. To learn more about heat pumps, check out the U.S. Department of Energy Heat Pump Systems web page.
How will I know which appliances qualify for the rebate?
The City will provide a list of pre-approved, rebate-eligible appliances. If you’re interested in a different model, simply contact the program administrator by email at ElectrifySD@sandiego.gov to confirm if it qualifies under the program. Please note that you may not move forward with the purchase of the appliance until you receive approval from the City.
What brand or type of appliance should I get?
You can choose an appliance from the City’s approved list of appliances, which includes top-rated models known for energy savings, quality, and rebate eligibility. For additional guidance, contact the program administrator by email at ElectrifySD@sandiego.gov to help you select the best option for your home.
The HEART Program General Overview Webinar FAQs
Watch the HEART Program General Overview Webinar Video
Is this program available for Chula Vista, Poway, and El Cajon residents?
No, this program is for City of San Diego Residents.
These are federal funds. Are they not available across the USA until exhausted?
Each City, County, or State was eligible to receive their own grant which could be used for a variety of programs. This program is what the City of San Diego has chosen to use these funds for.
The recordings are available on the main HEART webpage in the Webinars and Workshops section.
Do you anticipate that the funds will all be used in the Flood Impact Areas?
Flood Impacted Areas will be prioritized for each of the three phases, so those homes will receive funding first.
How would we be notified of what the DOE contact says about updated eligibility?
Any updates on eligibility will be posted on the website and emailed to those that filled out the interest form. Any updates would likely take 1-2 weeks.
How do we find the panel capacity?
To determine your electrical panel’s capacity (the maximum amount of electricity it can handle), locate the main breaker inside the panel and note its amperage rating, which is usually displayed on the breaker itself or nearby. This rating, typically 100A. 150A. or 200A, indicates the panel’s capacity. You can also find the panel’s Capacity on a label inside the panel door. Here is a helpful guide: How to determine your panel size.
Are elderly and disabled people prioritized for this program?
No, those criteria are not included in the HEART Program, however the team is in communication with the Department of Energy and will update the HEART Program website with any changes.
To be eligible for all phases, does the home have to be in a flood-impacted area?
No, homes do not have to be flood-impacted to be eligible; however, homes located in flood-impacted areas will be prioritized.
Are organizational buildings eligible?
Only single family homes and low-rise (three stories and under) multi-family buildings qualify for this program. If an organization was operating a building as residential and it fit within these requirements, the owners of the buildings could apply for this program.
If there are filters for heat pumps, are those covered?
The HEART Program does not provide rebates for consumable components such as filters. Rebates are only provided for the component itself. There will be a list of eligible appliances posted on the program website soon.
The HEART Team is currently working on setting up a phone number and it will be available on the website as soon as possible.
The HEART Program Contractor Webinar Training FAQs
Watch the HEART Program Contractor Webinar Training Video
Is a general B license going to work for this program?
Contractors need to be licensed to perform electrical work, and in some cases plumbing work (for water heaters). So, this would be for C-4, C-10, C-20, and C-36.
If there is any work that falls under a B license that is directly related to the installation – for example carpentry for wall repair then yes you would be able to.
City staff from Development Services Department.
Is the funding completely secured?
The City of San Diego has allocated the amount of anticipated grant funds received from the federal government in the budget. However, new developments could be shared by the federal government at any time. For any work that is done there is no risk to the contractors for getting reimbursed once the project has been inspected and approved.
While the jobs are in progress, if something happens with the funding what will happen?
The full federal grant allocated $949,000 for the HEART Program to administer rebates. This money has been set aside already.
For General Inquiries or Technical Support
- Email: ElectrifySD@sandiego.gov
Maximizing Your Energy Project Funding
If the Home Electrification Affordability Rebates and Technical Assistance (HEART) program does not cover 100% of your project costs, you may be able to combine funding from additional programs. The following programs allow stacking with other financial incentives to help you fully cover expenses for energy efficiency upgrades.
Programs that Support Stacking
TECH Clean California – Equity Heat Pump Water Heater Incentives
- Covers: Heat pump water heaters
- Tech Clean California website
California Energy Smart Homes
- Covers: HVAC heat pumps, heat pump water heating, induction stoves and electric dryers
- California Energy Smart Homes website
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Covers: Heating and cooling system repairs, weatherization, utility assistance
- LIHEAP website
Inflation Reduction Act – Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEEHRA) and Home Efficiency Rebates (HOMES)
- Covers: Whole-home energy efficiency retrofits, electrification, HVAC upgrades
- Inflation Reduction Act Residential Energy Rebate Programs website
How to Apply for Additional Funding
- Review available programs – View the links above to explore each program.
- Check eligibility and application details – Each program has different requirements.
- Apply for multiple sources – Stacking funding can help maximize your total project support.
If you need assistance identifying the right funding sources, contact us for guidance.