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What's going on

My AC is dying.

Don't replace it with another AC. A heat pump replaces your AC and most of your heating system in the same install, with $8,500 to $11,500 in rebates a standalone AC swap doesn't qualify for.

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An old, weather-worn outdoor AC condenser unit reaching the end of its life
What actually helps

Here's the short list.

The rebate stack, the smart play, and why each one matters for this specific problem.

i.
Heat pump (heats AND cools)
A modern cold-climate heat pump is functionally an AC that also runs in reverse. Same compressor technology. One system, two seasons. R-410A units were delisted in 2026, only R-32 and R-454B qualify for rebates now.
Up to $11,500 · RI
ii.
Ductless mini-split (for homes without ducts)
If your house has no central ductwork, a ductless mini-split system gives you zone-by-zone control and the same rebate eligibility. Often better than central for older homes.
Same rebate tier
iii.
Don't replace the AC with another AC
A standalone central AC has no heating rebate stack. A heat pump does. The two installs are similar in scope. The rebate difference is $8,500 to $11,500. Skip the AC.
Read: what changed in 2026
Context

The once-a-decade window

HVAC systems are replaced roughly every 12-18 years. When yours fails, you have a narrow window where capital is flowing, a contractor is already on-site, and the opportunity cost of going heat-pump is near zero. Once a new standalone AC is installed, you've locked out the heat pump rebate tier for the next 15 years, and you're still paying for oil, gas, or electric resistance heat during the cold months. The time to make this call is now, while the old unit is still limping.

See which rebates apply to your home.

Your Home Efficiency Score maps every eligible program to your exact address.

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