Top 10 FAQs About the HEAR Focus on Energy Program – What Homeowners Need to Know
If you’re a homeowner looking to upgrade your home’s energy efficiency while saving thousands of dollars, you may have heard about the HEAR (Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates) program through Focus on Energy. This program, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), offers instant discounts on energy-efficient upgrades like heat pumps, insulation, electrical panel upgrades, and more—but many homeowners still have questions.
At Liberty Home Comfort, we make the entire process hassle-free by handling all the paperwork, ensuring you receive the maximum rebates, and making upgrades possible with no out-of-pocket cost to you.
To help you understand how you can take advantage of this opportunity, here are the Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the HEAR Focus on Energy Program.
1. What is the HEAR Program, and how does it help homeowners?
The Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) Program provides instant discounts to homeowners who upgrade to energy-efficient electric appliances. The program’s goal is to help households transition to cleaner, more energy-efficient home systems by reducing upfront costs.
Key benefits:
✅ Up to $8,000 in rebates for energy-efficient heat pumps
✅ Up to $4,000 for electrical panel upgrades
✅ Up to $2,500 for new electrical wiring
✅ Up to $1,600 for insulation and air sealing
These rebates help homeowners lower energy bills, increase comfort, and improve indoor air quality—all while reducing environmental impact.
2. Who qualifies for the HEAR rebates?
The HEAR program is available to homeowners in Wisconsin who earn 150% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI).
To check your eligibility, Liberty Home Comfort can verify your income qualification and handle all paperwork for you. If you qualify, your rebate is applied instantly, meaning no waiting for reimbursement!
3. What home upgrades are covered under the HEAR program?
The program covers a variety of energy-efficient upgrades, including:
ENERGY STAR® certified heat pumps (for heating and cooling)
Heat pump water heaters
Insulation and air sealing to improve efficiency
Upgraded electrical panels to support new appliances
New electrical wiring for modernized home efficiency
At Liberty Home Comfort, we’ll help you identify which upgrades best suit your home and qualify for the highest rebates.
4. How do I apply for HEAR rebates?
Applying for HEAR rebates on your own can be complicated and time-consuming, but Liberty Home Comfort makes it simple.
Here’s how we help:
✔ We verify your eligibility and handle all paperwork.
✔ We schedule your energy assessment to determine your best upgrades.
✔ We apply rebates instantly—you don’t need to wait for reimbursement.
✔ We install your energy-efficient upgrades with top-quality workmanship.
You just sit back and enjoy a more comfortable, energy-efficient home—without the stress.
5. Is there a deadline to apply for HEAR rebates?
Yes! The HEAR program has limited funding and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Homeowners who apply early have the best chance of securing maximum rebates before funds run out.
Additionally, if you’ve completed qualifying upgrades since August 16, 2022, you may be eligible for retroactive rebates, but applications must be submitted by December 31, 2025.
6. Can I combine HEAR rebates with other incentives?
Yes! One of the biggest advantages of the HEAR program is that rebates can be stacked with:
Focus on Energy rebates
Utility company incentives
Manufacturer discounts
Federal tax credits
Liberty Home Comfort ensures you get the highest possible rebate total by stacking incentives correctly and efficiently.
7. Do I need a home energy assessment to qualify for HEAR?
While not always required for HEAR, a home energy assessment is highly recommended to determine the best upgrades for your home.
At Liberty Home Comfort, we provide a free energy assessment, which:
📊 Identifies the most effective energy-saving improvements
📊 Ensures you qualify for the maximum rebates
📊 Helps predict your long-term energy savings
8. How does a heat pump work, and why should I upgrade?
A heat pump is one of the most efficient ways to heat and cool your home. Instead of generating heat, it transfers warmth from the outside air into your home in the winter and does the opposite in the summer.
Why upgrade to a heat pump?
✅ Cuts energy costs by up to 50% compared to traditional systems
✅ Provides heating & cooling in one system
✅ More eco-friendly and improves indoor air quality
✅ Qualifies for the highest HEAR rebates
With up to $8,000 in rebates available, there has never been a better time to make the switch!
9. What happens if I sell my home after getting HEAR rebates?
If you sell your home after using the HEAR rebates, the new buyer benefits from the energy-efficient upgrades and lower energy bills. However, HEAR does require rental property owners to meet certain conditions, such as keeping rent stable for low-income tenants for at least two years.
If you’re considering selling your home, Liberty Home Comfort can advise you on the best approach to maximize your investment.
10. How do I get started with HEAR rebates?
Getting started is easy, and Liberty Home Comfort is here to handle everything for you!
✔ Step 1: Call 760.613.8294 to schedule your free consultation.
✔ Step 2: Our experts conduct a home energy assessment to identify qualifying upgrades.
✔ Step 3: We submit all HEAR rebate paperwork on your behalf.
✔ Step 4: We complete your high-quality installation with no out-of-pocket costs.
✔ Step 5: You enjoy lower energy bills, a more comfortable home, and big savings!
Don’t Miss Out – Contact Liberty Home Comfort Today!
The HEAR rebates make it easier than ever to upgrade your home’s energy efficiency without paying upfront costs—but funding is limited, and once it’s gone, it’s gone!
📞 Call Liberty Home Comfort at 760.613.8294 to schedule your free consultation
Let Liberty Home Comfort handle the entire process so you can save money, stay comfortable, and enjoy a more energy-efficient home today!
