Home Energy Upgrades: Performance Rebates & Tax Credits in Rochester, NY

At John Betlem Heating & Cooling, we believe your home should stay comfortable year-round, without driving up your energy bills. Through New York State energy programs, utility rebates, and federal tax incentives, Rochester homeowners can save up to $18,250 on qualifying home energy upgrades. It’s a smart way to make your home more efficient, safer, and better prepared for our harsh winters and humid summers.

Our experienced team will guide you through the entire process. We will help you identify available programs, complete applications, and install approved upgrades. We make saving simple.

Why Take Advantage of Rebates & Incentives?

Upgrading your home energy systems is one of the best investments you can make. Rebates and tax credits make those improvements more affordable, helping you save more. Benefits include:

• Lower Energy Bills: High-efficiency HVAC and electrical systems use far less energy, reducing monthly costs even through Rochester’s extreme cold and hot, humid summers.
• Improved Comfort: Proper insulation and balanced humidity keep your home cozy through every Nor’easter and heat wave.
• Enhanced Safety: Electrical service upgrades help prevent overloads, power loss during ice storms, and other risks.
• Higher Home Value: Energy-efficient homes are more appealing to buyers and often sell faster.
• Smaller Environmental Footprint: Reduced energy use means fewer greenhouse gas emissions and a cleaner community.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades Available

You may qualify for multiple improvements, including:

• Insulation and air sealing for draft reduction
• Heating and cooling system upgrades, including high-efficiency heat pumps
• Electrical panel and service upgrades (ideal for EV charging)
• Energy-efficient water heaters
• LED lighting and smart controls

Our certified technicians ensure every upgrade meets NYSERDA and utility rebate requirements.

Programs That Can Help You Save

EmPower+ Program

Provides free or reduced-cost home improvements for qualifying households.

• Tier 1 (Low Income): Up to $18,250 in free upgrades
• Tier 3 (Moderate Income): Up to $13,250 in free upgrades

Eligible upgrades include:

• Insulation and air sealing
• Electrical panel/service upgrades
• High-efficiency heat pumps
• Energy-saving lighting

Typical allowances include:

• $4,000 – Electrical panel upgrade
• $8,000 – Heat pump systems
• $10,000 – Insulation and air sealing

Thousands of homeowners across the Greater Rochester area—including Penfield, Brighton, Fairport, and Pittsford—qualify for this program.

Comfort Home Program

For all income levels, this program offers up to $3,000 in rebates for insulation and air sealing upgrades.

• Increases comfort and efficiency through every season
• Improves indoor air quality and reduces drafts
• Available for most one-to-four family homes in Monroe County

Clean Heat Program

Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling in a single efficient system, perfect for Rochester’s climate. Through the Clean Heat Program, homeowners can receive rebates covering up to 50% of the project cost, plus a $2,000 Federal IRA tax credit.

Free Home Energy Audits

Our no-cost home energy audit identifies where your home may be losing energy, like unsealed ducts, inadequate insulation, or inefficient systems. You’ll receive personalized recommendations and may qualify for free energy-saving products, such as:

• LED bulbs
• Smart power strips
• Programmable thermostats
• Smoke and CO detectors

Flexible Financing Options

If you don’t qualify for full program coverage, John Betlem offers additional, affordable financing options, so you can start saving right away. Visit our Financing page to explore flexible plans that fit your budget.

Why Choose John Betlem Heating & Cooling?

For more than 80 years, Rochester homeowners have relied on John Betlem Heating & Cooling for dependable service, expert installation, and lasting comfort. As certified members of ACCA, BBB, BCB, and NYSERDA, our team upholds the highest standards of safety, quality, and energy efficiency in every project.

We’re also proud to give back to the community we serve. Each month, our team supports a local charity or cause, contributing to organizations such as Tunnel to Towers, the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester (BCCR), the Dream Factory, and Lollypop Farm, as well as local favorites like the Rochester Red Wings and Amerks Hockey.

Start Saving Today

Contact John Betlem Heating & Cooling to learn which rebates and tax credits you qualify for and take the first step toward a more comfortable, energy-efficient home in Rochester, New York.