Los Angeles Heat Pump HVAC Decision Pack
Heat Pump HVAC
What this pack covers
This Decision Pack covers Heat Pump HVAC in Los Angeles, CA.
It assembles cost ranges, incentive eligibility, permit requirements, and the questions to ask before signing a contract. Every dollar figure and incentive shown is dated and sourced.
Your goal in one sentence
Choose and install a heat-pump HVAC system right-sized for your specific Los Angeles microclimate (coastal, basin, San Fernando Valley, or foothill) that delivers verified Manual J / S / D sizing, LADBS-permitted installation through ePlanLA, LA seismic anchoring, the LADWP Consumer Rebate Program tier confirmed and reserved before equipment is ordered, and an honest read on the LADWP-vs-IOU rebate stack because LA splits across LADWP, SCE plus CPA, and several smaller municipals.
Recommended sequence
- Heat Pump HVAC — No prerequisites within this pack.
Who to contact
| Who | Why | What to ask for |
|---|---|---|
| Electrification-focused HVAC contractor | Designs the heat pump HVAC system and handles ducting, load calculations, rebates, and permits. | Gas furnace to central heat pump conversion, Manual J load calculation, duct assessment, rebate handling. |
| Licensed electrician | Validates panel/service capacity for future electric load; recommends panel upgrade vs smart load management. | Panel size, service size, formal load calculation, upgrade vs load-management options. |
Opening script to send contractors
Hi, I'm in Los Angeles, CA and planning a project that includes Heat Pump HVAC. I am looking for a quote that includes: 1. Heat Pump HVAC Please tell me: - Will you perform a formal load calculation (Manual J for HVAC, Article 220 for electrical)? - Are you familiar with Los Angeles permits and any local rebate programs? - Can you give line-item pricing and separate confirmed incentives from assumed incentives? - Who handles permits, inspections, and rebate paperwork?
Technical basics in plain English
Panel size: 100A, 125A, 150A, 200A
Your electrical panel is the main entry point for electricity into your house. The 'A' means amps. More amps means more total electrical capacity. 100A is older and may not support adding heat pump + water heater + EV charger together without an upgrade or smart load management. 125A/150A is middle ground; could work with efficient equipment and a real load calculation. 200A is usually the cleanest path, but not guaranteed.
Ask: What is my panel size, and can you show me the load calculation that proves this setup is safe?
Load calculation
A load calculation is not the same as guessing. It is a code-based calculation that estimates whether your panel and service can safely carry all major electrical loads. A qualified electrician or contractor should be able to explain whether you need a panel upgrade, a service upgrade, or smart load management instead.
Ask: Are you doing a formal electrical load calculation, or just eyeballing the panel?
120V vs 240V
Normal outlets are usually 120V. Large appliances often use 240V, like a dryer or EV charger. Many heat pump HVAC systems, EV chargers, and some water heaters need 240V.
Ask: Which parts of this project require 240V?
Manual J load calculation (HVAC)
Manual J is the standard HVAC sizing calculation. It accounts for home size, insulation, windows, orientation, and ductwork. A good HVAC contractor performs Manual J before sizing the equipment; bad contractors just match the existing furnace tonnage.
Ask: Will you perform a Manual J load calculation before sizing the equipment?
Specific questions to ask
Questions for HVAC contractors
| Question | Good response | Bad response |
|---|---|---|
| Will you perform a Manual J load calculation before sizing the heat pump? | Yes. We calculate heating and cooling load based on home size, insulation, windows, orientation, ductwork, and infiltration. | We just replace the existing furnace with the same tonnage system. |
| Will you inspect ducts before specifying the heat pump? | Yes. We inspect duct size, leakage rate, return air paths, and airflow because heat pumps need good airflow at moderate static pressure. | Ducts are always fine; no need to check. |
| How do you decide system size in tons or BTU? | We explain tons and BTU using Manual J inputs, not just square footage. | We use 1 ton per 500 square feet as a rule of thumb. |
| What refrigerant does the system use, and is it compliant with current EPA rules? | We specify the refrigerant (R-454B or R-32 for new systems after the EPA A2L transition) and confirm it meets current code. | Refrigerant does not affect homeowners. |
| Are you a TECH Clean California enrolled contractor, and is the program currently funded for heat pump HVAC? | We verify current TECH Clean California program status (single-family Phase I has been fully reserved since November 2025) and explain whether it applies before signing. | TECH always pays out; assume the rebate is yours. |
| Does my household income make us eligible for HEEHRA, and what does that involve? | We confirm income eligibility (below 80 percent AMI or 80 to 150 percent AMI), explain pre-approval is required, and verify program status (Phase I single-family is currently fully reserved per CEC as of 2026-02-24). | HEEHRA covers everyone; you qualify automatically. |
| LA has very different climate by neighborhood. How do you size for our specific area? | LA microclimates split coarsely into coastal (Santa Monica, Venice, Pacific Palisades) with mild summers and ASHRAE 99% heating design temps near 44-46F, basin / mid-city (Hollywood, Mid-Wilshire, Koreatown) which run warmer in summer, San Fernando Valley (Van Nuys, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Burbank-border) with hot summers above 100F and design heating near 38-42F, and San Gabriel Valley / Foothills (Pasadena, Eagle Rock, Highland Park) intermediate. We run Manual J using the ASHRAE 99% station closest to your address and document the assumption; cooling load drives sizing far more than heating in most LA neighborhoods. We share the Manual J output. | LA is all the same climate; one ton per 500 square feet. |
| Our 1940s LA bungalow has a wall furnace and no central ducts. Ducted or ductless? | A large share of older LA single-family stock (Spanish, Craftsman bungalow, mid-century) was built with wall or floor furnaces and no central ductwork. Retrofitting central ducts means losing closet or attic depth and meeting Title 24 duct-leakage requirements; ductless multi-split is often the more honest path: one outdoor unit, one indoor head per zone, low static-pressure losses, and zone-by-zone control. The LADWP CRP rebate tier differs between ducted and ductless; we model both and share the cost-benefit. Ductless typically wins on cost and time for no-ducts retrofits. | We always recommend ducted central; that is what families want. |
| Do LA's seismic requirements affect how the outdoor unit or indoor air handler is mounted? | Yes. California Building Code Chapter 16A and LADBS seismic detailing require that outdoor condensers, indoor air handlers, and any rooftop equipment be anchored to resist seismic acceleration appropriate for the LA seismic design category. We use anchor sizes per the manufacturer install manual and the LADBS seismic detail, including snubbers or restraint straps for ductless wall units in earthquake bracing for the wall mount. We document the anchor schedule in the permit set. Older LA homes with unreinforced masonry or soft-story conditions may need additional engineering input. | Seismic strap requirements only apply to water heaters in California. |
| Our home is in the Hollywood Hills CAL FIRE Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Does that affect equipment siting? | Addresses in the CAL FIRE Very High FHSZ (much of the Hollywood Hills, Brentwood, Bel Air, Pacific Palisades, Topanga, Sherman Oaks Hills) fall under California Residential Code Chapter R337 for wildfire-resistant construction. Outdoor condenser siting in zone-0 (the first 5 feet of defensible space) needs ignition-resistant placement; intake louvers may need spark-arrestor screening; combustible landscaping must be cleared per defensible-space rules. We verify the FHSZ designation against the address through the CAL FIRE viewer, document the citation, and site the equipment accordingly. | WUI rules only apply to new construction. |
| Which refrigerant are you specifying and what does A2L safety mean for an LA install? | Effective January 1, 2025, AIM Act-driven federal rules require new residential heat pumps to use R-454B or R-32 (both A2L mildly-flammable refrigerants) instead of R-410A. Manufacturers have shifted accordingly. A2L refrigerants are safe when installed per the manufacturer install manual; indoor charge limits, leak-detection sensor requirements on ducted systems, and equipment-room ventilation rules apply. We document the refrigerant, the charge, and any required leak-detection sensor in the proposal and confirm LADBS will sign off. | R-410A is fine; we'll just use what we have in the truck. |
| If we go all-electric, what happens to the gas furnace and the gas line? | When the gas furnace is removed and the home does not need gas service for water heating, cooking, or laundry, the gas line to the furnace is capped, labeled, and pressure-tested per California Plumbing Code. Full meter removal (a SoCalGas service request) is the homeowner's choice and saves the monthly SoCalGas service charge. We document the cap location and capping detail in the permit set. We do not yank the gas line without a permit and inspection. | We just disconnect the gas; SoCalGas does not care. |
| Do you run Manual S and Manual D in addition to Manual J, and do I get the outputs? | Manual J sets the load; Manual S selects equipment to meet that load (capacity at design conditions, modulation range, defrost behavior); Manual D sizes ducts to deliver airflow without static-pressure penalties. Many older LA homes inherit undersized return ducts that throttle airflow no matter the equipment. We run all three and share the outputs, including any required duct modifications as a separate line item. Skipping Manual S or D is how a right-sized system underperforms by 20-30 percent. | Manual J is enough; everything else is overkill. |
| Where will the outdoor unit go and is there an LA noise ordinance to worry about? | Los Angeles Municipal Code Chapter 11.12 (Citywide Noise Ordinance) limits residential property-line noise to 50 dBA at night in most R-1 zones. A modern inverter outdoor unit runs 55-65 dBA at 3 feet; with setback distance, sound-isolation pads, and orientation away from neighbor bedrooms it generally meets the ordinance. We document the unit sound rating, the proposed setback, and any sound-isolation hardware in the proposal. We do not place the unit somewhere we have not verified meets the ordinance. | Just put it wherever; LA does not enforce the noise rule. |
| What does commissioning look like at the end of the job and do I get the report? | At commissioning we verify static pressure with a manometer (target around 0.5 in.w.c. on most residential ducted systems), set airflow via measurement at each register, verify charge by superheat or subcooling per manufacturer spec for R-454B or R-32, log compressor amp draw, and confirm thermostat communication. We provide a signed commissioning sheet with measured values. Without commissioning even a right-sized system can underperform 20-30 percent. The LADBS final inspection card is separate from the commissioning sheet. | Commissioning is an upsell; modern equipment self-tunes. |
| What warranty terms apply and does our coastal address affect equipment lifespan? | Typical residential warranties on R-454B / R-32 heat pumps run 10 years parts and 1-2 years labor when registered with the manufacturer within 60 days; some platforms (Mitsubishi Diamond Contractor, Daikin Comfort Pro) extend labor to 10-12 years when installed by certified contractors. Outdoor units within roughly 1-2 miles of the Pacific (Santa Monica, Venice, Pacific Palisades, Palos Verdes side of LA) see salt-air exposure; we either specify the manufacturer coastal package (corrosion-resistant coil and fins) or document why standard equipment is appropriate. We register the warranty on your behalf and share confirmation. | Warranty is automatic; the salesperson handles it. |
| We are in the San Fernando Valley and summers regularly hit 105F. Does that affect sizing? | Yes. San Fernando Valley addresses (Van Nuys, North Hollywood, Burbank-border, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Northridge) have ASHRAE 1% summer design temps in the 95-100F range, with extreme days touching 105-110F. Heat pumps lose some capacity above 95F outdoor, so equipment selection at the cooling-design point is what matters. We confirm the rated cooling capacity at your specific ASHRAE 1% design temp from the manufacturer extended performance data, not just at the AHRI nominal 95F. We also confirm the refrigerant charge band at high ambient. We document both in the proposal. | AHRI 95F rating is all you need to look at. |
Questions for electricians
| Question | Good response | Bad response |
|---|---|---|
| What is my panel size and service size, and is it adequate for adding a heat pump? | We inspect the panel labels and main breaker on site, explain whether 100A, 125A, 150A, or 200A is adequate, and verify the service drop matches the panel. | We guess from a photo only; no on-site inspection. |
| Can we avoid a service upgrade by using smart load management? | Possibly. We will perform a formal Article 220 load calculation, propose smart load management for HVAC + EV + water heater coordination, and explain the tradeoff vs upgrading. | You always need 200A; no calculation needed. |
| Will the heat pump need a new dedicated circuit, and what breaker size? | Yes, the outdoor unit and air handler each typically need dedicated circuits at the breaker sizes the manufacturer specifies (often 30-50A for outdoor, 15-30A for indoor). | Any spare breaker will work. |
| Our older LA home has a 100A panel. Will it accept the heat pump? | A typical 3-4 ton heat pump needs a 30-50A 240V circuit. Whether a 100A panel handles the new circuit depends on your existing NEC 220 load calc: connected loads minus diversity, range, dryer, water heater, lighting, plus the new HP. If the calc shows the panel is at or over its rated capacity we have three paths: a panel upgrade to 200A through LADBS plus LADWP service-conductor coordination, an NEC 750 load management device that throttles the HP during peak draw to fit the existing panel, or a smart-meter-class energy-monitoring approach. We run the NEC 220 calc, share it, and present the options with costs. | 100A is fine; just install the breaker. |
General questions for every contractor
| Question | Good response | Bad response |
|---|---|---|
| Can you separate confirmed incentives from assumed incentives in the quote? | Yes. We mark each incentive as confirmed (with program ID and current reservation status) versus assumed (subject to verification before contract). | All listed incentives are yours. |
| Does the federal Section 25C tax credit apply to my installation? | Section 25C expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Installations completed in 2026 or later do not qualify for §25C. | You'll get the federal credit on your taxes. |
| Are BayREN Home+ rebates available for this installation? | BayREN Home+ may apply for Bay Area homeowners; we verify the program is currently funded and that the equipment qualifies before submitting. | BayREN always pays out automatically. |
| What is the equipment and labor warranty, and what voids it? | We provide the manufacturer warranty (typically 10 years parts when registered) plus our labor warranty (1-2 years standard); we explain what voids coverage including improper electrical, missing filters, and skipped annual service. | The warranty covers everything forever. |
| What is the best next step before signing a contract? | Schedule a site visit and Manual J load calculation, get a written quote with line-item pricing, verify all incentive reservation requirements, and confirm permit handling. | Sign today to lock in pricing before incentives expire. |
| Our address is in the City of LA on LADWP, not SCE. How does that change the rebate and rate-plan picture for a heat pump? | LADWP is a municipal utility, separate from the IOU stack (PG&E, SCE, SDG&E). That means LADWP runs its own Consumer Rebate Program for HP HVAC, its own EV charger rebate (Charge Up LA), and its own SGIP-equivalent for storage via the LADWP RSSE budget. NEM 3.0 does not apply on LADWP; LADWP runs its own net metering. We verify your meter is on LADWP versus SCE before writing the proposal, because LA County addresses split between LADWP, SCE plus CPA, and a few city-owned utilities (Pasadena Water and Power, Glendale Water and Power, Burbank Water and Power). The rebate stack changes accordingly. | All California utilities work the same. |
| What does the LADWP Consumer Rebate Program pay for a heat pump HVAC install in 2026? | The LADWP Consumer Rebate Program offers up to $2,500 per ton for qualifying central, split, mini-split, or multi-split heat pump HVAC systems, with the rebate amount tied to system type (ducted versus ductless) and to SEER2 / HSPF2 efficiency tiers. Applications must be postmarked within 12 months of purchase, the meter must be active on LADWP, and funding is limited (rebates are not promised). We reserve, document the reservation amount in the proposal, and confirm the tier before equipment is ordered. We confirm via ladwp.com/crp. | LADWP automatically gives you $2,500 per ton. |
| Who pulls the LADBS mechanical and electrical permits and how do I see them? | We pull the mechanical permit at LADBS through ePlanLA or PermitLA (ladbs.org), plus a separate electrical permit if the new circuit requires it. Many residential HP HVAC swaps qualify for the LADBS Express Permit route when the equipment is like-for-like in capacity and no structural change is required; we use Express Permit when eligible. You receive the permit numbers, application copies, the inspection schedule, and final card sign-offs. Permit fees are itemized in the proposal, not bundled into labor. Note the General Plan Maintenance Surcharge increases from 7 to 10 percent effective June 9, 2026, which slightly raises plan-check fees; we use current rates. | LADBS rarely inspects HVAC swaps; we skip the permit. |
| Does the SCAQMD Rule 1146.2 zero-emission rule affect a residential heat pump install? | SCAQMD Rule 1146.2 (adopted June 2024) covers water heaters and boilers rated 75,000 to 2 million BTU/hr (small commercial boilers, large water heaters in multifamily, all tankless), with first compliance dates beginning January 1, 2026. The rule does not apply to residential furnaces of any size, and does not apply to most residential storage water heaters with tanks. For a single-family heat pump HVAC replacement in LA, 1146.2 does not gate the choice. We document the rule citation in the proposal so you can verify; for a separate water-heater scope we revisit applicability for tankless units. | SCAQMD bans gas furnaces statewide. |
| Does adding a heat pump push us onto an LADWP TOU rate plan? | Adding a heat pump does not by itself move you to TOU. LADWP residential TOU options exist (the R-1B TOU plan in particular) with High Peak weekdays 1pm-5pm, Low Peak 10am-1pm plus 5pm-8pm, and Base period 8pm-10am plus all weekend; summer rates apply June through September. The choice depends on your usage shape. We model your 12 months of LADWP bill data on TOU versus the default tier and share the comparison so you can choose. Switching is a customer-initiated request to LADWP. Note LADWP's 2026 rates rose roughly 2.475 cents per kWh versus 2025 for the January-March band, so the model uses current numbers. | TOU is always cheaper if you have a heat pump. |
| We just moved from Glendale to LA. Are we on the same utility? | No, very likely not. Glendale Water and Power is a separate municipal utility from LADWP; Pasadena Water and Power and Burbank Water and Power are also separate municipals. SCE plus Clean Power Alliance covers most LA County unincorporated areas and several incorporated cities (Rolling Hills Estates, South Pasadena, others). The City of LA proper is LADWP. The rebate stack, rate plans, and net-metering rules differ on each. We verify by pulling a recent utility bill and reading the meter service before quoting. | Same county means same utility. |
| Should I expect the federal 25C credit on this heat pump? | The federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C) expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA, PL 119-21). Installations placed in service in 2026 or later are not eligible. We list the credit as expired in the proposal and do not deduct it from your project cost. If the system was placed in service before December 31, 2025 it may apply; we document the placed-in-service date. | 25C still applies; we deduct it from your quote. |
| What about HEEHRA and TECH Clean California for heat pumps in LA? | Both are statewide California programs that apply to LA addresses regardless of utility. HEEHRA (the federal IRA HOMES rebate, administered by the California Energy Commission) was fully reserved as of February 24, 2026; new applicants are waitlisted with no committed timeline. TECH Clean California was fully reserved on November 14, 2025. We list both at current reservation status (pending or waitlisted), not as confirmed savings, in the proposal. The LADWP Consumer Rebate Program is the active path for LA HP HVAC in 2026. | HEEHRA covers the whole project; just submit after install. |
Good vs reasonable vs bad answers
| Question | Good | Reasonable | Bad |
|---|---|---|---|
| Will you perform a Manual J load calculation before sizing the heat pump? | Yes. We calculate heating and cooling load based on home size, insulation, windows, orientation, ductwork, and infiltration. | We will run Manual J after a site visit and duct inspection. | We just replace the existing furnace with the same tonnage system. |
| Will you inspect ducts before specifying the heat pump? | Yes. We inspect duct size, leakage rate, return air paths, and airflow because heat pumps need good airflow at moderate static pressure. | We inspect ducts during install and modify if airflow targets are not met. | Ducts are always fine; no need to check. |
| How do you decide system size in tons or BTU? | We explain tons and BTU using Manual J inputs, not just square footage. | — | We use 1 ton per 500 square feet as a rule of thumb. |
| What refrigerant does the system use, and is it compliant with current EPA rules? | We specify the refrigerant (R-454B or R-32 for new systems after the EPA A2L transition) and confirm it meets current code. | — | Refrigerant does not affect homeowners. |
| Are you a TECH Clean California enrolled contractor, and is the program currently funded for heat pump HVAC? | We verify current TECH Clean California program status (single-family Phase I has been fully reserved since November 2025) and explain whether it applies before signing. | — | TECH always pays out; assume the rebate is yours. |
| Does my household income make us eligible for HEEHRA, and what does that involve? | We confirm income eligibility (below 80 percent AMI or 80 to 150 percent AMI), explain pre-approval is required, and verify program status (Phase I single-family is currently fully reserved per CEC as of 2026-02-24). | HEEHRA may apply if eligibility is verified after a site visit and income documentation. | HEEHRA covers everyone; you qualify automatically. |
| What is my panel size and service size, and is it adequate for adding a heat pump? | We inspect the panel labels and main breaker on site, explain whether 100A, 125A, 150A, or 200A is adequate, and verify the service drop matches the panel. | — | We guess from a photo only; no on-site inspection. |
| Can we avoid a service upgrade by using smart load management? | Possibly. We will perform a formal Article 220 load calculation, propose smart load management for HVAC + EV + water heater coordination, and explain the tradeoff vs upgrading. | We need to see your panel labels and load history before recommending. | You always need 200A; no calculation needed. |
| Will the heat pump need a new dedicated circuit, and what breaker size? | Yes, the outdoor unit and air handler each typically need dedicated circuits at the breaker sizes the manufacturer specifies (often 30-50A for outdoor, 15-30A for indoor). | — | Any spare breaker will work. |
| Can you separate confirmed incentives from assumed incentives in the quote? | Yes. We mark each incentive as confirmed (with program ID and current reservation status) versus assumed (subject to verification before contract). | — | All listed incentives are yours. |
| Does the federal Section 25C tax credit apply to my installation? | Section 25C expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21). Installations completed in 2026 or later do not qualify for §25C. | — | You'll get the federal credit on your taxes. |
| Are BayREN Home+ rebates available for this installation? | BayREN Home+ may apply for Bay Area homeowners; we verify the program is currently funded and that the equipment qualifies before submitting. | — | BayREN always pays out automatically. |
| What is the equipment and labor warranty, and what voids it? | We provide the manufacturer warranty (typically 10 years parts when registered) plus our labor warranty (1-2 years standard); we explain what voids coverage including improper electrical, missing filters, and skipped annual service. | — | The warranty covers everything forever. |
| What is the best next step before signing a contract? | Schedule a site visit and Manual J load calculation, get a written quote with line-item pricing, verify all incentive reservation requirements, and confirm permit handling. | — | Sign today to lock in pricing before incentives expire. |
| Our address is in the City of LA on LADWP, not SCE. How does that change the rebate and rate-plan picture for a heat pump? | LADWP is a municipal utility, separate from the IOU stack (PG&E, SCE, SDG&E). That means LADWP runs its own Consumer Rebate Program for HP HVAC, its own EV charger rebate (Charge Up LA), and its own SGIP-equivalent for storage via the LADWP RSSE budget. NEM 3.0 does not apply on LADWP; LADWP runs its own net metering. We verify your meter is on LADWP versus SCE before writing the proposal, because LA County addresses split between LADWP, SCE plus CPA, and a few city-owned utilities (Pasadena Water and Power, Glendale Water and Power, Burbank Water and Power). The rebate stack changes accordingly. | We confirm whether your service address is on LADWP versus SCE before quoting because the rebate stack changes; for City of LA addresses it is almost always LADWP. | All California utilities work the same. |
| What does the LADWP Consumer Rebate Program pay for a heat pump HVAC install in 2026? | The LADWP Consumer Rebate Program offers up to $2,500 per ton for qualifying central, split, mini-split, or multi-split heat pump HVAC systems, with the rebate amount tied to system type (ducted versus ductless) and to SEER2 / HSPF2 efficiency tiers. Applications must be postmarked within 12 months of purchase, the meter must be active on LADWP, and funding is limited (rebates are not promised). We reserve, document the reservation amount in the proposal, and confirm the tier before equipment is ordered. We confirm via ladwp.com/crp. | We confirm the LADWP CRP rebate tier (ducted versus ductless, SEER2 / HSPF2) and document the reservation; the program is funding-limited so we do not promise a specific payout. | LADWP automatically gives you $2,500 per ton. |
| LA has very different climate by neighborhood. How do you size for our specific area? | LA microclimates split coarsely into coastal (Santa Monica, Venice, Pacific Palisades) with mild summers and ASHRAE 99% heating design temps near 44-46F, basin / mid-city (Hollywood, Mid-Wilshire, Koreatown) which run warmer in summer, San Fernando Valley (Van Nuys, Sherman Oaks, Encino, Burbank-border) with hot summers above 100F and design heating near 38-42F, and San Gabriel Valley / Foothills (Pasadena, Eagle Rock, Highland Park) intermediate. We run Manual J using the ASHRAE 99% station closest to your address and document the assumption; cooling load drives sizing far more than heating in most LA neighborhoods. We share the Manual J output. | We run Manual J with the right ASHRAE station for your LA neighborhood and share the output; cooling load typically drives sizing in LA. | LA is all the same climate; one ton per 500 square feet. |
| Who pulls the LADBS mechanical and electrical permits and how do I see them? | We pull the mechanical permit at LADBS through ePlanLA or PermitLA (ladbs.org), plus a separate electrical permit if the new circuit requires it. Many residential HP HVAC swaps qualify for the LADBS Express Permit route when the equipment is like-for-like in capacity and no structural change is required; we use Express Permit when eligible. You receive the permit numbers, application copies, the inspection schedule, and final card sign-offs. Permit fees are itemized in the proposal, not bundled into labor. Note the General Plan Maintenance Surcharge increases from 7 to 10 percent effective June 9, 2026, which slightly raises plan-check fees; we use current rates. | We pull LADBS permits through ePlanLA, use Express Permit when eligible, and share copies on submission. | LADBS rarely inspects HVAC swaps; we skip the permit. |
| Does the SCAQMD Rule 1146.2 zero-emission rule affect a residential heat pump install? | SCAQMD Rule 1146.2 (adopted June 2024) covers water heaters and boilers rated 75,000 to 2 million BTU/hr (small commercial boilers, large water heaters in multifamily, all tankless), with first compliance dates beginning January 1, 2026. The rule does not apply to residential furnaces of any size, and does not apply to most residential storage water heaters with tanks. For a single-family heat pump HVAC replacement in LA, 1146.2 does not gate the choice. We document the rule citation in the proposal so you can verify; for a separate water-heater scope we revisit applicability for tankless units. | Rule 1146.2 does not apply to residential furnaces; we document the citation and reassess if a tankless water heater is in scope. | SCAQMD bans gas furnaces statewide. |
| Our 1940s LA bungalow has a wall furnace and no central ducts. Ducted or ductless? | A large share of older LA single-family stock (Spanish, Craftsman bungalow, mid-century) was built with wall or floor furnaces and no central ductwork. Retrofitting central ducts means losing closet or attic depth and meeting Title 24 duct-leakage requirements; ductless multi-split is often the more honest path: one outdoor unit, one indoor head per zone, low static-pressure losses, and zone-by-zone control. The LADWP CRP rebate tier differs between ducted and ductless; we model both and share the cost-benefit. Ductless typically wins on cost and time for no-ducts retrofits. | Ductless multi-split usually wins for no-duct LA bungalows; we model both options and share the cost comparison. | We always recommend ducted central; that is what families want. |
| Do LA's seismic requirements affect how the outdoor unit or indoor air handler is mounted? | Yes. California Building Code Chapter 16A and LADBS seismic detailing require that outdoor condensers, indoor air handlers, and any rooftop equipment be anchored to resist seismic acceleration appropriate for the LA seismic design category. We use anchor sizes per the manufacturer install manual and the LADBS seismic detail, including snubbers or restraint straps for ductless wall units in earthquake bracing for the wall mount. We document the anchor schedule in the permit set. Older LA homes with unreinforced masonry or soft-story conditions may need additional engineering input. | We follow LADBS seismic anchoring per the install manual and document the anchor schedule in the permit; URM or soft-story homes may need extra engineering review. | Seismic strap requirements only apply to water heaters in California. |
| Our home is in the Hollywood Hills CAL FIRE Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Does that affect equipment siting? | Addresses in the CAL FIRE Very High FHSZ (much of the Hollywood Hills, Brentwood, Bel Air, Pacific Palisades, Topanga, Sherman Oaks Hills) fall under California Residential Code Chapter R337 for wildfire-resistant construction. Outdoor condenser siting in zone-0 (the first 5 feet of defensible space) needs ignition-resistant placement; intake louvers may need spark-arrestor screening; combustible landscaping must be cleared per defensible-space rules. We verify the FHSZ designation against the address through the CAL FIRE viewer, document the citation, and site the equipment accordingly. | We verify the FHSZ designation and site the outdoor unit per CRC R337 for hillside installs. | WUI rules only apply to new construction. |
| Which refrigerant are you specifying and what does A2L safety mean for an LA install? | Effective January 1, 2025, AIM Act-driven federal rules require new residential heat pumps to use R-454B or R-32 (both A2L mildly-flammable refrigerants) instead of R-410A. Manufacturers have shifted accordingly. A2L refrigerants are safe when installed per the manufacturer install manual; indoor charge limits, leak-detection sensor requirements on ducted systems, and equipment-room ventilation rules apply. We document the refrigerant, the charge, and any required leak-detection sensor in the proposal and confirm LADBS will sign off. | We specify R-454B or R-32 per current code and document the refrigerant, charge, and any required leak-detection sensor in the proposal. | R-410A is fine; we'll just use what we have in the truck. |
| Does adding a heat pump push us onto an LADWP TOU rate plan? | Adding a heat pump does not by itself move you to TOU. LADWP residential TOU options exist (the R-1B TOU plan in particular) with High Peak weekdays 1pm-5pm, Low Peak 10am-1pm plus 5pm-8pm, and Base period 8pm-10am plus all weekend; summer rates apply June through September. The choice depends on your usage shape. We model your 12 months of LADWP bill data on TOU versus the default tier and share the comparison so you can choose. Switching is a customer-initiated request to LADWP. Note LADWP's 2026 rates rose roughly 2.475 cents per kWh versus 2025 for the January-March band, so the model uses current numbers. | We model your usage on LADWP TOU versus default and share the comparison; switching is your call and is customer-initiated. | TOU is always cheaper if you have a heat pump. |
| We just moved from Glendale to LA. Are we on the same utility? | No, very likely not. Glendale Water and Power is a separate municipal utility from LADWP; Pasadena Water and Power and Burbank Water and Power are also separate municipals. SCE plus Clean Power Alliance covers most LA County unincorporated areas and several incorporated cities (Rolling Hills Estates, South Pasadena, others). The City of LA proper is LADWP. The rebate stack, rate plans, and net-metering rules differ on each. We verify by pulling a recent utility bill and reading the meter service before quoting. | We verify by reading a recent utility bill before quoting; LA County splits across LADWP, SCE plus CPA, and multiple smaller municipals. | Same county means same utility. |
| Should I expect the federal 25C credit on this heat pump? | The federal Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C) expired December 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA, PL 119-21). Installations placed in service in 2026 or later are not eligible. We list the credit as expired in the proposal and do not deduct it from your project cost. If the system was placed in service before December 31, 2025 it may apply; we document the placed-in-service date. | 25C expired December 31, 2025 under OBBBA; we do not deduct it for 2026 installs. | 25C still applies; we deduct it from your quote. |
| What about HEEHRA and TECH Clean California for heat pumps in LA? | Both are statewide California programs that apply to LA addresses regardless of utility. HEEHRA (the federal IRA HOMES rebate, administered by the California Energy Commission) was fully reserved as of February 24, 2026; new applicants are waitlisted with no committed timeline. TECH Clean California was fully reserved on November 14, 2025. We list both at current reservation status (pending or waitlisted), not as confirmed savings, in the proposal. The LADWP Consumer Rebate Program is the active path for LA HP HVAC in 2026. | HEEHRA and TECH are both fully reserved as of early 2026; we list them at current reservation status, not as confirmed. | HEEHRA covers the whole project; just submit after install. |
| If we go all-electric, what happens to the gas furnace and the gas line? | When the gas furnace is removed and the home does not need gas service for water heating, cooking, or laundry, the gas line to the furnace is capped, labeled, and pressure-tested per California Plumbing Code. Full meter removal (a SoCalGas service request) is the homeowner's choice and saves the monthly SoCalGas service charge. We document the cap location and capping detail in the permit set. We do not yank the gas line without a permit and inspection. | We cap and label the gas line per CPC and document the detail; meter removal is your call and a separate SoCalGas service request. | We just disconnect the gas; SoCalGas does not care. |
| Do you run Manual S and Manual D in addition to Manual J, and do I get the outputs? | Manual J sets the load; Manual S selects equipment to meet that load (capacity at design conditions, modulation range, defrost behavior); Manual D sizes ducts to deliver airflow without static-pressure penalties. Many older LA homes inherit undersized return ducts that throttle airflow no matter the equipment. We run all three and share the outputs, including any required duct modifications as a separate line item. Skipping Manual S or D is how a right-sized system underperforms by 20-30 percent. | Manual S and D drive equipment selection and duct sizing; we share the outputs. | Manual J is enough; everything else is overkill. |
| Where will the outdoor unit go and is there an LA noise ordinance to worry about? | Los Angeles Municipal Code Chapter 11.12 (Citywide Noise Ordinance) limits residential property-line noise to 50 dBA at night in most R-1 zones. A modern inverter outdoor unit runs 55-65 dBA at 3 feet; with setback distance, sound-isolation pads, and orientation away from neighbor bedrooms it generally meets the ordinance. We document the unit sound rating, the proposed setback, and any sound-isolation hardware in the proposal. We do not place the unit somewhere we have not verified meets the ordinance. | We site the outdoor unit for the LAMC Chapter 11.12 noise limit and document the dBA at the property line in the proposal. | Just put it wherever; LA does not enforce the noise rule. |
| What does commissioning look like at the end of the job and do I get the report? | At commissioning we verify static pressure with a manometer (target around 0.5 in.w.c. on most residential ducted systems), set airflow via measurement at each register, verify charge by superheat or subcooling per manufacturer spec for R-454B or R-32, log compressor amp draw, and confirm thermostat communication. We provide a signed commissioning sheet with measured values. Without commissioning even a right-sized system can underperform 20-30 percent. The LADBS final inspection card is separate from the commissioning sheet. | We commission and share the signed sheet; airflow, charge, and static pressure are measured. | Commissioning is an upsell; modern equipment self-tunes. |
| What warranty terms apply and does our coastal address affect equipment lifespan? | Typical residential warranties on R-454B / R-32 heat pumps run 10 years parts and 1-2 years labor when registered with the manufacturer within 60 days; some platforms (Mitsubishi Diamond Contractor, Daikin Comfort Pro) extend labor to 10-12 years when installed by certified contractors. Outdoor units within roughly 1-2 miles of the Pacific (Santa Monica, Venice, Pacific Palisades, Palos Verdes side of LA) see salt-air exposure; we either specify the manufacturer coastal package (corrosion-resistant coil and fins) or document why standard equipment is appropriate. We register the warranty on your behalf and share confirmation. | Warranty terms are listed in the proposal; we register on your behalf and share confirmation. Coastal package applies for ocean-adjacent addresses. | Warranty is automatic; the salesperson handles it. |
| Our older LA home has a 100A panel. Will it accept the heat pump? | A typical 3-4 ton heat pump needs a 30-50A 240V circuit. Whether a 100A panel handles the new circuit depends on your existing NEC 220 load calc: connected loads minus diversity, range, dryer, water heater, lighting, plus the new HP. If the calc shows the panel is at or over its rated capacity we have three paths: a panel upgrade to 200A through LADBS plus LADWP service-conductor coordination, an NEC 750 load management device that throttles the HP during peak draw to fit the existing panel, or a smart-meter-class energy-monitoring approach. We run the NEC 220 calc, share it, and present the options with costs. | We run NEC 220 load calc and share it; if the panel is tight, we present panel upgrade, load management, or sub-panel options with costs. | 100A is fine; just install the breaker. |
| We are in the San Fernando Valley and summers regularly hit 105F. Does that affect sizing? | Yes. San Fernando Valley addresses (Van Nuys, North Hollywood, Burbank-border, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Northridge) have ASHRAE 1% summer design temps in the 95-100F range, with extreme days touching 105-110F. Heat pumps lose some capacity above 95F outdoor, so equipment selection at the cooling-design point is what matters. We confirm the rated cooling capacity at your specific ASHRAE 1% design temp from the manufacturer extended performance data, not just at the AHRI nominal 95F. We also confirm the refrigerant charge band at high ambient. We document both in the proposal. | We confirm cooling capacity at your Valley ASHRAE 1% design temp from manufacturer extended performance data and document it in the proposal. | AHRI 95F rating is all you need to look at. |
Green flags, reasonable caveats, red flags
Green flags
- Manual J / S / D calculation provided with the LA ASHRAE 99 percent heating design temp for your specific neighborhood (~44-46F coastal, ~38-42F Valley)
- Service-area verification: confirms whether your address is LADWP, SCE plus CPA, or a smaller municipal (Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank) before quoting the rebate stack
- Inverter-driven heat pump with cooling capacity confirmed at your specific ASHRAE 1 percent design temp from manufacturer extended performance data (not just AHRI 95F)
- Refrigerant choice (R-454B / R-32) plus A2L safety and indoor leak-detection sensor specified
- LADWP Consumer Rebate Program HP HVAC tier (ducted vs ductless, SEER2 / HSPF2) reserved with reservation number from ladwp.com/crp
- LA seismic anchoring per LADBS detail and the manufacturer install manual documented in the permit set
Reasonable caveats
- Site visit required before final sizing and quote
- Many older LA bungalow and Spanish homes have no central ductwork; ductless multi-split is often the more honest path and is modeled honestly against a ducted retrofit
- TECH Clean California (closed November 14 2025) and HEEHRA (waitlisted as of February 24 2026) are listed at current status, not assumed as confirmed savings
- LADWP CRP funding is limited; rebate amounts are reserved, not promised
- Coastal addresses (within ~1-2 miles of the Pacific) may need the manufacturer coastal package for salt-air exposure
Red flags
- Quotes without Manual J or with rule-of-thumb sizing
- Bundled lump-sum with no permit-fee itemization
- Promises specific kWh savings without modeling your LADWP usage
- Lists §25C federal credit as applicable for 2026+ installs
- Skips LA seismic anchoring documentation
- Treats LADWP service as interchangeable with SCE plus CPA without verification
Quote checklist
Check every item before signing.
Required
Optional but recommended
Quote comparison worksheet
Print this and fill in by hand, or capture quotes side-by-side as you receive them.
| Line item | Contractor 1 | Contractor 2 | Contractor 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quote includes heat pump HVAC equipment model, capacity (tons / BTU), efficiency ratings (SEER2 / HSPF2), and warranty. (required) | |||
| Quote includes a Manual J load calculation, or commits to performing one before final sizing. (required) | |||
| Quote includes a duct inspection, return-air assessment, and any duct modifications needed. (required) | |||
| Quote includes electrical panel/service assessment and any load-calculation requirements. (required) | |||
| Quote explains whether a panel upgrade, service upgrade, or smart load management is needed. (required) | |||
| Quote separates confirmed incentives from assumed or maybe incentives with reservation requirements noted. (required) | |||
| Quote notes the refrigerant type and confirms it meets current EPA rules (R-454B / R-32 for systems installed after the A2L transition). | |||
| Quote notes the heat pump's published HSPF2 / COP at local design temperature and whether backup heat is required. (required) | |||
| Quote includes a startup / commissioning procedure: charge verification, airflow measurement, static pressure check. | |||
| Quote specifies the labor warranty (in addition to manufacturer parts warranty) and what voids each. | |||
| Quote names whether SCAQMD Rule 1146.2 affects any combustion appliance involved in the project (note: 1146.2 does not apply to residential furnaces). (required) | |||
| Quote acknowledges the LA neighborhood-microclimate sizing assumption (coastal vs basin vs San Fernando Valley vs foothill) used in Manual J. (required) | |||
| Quote names who pulls the LADBS mechanical and electrical permit (ladbs.org via ePlanLA / PermitLA), notes Express Permit eligibility, and itemizes the fee. (required) | |||
| Quote names the LADWP Consumer Rebate Program HP HVAC rebate reservation status and per-ton tier (ducted vs ductless, SEER2 / HSPF2) and includes the reservation number once confirmed. |
Incentive verification worksheet
| Program | Amount | Eligibility | Pre-approval? | Confidence | Verified | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (heat pumps) | Expired Dec 31, 2025. For 2023–2025: up to $2,000/yr (30% of project cost, capped) for qualifying heat pumps and heat pump water heaters. | EXPIRED: This federal credit ended Dec 31, 2025 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21, signed July 4, 2025). Installations completed in 2026 or later do not qualify, regardless of when payment was made. For installations completed during 2023–2025, the credit applied to U.S. primary residences with heat pumps or heat pump water heaters that met or exceeded the highest CEE efficiency tier in effect at the start of the install year; starting 2025, the manufacturer's Qualified Manufacturer Identification Number (QMID) was required on the tax return. Homeowners with eligible 2025 installations may still claim the credit on their 2025 federal tax return. Verify with a qualified tax professional. | Verify | high | 2026-05-30 | Internal Revenue Service, Internal Revenue Service, ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE) |
| California Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEEHRA) — single-family | When available, up to $8,000 (households below 80% AMI) or $4,000 (80–150% AMI) for a qualifying heat pump HVAC system, with additional rebates for heat pump water heaters, electrical panel upgrades, and wiring inside the per-household envelope. Phase I single-family funds are currently fully reserved (waitlist active). | PROGRAM STATUS: Single-family Phase I is FULLY RESERVED statewide as of 2026-02-24 — new single-family applications are not being accepted and a waitlist is in place. Multifamily applications remain open. Phase II is under development pending DOE approval. HEEHRA is California's implementation of the federal IRA Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates program, administered by the California Energy Commission (CEC) with single-family implementation through TECH Clean California. When open, eligibility requires income-qualified single-family homeowners (or landlords with income-qualified tenants) at or below 150% of Area Median Income; income tiers determine rebate amount (below 80% AMI vs 80–150% AMI). Projects must obtain an approved reservation before installation; rebates only apply to heat pumps installed after the reservation is approved. Income verification is required before a contractor can submit a reservation. Replacement of an existing non-heat-pump space heating system is required for the HVAC rebate. Homeowners should check techcleanca.com and the CEC IRA rebate page for re-opening announcements before signing a contract. | Yes | high | 2026-06-08 | California Energy Commission (CEC), California Energy Commission (CEC) / Energy Solutions |
| TECH Clean California — heat pump HVAC incentive (single-family, market-rate) | Currently unavailable: single-family heat pump HVAC incentives are fully reserved as of 2026-05-30. Historical incentive amounts varied by utility service territory and customer income tier — verify against techcleanca.com for re-opening announcements. | PROGRAM STATUS: Single-family heat pump HVAC incentives are FULLY RESERVED as of 2025-11-14 — new single-family reservations are not being accepted. Multifamily program activity continues. TECH Clean California is a statewide CEC initiative administered by Energy Solutions under contract with Southern California Edison on behalf of California utilities under CPUC oversight, designed to accelerate adoption of clean space and water heating. When open, single-family eligibility requires the homeowner to be a customer of a participating California utility, the installation to use an enrolled TECH contractor (1,600+ contractors enrolled statewide), and the project to obtain a reservation before installation. Specific dollar amounts varied by service territory and income tier — refer to techcleanca.com for the next-funded round's amounts and any income-qualified bonus structure. Homeowners should not assume an incentive is available; verify current reservation status with techcleanca.com before signing a contract. | Yes | high | 2026-06-08 | California Energy Commission (CEC) / Energy Solutions, California Energy Commission (CEC) / Energy Solutions |
| California Equitable Building Decarbonization (EBD) Direct Install Program | No-cost direct-install upgrades for income-qualified households — homeowner does not pay out-of-pocket for covered measures. Measures may include heat pump HVAC, heat pump water heater, induction stove, electrical panel upgrade, and weatherization, subject to a per-household scope set by the regional implementer. | Administered by the California Energy Commission (CEC) as the statewide Equitable Building Decarbonization Direct Install Program, with delivery through regional implementers and a separate Tribal Direct Install track. Targets low- and moderate-income households in low-income communities; specific AMI thresholds and per-region eligibility rules are set by the regional implementer rather than statewide. Both single-family homeowners and renters in eligible buildings may qualify, though scope and contractor selection are determined by the implementer (homeowners do not freely choose contractors). The program is funded through California IRA HOMES funding (60% allocation to Direct Install, approximately $130.3M) plus state appropriations. Direct Install retrofits began rolling out in summer 2025. Homeowners interested in EBD should contact the CEC at equitablebuildingdecarb@energy.ca.gov or watch for their regional implementer's launch announcement; the program does not accept open online applications the way TECH or HEEHRA do. | Yes | medium | 2026-05-30 | California Energy Commission (CEC), California Energy Commission (CEC) |
| SCE Home Performance Plus (HPP) — geographic-eligible enhanced electrification rebates | Per-measure rebates (as reported via The Switch Is On clearinghouse): approximately $1,144.80/ton for heat pump mini-splits; approximately $667/ton for fuel-substitution HVAC; approximately $1,350 for heat pump water heater when replacing a gas unit; approximately $1.07/sq ft attic insulation, $1.06/sq ft wall insulation, $0.53/sq ft duct sealing; approximately $424 for induction cooktops; approximately $424/ton for air conditioner replacement. Verify current amounts and the qualifying-product list at the program site before signing a contract. | As of 2026-05-30 the program is active for geographically-eligible households. Eligibility requires the home to be located in a designated geographic-eligibility area (SB-535 disadvantaged community per the CalEnviroScreen map). IMPORTANT EXCLUSION: households currently enrolled in income-assistance programs (CARE, FERA, LIHEAP, or SCE's Energy Savings Assistance Program) may be ineligible for HPP — those households are typically routed to ESA for no-cost upgrades instead. HPP and ESA cannot be stacked on the same measure. Homeowners should verify both their geographic eligibility and their income-assistance enrollment status before signing a contract or applying. | Yes — projects typically require pre-approval before installation; verify the current application process at the program site. | medium | 2026-05-30 | The Switch Is On (CA statewide electrification clearinghouse), Southern California Edison |
| SCE Heat Pump HVAC Rebate — current status | Not currently available as a standalone universal SCE rebate. Geographic-eligible homeowners may qualify through HPP; income-qualified homeowners may qualify through ESA — see those records for amounts. | As of 2026-05-30 SCE does not advertise a standalone universal residential heat-pump HVAC rebate on its rebates index. Heat-pump HVAC incentives for SCE-served homes flow through four channels: (a) SCE Home Performance Plus (sce-home-performance-plus) — geographic-eligible households in SB-535 disadvantaged communities; (b) SCE Energy Savings Assistance Program (sce-energy-savings-assistance) — income-qualified households; (c) TECH Clean California (single-family fully reserved since November 14, 2025; see ca-tech-heat-pump-hvac); (d) HEEHRA-CA (single-family fully reserved since February 24, 2026; see ca-heehra-single-family). Homeowners who don't qualify for HPP or ESA must wait for TECH or HEEHRA to reopen, or use third-party regional programs. Homeowners may want to verify with SCE and check whether any successor universal-tier program has launched. | Verify | high | 2026-05-30 | Southern California Edison, Southern California Edison |
| LADWP Consumer Rebate Program — Heat Pump HVAC | As of 2026-05-30, for equipment purchased and installed on or after November 1, 2025, the LADWP Consumer Rebate Program (CRP) offers up to $2,500 per ton for qualifying heat pump HVAC systems. Eligible system types include central, split, mini-split, and multi-split heat pumps; packaged terminal heat pumps (PTHP) are not eligible. The per-ton amount varies by system type (ducted vs. ductless) and minimum efficiency thresholds (SEER2 and HSPF2). Homeowners should verify the exact tier their equipment qualifies for against the current CRP qualifying-products list before purchase. | Must be a LADWP residential customer with an active electric meter at the installation address. Equipment must meet CRP minimum efficiency requirements (SEER2 / HSPF2) and appear on the qualifying-products list. A paid, itemized invoice showing make/model, an AHRI Certificate Reference Number plus matching AHRI Certificate of product rating, and a final-approved LA Building & Safety permit are required to apply. Applications must be postmarked within 12 months of the purchase date. The rebate is post-installation (purchase and install first, then apply). | Verify | high | 2026-06-08 | Los Angeles Department of Water and Power |
| LADWP Customers and CPUC-IOU Programs — Eligibility Disclosure | As of 2026-05-30, LADWP residential customers are generally NOT eligible for the following CPUC-administered or IOU-funded California incentive programs, which are restricted to investor-owned utility (PG&E, SCE, SDG&E) customers: TECH Clean California (heat pump incentives — fully reserved as of Pass 2 in any case), HEEHRA-CA (single-family heat pump rebates — fully reserved single-family as of Pass 2), the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP — battery storage), Golden State Rebates (IOU joint program), and the CPUC NEM 3.0 / Net Billing Tariff for new solar interconnections. LADWP runs its own parallel rebate portfolio (Consumer Rebate Program for HVAC / water heating / cool roofs, Charge Up LA! for EV chargers, and its own net-metering tariff). Homeowners served by LADWP should look to the LADWP CRP rather than CPUC-IOU programs when scoping incentives. | Applies to all LADWP-served residential addresses. Homeowners who are unsure whether they are served by LADWP or SCE should check the utility name printed on their most recent electric bill — the eligible program set differs materially between the two utilities even within LA County. | Verify | high | 2026-05-30 | Los Angeles Department of Water and Power |
Permit verification worksheet
| Permit | Jurisdiction | Applies to | Confidence | Verified | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical + electrical permit | city | Heat Pump HVAC | high | 2026-05-31 | Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety, Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety, Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety |