Home electrification means replacing appliances that burn natural gas with efficient electric options. You can make upgrades over time as appliances need replacing and choose projects that fit your home, budget, and priorities.
Benefits of Going Electric
Greater comfort and efficiency. Heat pump heating and cooling systems can provide efficient, year-round temperature control. A heat pump works like an air conditioner that can run in both directions. In winter, it moves heat from the outdoor air into your home — even when it is cold outside. In summer, it reverses the process and moves heat out of your home. Because it transfers heat instead of creating it by burning fuel or using electric resistance, one system can provide efficient heating and cooling year-round.
Cleaner indoor air. Electric appliances do not burn fuel inside your home. Replacing gas appliances can reduce exposure to combustion-related pollutants and eliminate the risk of gas leaks from that equipment.
Lower emissions. Switching from fossil-fuel appliances to efficient electric models reduces household emissions. The environmental benefit grows as the electricity supply becomes cleaner.
Potential savings. Efficient equipment can lower energy use, while rebates and incentives may reduce upfront costs. Overall, electrification can help you save money on your monthly bill. Depending on eligibility, some incentives can be combined for additional savings.
How to Get Started
- Plan before equipment fails. Check the age and condition of your water heater, furnace, air conditioner, dryer, and cooking appliances. Researching replacements early gives you more time to compare options and incentives.
- Start with the right project. Common upgrades include heat pump heating and cooling, heat pump water heaters, induction cooktops, and electric dryers. Weather sealing and insulation can also improve comfort and help new equipment work efficiently.
- Check your electrical system. Older homes may need wiring or electrical-panel improvements. A qualified contractor can evaluate your home and identify what is needed.
- Find available savings. Answer a few questions in MCE’s Rebate and Incentive Finder to receive a customized list of rebates, tax credits, discounts, and financing options that may apply to your project.
- Choose an experienced professional. Use MCE’s Contractor Finder to search for licensed contractors by location and project type. If you want to use an MCE rebate, confirm eligibility and program requirements before installation begins.
- Get multiple quotes and ask questions. Compare equipment, total project cost, expected energy use, warranties, permitting, timelines, and available incentives. Ask whether rebates will be applied upfront or provided after completion.
