The city of San Francisco has launched a program that offers free electric water heaters and other incentives to eligible residents — a move that could improve home affordability and reduce household reliance on gas-powered appliances.
The free water heaters also come with free installation. Moreover, the program offers up to $3,000 worth of rebates for heat pump water heaters and additional rebates for upgrading electric panels and wiring to accommodate the appliances.
These incentives minimize the upfront costs of upgrades and help residents lower monthly energy bills — savings that can add up year after year.
In addition to helping families cut household costs, the program looks to support the local economy by fostering demand for electric appliance installation and maintenance jobs.
"This initiative is more than just an incentive program; it's a transformative effort to ensure cleaner air, lower harmful carbon pollution, and energy equity for all San Franciscans," according to a news release.
Gas-powered appliances, such as stoves, furnaces, and water heaters, produce harmful fumes, including carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. These pollutants contribute to unhealthy indoor air and worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma.
Replacing them with safer, more efficient electric alternatives can help residents improve indoor air quality.
San Francisco's initiative isn't the only program reducing reliance on gas. While many incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act could be slashed as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill, the IRA has offered similar rebates nationwide to encourage families to adopt more environmentally friendly household solutions.
Meanwhile, New York's Appliance Upgrade Program helps residents replace gas dryers with efficient electric heat pump models, offering income-based rebates and support for necessary electrical upgrades.
In Denver, Climate Action Rebates cover part of the cost of installing smart water heaters and heat pumps — making it easier for homeowners to cut energy bills and move away from gas.
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With access to cleaner technology, lower utility bills, and new green job opportunities, San Francisco's water heater program could help build a healthier, more affordable energy future. It's a step toward cutting pollution from household appliances, especially in urban communities.
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