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Central Air Conditioner

$100-$250 cash incentive

Keep units cool and comfortable by choosing an energy-efficient central air conditioner. High-efficiency central air conditioners are quieter and more convenient than room air conditioners and use 20 to 40% less energy than central air conditioners from 10 years ago.

To get started on your energy-efficient upgrade follow the steps below or contact a program representative.

  1. Establish your eligibility.

    Read More >
    • Property’s electricity must be provided by Portland General Electric or Pacific Power.
    • Cash incentives are available to Oregon multifamily attached residential properties with two or more units including: duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes; side-by-side units. For specific incentives based on your building type see the “Details” tab for further eligibility requirements.
    • Energy-saving improvements must meet program requirements
  2. Find a trade ally contractor or work with your own contractor.

    We can help you get started.

  3. Install equipment that meets the requirements listed on the Details tab.

  4. Complete and submit an incentive application with supporting documentation.

    • Proof of payment (invoice or receipt marked paid) and/or contractor’s invoice
    • A W-9 or Substitute W-9 form is required for investment properties.
    • Energy Trust must receive applications within 90 days from the date of purchase and installation.

    Download Application (PDF) Download Application (Doc)

    Send by Mail

    Energy Trust of Oregon
    Existing Multifamily Program
    111 SW Columbia St., Suite 945
    Portland, OR 97201

    Send by Fax
    503.243.1154

  5. Get your incentive.

    You should receive a cash incentive check within 6-8 weeks after all information is received.

    Note: A post-installation verification may be required.

Review the incentive application equipment specifications and requirements before starting your project.

For side-by-side, duplex, triplex and fourplex properties only Incentive Requirements
Central Air Conditioner $100 per unit 14.25-15.19 SEER2 rating


$250 per unit at least 15.2 SEER2 rating
  • For side-by-side or duplex, triplex, fourplex properties only.
  • Ask your contractor to verify the outdoor unit can be found on the qualifying products list and that the total system achieves a minimum 11.4 EER2 rating via the AHRI website to ensure your installation qualifies.
  • Heat pumps and portable air conditioners (room or window) do not qualify for this incentive.
  • The property’s electricity must be provided by a participating electric utility.
Where can I find a central air conditioner installer?

You can use the Find a Contractor Tool on Energy Trust’s website to search for Energy Trust trade ally contractors near you who install efficient central air conditioners.

Is this incentive available for single-family properties?

In addition to townhomes, duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes properties, the central air conditioner incentive is available for single-family homes. Visit the Energy Trust Residential webpage to learn more.

Do portable (room or window) air conditioners qualify?

No. This incentive is only available for central air conditioners that serve the majority of the residence.

Can I receive an incentive on multiple air conditioners installed at the home?

No. Only the system serving the majority of the home is eligible for an incentive.

Do I have to replace an existing air conditioner to receive this incentive?

No. This incentive is available for either new or replacement central air conditioners.

What is the difference between SEER & EER?

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER, applies to the average cooling efficiency of the equipment at 82 degrees F outdoors at different humidity levels with the equipment turning on and off. Energy Efficiency Ratio, or EER, applies to the efficiency of the air conditioner running at 95 degrees F outdoors and 50% humidity, which is a more realistic indicator for how the unit performs on the hottest days that they are used most.

How are SEER and EER ratings determined for central air conditioners?

The Air-Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) develops heating and cooling equipment standards, testing methodology, and certification requirements to determine performance ratings. The performance rating of an air conditioner is impacted by the outdoor condenser as well as both the indoor evaporator and air handler/furnace. In order for an air conditioning system to achieve a specific performance rating, all components stated on the AHRI certificate must be installed.

Do I have to upgrade my furnace to receive this incentive?

Maybe. Since the performance rating of an air conditioner may be affected by the indoor air handler/furnace (see above), it may be necessary to upgrade the existing furnace in order to achieve the required central air conditioner performance ratings (12 EER).

NW Natural residential customers may be eligible for an additional central air conditioner incentive when combined with a gas furnace replacement. Be sure to check the NW Natural website for current promotions.

How much does a new central air conditioner cost?

There are many factors that can impact the cost of a new central air conditioner, including the size of the system, unique characteristics of the home, options/features of the equipment, and difficulty of installation. The range of costs can be between $4,000-$8,000+. Energy Trust recommends customers contact multiple contractors when receiving a bid and consider requesting referrals from recent customers.

Does this incentive apply to heat pumps?

No. However, Energy Trust offers separate incentives for heat pumps for single-family residences and multifamily properties.

Can the air conditioner be paired with an oil or propane furnace?

Yes, depending on the actual equipment. The air conditioner incentive is available for Oregon customers of PGE and Pacific Power who heat their home with a forced air furnace of any fuel type. Energy Trust incentives are not intended to influence customer decisions on fuel sources.

Need Help? Contact Us.

We’re here to explain the process and benefits. Give us a call at 1.877.510.2130 or send us an email at multifamily@energytrust.org.