Oil-to-Electric (Clean Heat) Program
- Assistance
- Up to $24,000 average one-time savings
- Deadline
- None
- Time to apply
- 30-40 mins
- Processing time
- Varies
- Age range
- All Ages
Overview
If you currently heat your home using an oil furnace, then you're aware of the increasing costs associated with this heating system. Our goal is to help lower your home's energy usage and reduce your utility costs by converting your oil furnace to an electric heating system. The Office of Housing receives funds from federal, state, and local sources to provide these improvements for FREE.
If you are eligible for our program, improvements could include:
- Oil-to-electric heated furnace conversion.
- Oil tank decommission.
- General health and safety inspections.
All applications for the Oil-to-Electric program are handled through the links on the Weatherization Program web page. Apply and see what other Weatherization improvements you may qualify for.
How much can I save with this program?
With this program, you can save $24,000 on the installation of a new heat pump and up to 50% of your seasonal heat expenses.
Eligibility
You are eligible if you:
- Are a homeowner or renter living within the jurisdiction of the City of Seattle.
- Eligibility will depend on income. The program has different income eligibility thresholds depending on the heat source (electricity, gas, or oil) and whether the housing is renter- or owner-occupied.
For more information, view the Weatherization and Home Repair Limits.
How to Apply
Clean Heat services are provided through federal, state, and local utility funding. All Clean Heat work is contracted and managed by the HomeWise Program and is FREE of charge for eligible households. Before applying, see if you are eligible for the Clean Heat Program by viewing the Income Limits page.
All applications for the Oil-to-Electric program are handled through the links on the Weatherization Program web page.
After you submit your application
If you are eligible, you will receive a phone call to schedule a time for a comprehensive home energy audit conducted by a trained and certified Property Rehabilitation Specialist from our HomeWise team. Our Specialist will identify potential energy-saving, health, and safety measures to be completed on your home during the audit. Then, our team will select and manage a private contractor to perform the work. After you apply and get approved, you can leave the rest to our team!
Learn More
Electrically heated homes have a variety of benefits, especially when it comes to your health and safety. Here are a few reasons why you should consider switching from oil to electric heat:
- Affordability: The price of oil fluctuates and tends to increase over time. By converting to an electrically heated home, you can save up to 40% on your regular heating costs, which will lower your energy bills and save you more money.
- Healthier Air Quality: Gas furnaces emit toxic pollutants that can cause or worsen respiratory illnesses, such as asthma. Heat pumps automatically filter the air and reduce the number of allergens entering your home.
- Reduce your Environmental Impact: Over time, heating oil contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel consumption.
- Less Maintenance: Heat pumps don’t require fuel and have lower maintenance requirements. Oil furnaces require regular maintenance, such as cleaning and filter replacement, which adds to the overall cost of ownership.
- Air Conditioning: In addition to heating your home, your new heat pump system will come with a cooling feature. No more hot Seattle summers!
- Safety & Reliability: Most older thermostats that control the temperature of oil-heated furnaces contain mercury, which is a poisonous material. Additionally, older thermostats don’t usually give the correct temperature and have shorter heating cycles.
Disclaimer: Only homeowners or renters living within the jurisdiction of Seattle may apply
Contact
HomeWise Team
Email: Healthyhome@seattle.gov
Phone: (206) 684-0244
Please include your name and address when leaving a voicemail or sending an email.