Cities and counties across California have a clear opportunity to improve air quality, fight climate change, and save residents money by adopting building code provisions that encourage or require new air conditioner replacements to be capable of both cooling and heating. These policies -- often called AC-to-Heat Pump reach codes -- ensure that when an air conditioner is replaced, or installed for the first time, in a single-family home, duplex, townhome, or commercial buildings with rooftop packaged units, it is a 2-way air conditioner, also known as a heat pump.
This simple update to local building codes can lock in long-term economic and health benefits for residents while supporting California’s state, regional, and local clean energy goals.
Why install heat pumps when replacing air conditioners?
The easiest and most affordable time for a household to switch to a heat pump is when their air conditioner is being replaced, rather than waiting for a furnace to fail. A heat pump can replace a central AC unit while also providing efficient heating, typically without major electrical upgrades or other costly changes required when replacing a gas furnace.
Ensuring that new air conditioners can operate as heat pumps helps building owners avoid missed upgrade opportunities and prevents homes and commercial buildings from being locked into fossil fuel systems for decades.
Use this form to urge your local elected officials to adopt heat pump-ready air conditioner policies that protect public health, reduce energy costs, and build a cleaner, more resilient future for our communities.