Heat Pumps Are the Upgrade, Contractors Are the Key

“Heat pumps are not an alternative — they’re an upgrade. 
They are the here and now, and the future.” 
- Participating Manufacturer Representative

These messages set the tone at NEEP’s recent heat pump contractor summits.  In partnership with the Energy Efficiency Alliance (EEA), NEEP co-hosted three HVAC contractor education events this Fall across Pennsylvania, beginning in Pittsburgh, moving to Harrisburg and finishing in Philadelphia.  

Since NEEP developed its original market transformation strategy for air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) in 2014, and reinforced it in our recent ASHP Market Assessment Report, HVAC contractors have consistently been key market partners. Contractors and installers are on the front lines guiding homeowners through HVAC decisions and driving adoption of new technologies.

To strengthen contractor knowledge and confidence in heat pump technology, NEEP leveraged its regional Heating Electrification Initiative and network to bring a series of contractor trainings to Pennsylvania.  The Summits focused on educating both new and seasoned HVAC installers about heat pump technology, its benefits and best practices for design and installation.

Why Pennsylvania? 
NEEP works with partners across 13 states from Washington, D.C. to Maine. While northern states such as in New England and New York have robust incentive programs and extensive training opportunities, Pennsylvania and New Jersey have had less contractor engagement.  

Our partnership with the EEA cemented Pennsylvania as a prime location for these Summits.  EEA’s strong local connections with trade schools, workforce programs, distributors and a growing contractor network helped us build and market the program effectively.

Inside the Contractor Summits: The Partners and the Content 
Each Summit was designed to move contractors from inspiration to action. We partnered with venues engaged in energy efficiency, such as Pittsburgh Gateways, the Clean Energy Center at Pennsylvania College of Technology and Universal Audenreid Charter High School. Collaborating with local and regional networks also helped to connect contractors with this opportunity.  

After opening remarks from event organizers set the tone, participants heard industry perspectives that highlighted the growing role of heat pumps in today’s market. Industry panels featured leading manufacturers including Daikin, Mitsubishi, and LG, who shared insights on technology trends and market opportunities.

From there, the program shifted into hands-on technical training, where contractors explored everything from customer consultations and home heating load assessments to design decisions, sizing strategies, and quality installation practices. The sessions emphasized real-world application, showing how ducted and ductless systems, partial or dual-fuel solutions, and proper commissioning can make or break performance.  

To round out the day, local utilities, including First Energy, PECO, and PPL, shared details on incentive programs available to contractors and their customers, ensuring attendees left not only with technical know-how but also with practical tools to help homeowners make the switch to heat pumps

Across three days, the Summits drew 100 attendees including five manufacturers, five utilities, and spanned three cities – covering 300 miles. 

Lessons Learned 
Reflecting on the logistics, program design and participant feedback, several key lessons emerged:

• The messenger matters: Contractors valued hearing from a lead trainer with real-world HVAC experience.
• It's not all or nothing: Heat pumps can be installed as a whole home or “dual fuel” solutions.  Leveraging contractors’ existing experience with central air conditioners (essentially one-way heat pumps) makes adoption more approachable.
• Economics resonate: Local analysis that compares heat pump costs and savings to alternatives equips contractors with persuasive, accurate information.
• New tools available: Contractors appreciated learning about emerging digital tools that simplify tasks like measuring airflow to system commissioning.
• Collaboration counts: Building relationships among contractors, manufacturers, utilities, and training partners proved essential. Attendees valued the chance to connect with peers and industry leaders, strengthening networks that will support ongoing adoption.

Looking Ahead 
Post-event surveys suggest the Summits will drive increased adoption of heat pumps.  Nearly all participating contractors reported an increased likelihood that they will be including heat pumps in their quotes going forward.  

Still, this is just the beginning.  Reaching 100 contractors in three days is impactful, but tens of thousands of HVAC contractors work across the region.  NEEP is hoping to hone this training model, expand its delivery to additional locations across the region, and continue deepening partnerships with local organizations, manufacturers, and utilities. Strong collaboration will remain the foundation for scaling contractor education and accelerating the transition to efficient, modern heating solutions.  

If you are interested in partnering to bring contractor education to your state or local market, please contact NEEP. Together, we can accelerate adoption of heat pumps and other advanced heating options.