A decision tool, not a marketplace.

Why this exists

In late 2025 the Bay Area passed a new rule. Starting January 1, 2027, new gas water heaters sold and installed here have to be zero-NOx — basically, you have to switch to a heat pump (or one of a few new gas tankless models).

For homeowners, this is a mess. There’s no clear answer anywhere on what it means for yourhouse. Heat pumps cost twice as much as gas tanks upfront — but they qualify for up to $3,000 in rebates, and they’re cheaper to run. Some programs have funding. Others ran out months ago. Some homes qualify for exemptions. Most contractors will give you a different answer.

Switchboard Home is a tool to cut through that. Tell us a few things about your home and we’ll lay out your options, what each one costs, what rebates you can actually get, and whether you might qualify for an exemption.

How we make decisions

1. We cite our sources.Every rule, cost, and rebate has a link and a date. If something has changed, you’ll see when we last checked.
2. We show results before asking for an email. Run the calculator. See your options. No email required.
3. We use plain English. Anything technical gets explained the first time we use it.
4. We’re cautious.When we’re not sure, we say so and tell you to check with a contractor or the Bay Area air board.
5. We don’t favor any one contractor. Recommendations are based on your home, not on who pays us.

What we are not

• Not a contractor.We don’t install anything. We don’t take installation payments. We don’t manage the work.
• Not a marketplace.We don’t buy traffic from places like Angi and resell it. Our network is small on purpose.
• Not a regulator. The Bay Area air board, your utility, and your contractor make the final calls on eligibility, code, and rebates. We just help you understand them.

Get in touch

Spotted an error? Got a question we should answer in the FAQ? Are you a contractor wanting to join the network? Reach out. We respond within two business days.