It’s no secret that energy efficiency equals energy savings and reduced heating and cooling bills over the long term. Still, the initial expense of installing the most energy-efficient HVAC components for your household can be a costly affair. Luckily, in an effort to promote energy efficiency in U.S. homes, the Federal government has extended energy-based tax credits for 2011. That makes this the perfect time to consider upgrading your home HVAC system.
Tax credits of up to $300 are available on qualifying HVAC components. If you are interested in upgrading your cooling system, for example, air source heat pumps and central air conditioners may be eligible for tax credits of $300. Qualifying central air units must meet minimum SEER and EER requirements, and you must have a statement of certification from the manufacturer. In addition to minimum SEER and EER requirements, air source heat pumps, which produce up to four times the energy they consume, must also meet minimum HSPF requirements.
If you’re interested in upgrading to an oil, propane or natural gas furnace or hot water heater, you may be eligible for a return of $150. The model you install must have an AFUE rating of at least 95 percent to qualify. In addition, if the air blower in your new furnace accounts for less than 2 percent of the energy your furnace consumes, you may be eligible for a return of $50.
As you can see, 2011 is an opportune time to consider increasing the energy efficiency of your home HVAC system. Not only will you save money over the long term, but you’ll save money in the short-term as well. Of course, the best way to find HVAC components that are not only eligible for 2011 tax credits but are also appropriate for your household HVAC system is to contact a professional.
With over 30 years of service in the Dayton area, Ace Hardware Home Services have the experience necessary to guide you in upgrading to the most efficient HVAC system possible for your household. If you’re interested in a system upgrade, let our trained technicians help you take advantage of the 2011 tax credits today.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information, click here to download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Ace Hardware Home Services services the Ohio’s Miami Valley. To get started, check out our website or request an appointment.
