Rebates in San Antonio

A reliable HVAC system is vital for a comfortable and stress-free home, but it’s also a significant purchase. Each and every homeowner deserves top-notch climate control solutions, no matter their budget. That’s why HVAC rebates and other savings opportunities are so beneficial. By utilizing rebates, tax credits and various plans, you can make new installation more affordable. But before you get started, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you maximize these programs.

For example, HVAC systems’ energy efficiency is getting higher, so you’ll want to check the minimum ratings to get a better idea of what’s best for the climate. To qualify for these tax credits, the HVAC system needs to meet these requirements.

Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air can help simplify things for you. By sharing details about local HVAC rebates online, it becomes quicker for homeowners to save funds and hours on this crucial utility. We’ll also aid you in locating the perfect make and model to ensure you benefit the most from heat pump discounts, AC discounts and more.

How New Regulations Impact Energy Efficiency Ratings and HCFC Refrigerant

As solutions for climate control advance, so do our standards for energy-efficient heating and cooling. There are unique rating systems for heating and cooling units, and anything failing to reach these standards can only be sold or installed if they were manufactured before the cutoff date. Use these rating systems to quickly identify which models are eligible for rebates and tax credits.

HVAC Energy Efficiency Standards

Every 7 years, the U.S. Department of Energy updates the minimum efficiency regulations for HVAC systems. This time, there are new minimum efficiency standards homeowners should know. In Northern regions, non-compliant AC and heat pump systems manufactured before January 1, 2023, can still be sold and installed. However, in the Southeast and Southwest regions, non-compliant air conditioning systems are not allowed regardless of their manufacture date. Non-compliant heat pumps made before January 1, 2023, can still be sold and installed in these areas.

Better Understanding HVAC efficiency measurements is essential for both manufacturers and homeowners:

• SEER and SEER2: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio systems are for air conditioners, with the SEER2 ratings used for newer AC systems. The minimum for both SEER and SEER2 ratings differ by region across the United States, with hotter southern climates requiring greater efficiency ratings.
• EER: An analogous system to SEER, EER ratings focus only on the electric capacity of an AC or heat pump, comparing the BTUs against energy output in watts.
• HSPF and HSPF2: HSPF stands for Heating Seasonal Performance Factor and measures energy use with heat pumps, with HSPF2 being the newest standard for the latest designs.
• AFUE: The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency system demonstrates furnace efficiency by the amount of heat produced per dollar of fuel. Today’s minimum standards require an 81% AFUE rating or higher.

Minimum HVAC Efficiency Ratings for 2024

New EPA Refrigerant Regulations

A large part of why HVAC technology advanced was the need for safer, more efficient refrigerant. In the past, most air conditioners used something called R-22, more commonly known as Freon, for coolant. But this substance is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC), which was found to harm the ozone. The US started to remove HCFCs in the mid 1990s and passed the 2020 American Innovation and Manufacturing Act to speed up the replacement of HVAC equipment still using Freon and other HCFC refrigerants.

Lower First Expenses with Federal Tax Credits

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 has made it easier for homeowners to save on new HVAC equipment and other energy-efficient upgrades. Let’s explore how you can take advantage of these opportunities:

• Residential Energy Credits
• Household Energy Tax Credits

Home Energy Credits

You can apply for tax credits for eligible energy-efficient improvements such as HVAC systems and insulation as well as energy-efficient windows and doors. These credits help reduce the overall cost of home energy upgrades, making it more affordable to boost your home’s efficiency.

Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Credit

This credit recoups 30% of the cost of eligible home improvements, up to $1,200 annually. This extends to heating and cooling systems, energy-efficient windows and doors, and insulation. By using this incentive, you can upgrade to better home efficiency and enjoy sustained energy savings.

National Tax Credits and Deductions

The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 offers substantial financial incentives for certain energy upgrades, available through 2032. Homeowners can receive up to $3,200 annually, lowering the cost of energy-efficient home improvements by 30%.

Solar Energy Systems and Solar HVAC: With the Inflation Reduction Act, you can get a tax credit for 30% of the cost of installing clean energy systems like solar panels and solar-powered HVAC systems. This credit makes solar energy more accessible and affordable, spreading the use of renewable energy sources.

High-Efficiency Heat Pumps: The Act also offers incentives for purchasing and installing energy-efficient heat pump systems. incentives can cover a large part of the cost, making heat pumps especially attractive for boosting your home’s heating and cooling efficiency. Heat pumps are extremely efficient and can greatly lower your energy consumption and costs.