A dependable HVAC system is vital for a comfortable and energy-efficient home, but it’s also a big investment. You deserve the most productive comfort solutions possible, which is why HVAC rebates are so important. They can help make sure high-efficiency furnaces, air conditioners and other equipment is more affordable.
HVAC efficiency standards are increasing next year, so now’s a great time to compare your options. Various companies, organizations and even government entities are extending rebates in 2023 to help everyone secure a new, high-efficiency HVAC system.
Rebates for High-Efficiency Furnaces
Numerous manufacturers of high-efficiency furnaces provide rebates for a new system. These furnaces include energy-efficient components like variable-speed blower motors, which enable the thermostat to refine how much heating is released. It’s an easy way to reduce energy use overall. Local utilities also share furnace rebates because less energy use results in less strain on the local energy grid.
The government’s ENERGY STAR® program is also helpful for obtaining a furnace rebate. You can enter your ZIP Code to learn which rebates you could be eligible for. Equipment with the ENERGY STAR® rating means it meets your region’s standards for energy-efficient operation.
Rebates for Air Conditioning Systems
A lot of of the same rebates for high-efficiency furnaces are also useful for air conditioners. You can save hundreds on new installation for efficient cooling from a top brand like Lennox. Just talk to your local utility companies to find out which makes and models are eligible. What’s more, you can easily join federal and local rebates for even higher savings. Don’t hesitate to learn what's out there, because it can quickly add up to 10% of a new, high-efficiency cooling system
2023's Rebates for Smart Home Accessories Like Smart Thermostats
A smart thermostat is an especially valuable addition to your home comfort system. With intelligent programming, you can optimize the daily schedule. Utility companies appreciate this degree of efficiency, and so most offer rebate programs for new smart thermostats. In time, these rebates virtually allow you to get a free smart thermostat!
These utility companies also provide programs where they exchange discounted rates for the ability to access your thermostat during peak energy use. This helps avoid strain on the grid, especially when heat waves or cold fronts show up. When enrolled in this program, your thermostat can automatically be changed by a few degrees.
Other Cost-Saving Options: High Efficiency Products and Home Improvement Credits
A little different from rebates, tax credits are also offered for the purchase and installation of energy-efficient HVAC equipment. For example, the Inflation Reduction Act reactivated a program in 2021 that supplied credits for up to 10% of the project’s cost. The revised credits are now worth 30% of the cost and can be claimed every year instead of only once. These credits are available for a much larger variety of projects, like home energy audits, electrical, insulation, ventilation, and even your doors and windows! The programs are designed to share the most benefits for lower-income households, maximizing the improvements to HVAC efficiency across the country.
New Legislation for Heat Pump Rebates
The recently passed Inflation Reduction Act included separate legislation referred to as the High-Efficiency Electric Homes and Rebates Act, or HEEHRA. This incentive is especially aimed toward heat pump technology, which transfers heat instead of creating it by igniting fuel. To persuade more people to transition to this energy-efficient comfort system, these rebates are substantially higher compared to incentives for AC units and furnaces.
If your household’s income is lower than 80% of the local median, you can use the rebates to cover 100% of the costs of a new heat pump. Households that meet 80-150% of the average income can take care of 50% of equipment and installation costs.