The Wi-Fi® enabled thermostat is a relatively new product to the HVAC market that is already seeing great success. Wi-Fi enabled thermostats are adding additional benefits to homeowners that have not been enjoyed in the past. Depending on homeowner habits, a Wi-Fi enabled thermostat could potentially cut the cost of your next heating or cooling bill.
There are a few updates to Tax Credits and Incentives in 2015. The reinstated 2012 HVAC tax credits (25C) for certain equipment is now expired as of 12/31/2014. However, there are a few new incentives that homeowners should be aware of.
The breadth of electronics and other controls being displayed was astounding. I expected the majority of the show to be the traditional duct work, compressor, and system level components.
The air conditioning and heat pump efficiency regulations that went into effect on January 1, 2015 will only affect new equipment, including both the indoor and outdoor units. General repairs to an existing system should not be affected unless the whole indoor or outdoor units are replaced. For example, the cost of replacing a part or general maintenance costs should not be affected.
The new efficiency standards going into effect on 1/1/15 do not really address any questions about refrigerants directly. However, we believe the new regulations will have some indirect effects on demand for R22 dry charge systems since almost all of the dry charge units today are 13 SEER and there will be restrictions on where 13 SEER can be used after the regulations change.
The minimum allowable energy efficiency for residential air conditioners is changing on Jan. 1, 2015, as discussed in our last update on this topic. The Department of Energy (DOE) periodically increases energy efficiency standards as technology evolves and higher efficiency systems become more affordable.
As part of the final determination as to how the new air conditioning efficiency standards will be enforced, the Department of Energy-appointed “Regional Standards Enforcement Working Group” has made their recommendation on an enforcement plan for the new regional efficiency standards.
One of the items that is often overlooked during the planning and construction of a new home is the potential for an enhanced air conditioning (A/C) system. In many cases, the new homeowner is not aware of the various system options available beyond the system that comes standard with the house. Often home builders themselves are not educated on the potential value that an enhanced comfort A/C system can provide to a new homeowner.
We usually don’t spend too much time thinking about our AC systems. We just want them – and expect them – to work. And when the AC fails, we don’t think much about the replacement other than the fact that it needs to be replaced ASAP, and the fact that the cost involved wasn’t likely an expected expense. Five Good Reasons Why You Should Replace Your Old HVAC System in the Fall
Many homeowners decide to install heat pumps because of their high efficiency and reliability. It’s important to maintain your system in order to get the most out of your heat pump.
