Warning: Buyer beware! Many contractors are trying to use the 2009/2010 tax credits offered to consumers to "sweetening the deal" and close the sale. As with any government program, there are a lot of rules and regulations that you must follow. Before taking advantage of these tax credits, ensure you're not being taken advantage of by a salesperson who is ignorant of the specific requirements that must be met to qualify for a tax credit.
Take our industry for instance. I was discussing the tax credits associated with air conditioners, furnaces, and heat pumps with several salespeople. I was amazed how many didn't realize which makes and models DO NOT qualify. Unfortunately, they were basing their assumptions on equipment advertising pamphlets. Though these pamphlets explain the benefits, warranties, and options for a specific piece of heating or cooling equipment, they usually "estimate" the efficiency; especially air conditioners and heat pumps. You'll find two little words "up to" right before the SEER rating in also all equipment brochures and that can be misleading. The actual SEER is determined by the efficiency of the outside unit (called the condensing unit) coupled with the inside evaporator coil (refered to as the A-coil because of its shape), and blower type.
Some condensing units can acheive 15 SEER, but fall short of the required 16 SEER for the tax credit; and those that can meet the 16 SEER may not be able to achieve the 13 EER that is ALSO required. We have condensing units, when matched with a standard coil and single speed blower furnace, will not meet the tax credit requirements. But when that same condensing unit is matched with a high-efficiency coil and variable speed blower furnace, it WILL qualify. Now you're on your way to collecting $1500.00 on your 2009 tax return!
Heat pumps require three minimum efficiency ratings: 15 SEER, 12.5 EER, and 8.5 HSPF.
So how do you, the consumer, know what you're getting? How can you be sure that the heating and cooling units you're investing your hard-earned dollars in will qualify for the tax credits?
First, do your homework. Good contractors ensure their sales staff know how to size heating and cooling systems for your home and provide documentation stating the energy efficiency of your particular sytem. We provide ARI and GAMA certificates--demand them from all heating and cooling contractors.
Second, if you're making several energy improvements to your home, there are caps you can receive for 2009 and 2010 for specific improvements. Some improvements are exempt from these caps, so get all the facts. EnergyStar and Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) are two good resources.
If you have questions, email me! Or give me a call at 314.256.2693. I'd be happy to help you!
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2 comments:
The question I have is that you have to pay quite a bit more - possibly $2500 to get a $1500 credit - initially it might not make a lot of sense.
When you combine the $1500 tax credit with all the manufacturer rebates, utility company rebates, as well as contractor coupons, you may find the high-efficiency systems are actually cheaper than the next less efficient model. Even if it's a little higher, the savings you'll see on utilities will quickly give you a good return on your investment.
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