To combat increasing energy expenses and embrace sustainability, many homeowners are looking for ways to enjoy the same standards of comfort while reducing utility bills. Included in the Inflation Reduction Act, federal tax credits are available for upgrading to more efficient HVAC systems, such as air conditioners. These credits offer big savings, as long as the homeowners work with qualifying equipment and submit the right paperwork.
If you’re worried about a long, complicated process, maybe we can help! A2Z Air Inc hopes this guide will provide all the information necessary to take full advantage of HVAC tax credits this year. Here’s how.
How Do These Tax Credits Work?
These valuable tax credits for upgrading your home to be more energy-efficient are just one portion of the recent Inflation Reduction Act. Energy costs affect everyone, so helping homeowners upgrade to higher efficiency utilities can benefit everyone. The key provision of these credits is to reduce the cost of installing high efficiency upgrades. Of particular importance are the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit and the Residential Clean Energy Credit.
But keep in mind, to apply for the credits, you’ll need a completed IRS Form 5695. Additionally, this form is submitted during the same tax year your upgrades were installed, not bought.
Maximizing Savings with the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit
Through 2032, the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit provides up to $3,200 each year for making your home more energy-efficient. This amounts to 30% of the total project’s cost. Keep in mind that in order to get back the maximum amount, you’ll have to make several investments. For example, you’ll get up to $2,000 for high efficiency heat pump systems. This can be combined with the remaining $1,200 in credits for other eligible upgrades made within the tax year.
While new heat pump installation projects are a great use of the program, high-efficiency furnaces, air conditioners, boilers, and other HVAC systems are still eligible for this tax credit. You’ll need to confirm that your choice’s energy efficiency rating is sufficient to qualify.
Residential Clean Energy Credit
The Residential Clean Energy Credit provides 30% savings on a variety of residential clean energy equipment upgrades. Eligibility is only extended to homeowners looking for new clean energy solutions for their home. While the Home Improvement Credit highlights utilities and HVAC systems, this credit is instead designed around renewable energy sources like solar and wind energy.
Some key details of this tax credit include requiring the installation project to be finished between 2022 and 2032. But at the same time, homeowners can carry forward excess credit to offset future tax obligations. This is a great way to soften the entry into investing in clean energy.
What Else Is Eligible for These Tax Credits?
Because HVAC systems are one of the biggest expenses on your energy bill, these tax credits incentivize the most energy-efficient options. But home energy efficiency can be improved in many other ways. Apart from the previously listed HVAC upgrades, {you could also choose|other eligible items include|you also have access to:
- Energy-saving heat pump water heating systems
- Modern electrical panel improvements
- New electrical wiring
- Insulation, air sealing and ventilation enhancements
- Energy-efficient cooking appliances like stoves, cooktops, and ovens
- Efficient heat pump clothes drying solutions
- High-efficiency water boilers
Like the HVAC systems, you’ll need to check that your chosen products meet the required energy efficiency ratings.
Three Tips for Making the Most of 2024 HVAC Tax Credits
While any one of those upgrades can improve your home’s energy efficiency, a little planning will ensure they offer the most long-term benefits. Maximize your HVAC tax credits with these three tips:
- Perform an energy audit to pinpoint valuable enhancements. Trust experienced HVAC companies to pinpoint essential products and services.
- Improve your home's thermal efficiency with better windows and doors.
- Explore potential rebates from utility companies for clean energy upgrades. Renewable sources like solar, wind, and geothermal contribute to community power grid sustainability.
- Remember to consider financing plans offered by service providers.
A2Z Air Inc Can Help You Secure HVAC Credits for 2024
Partner with local HVAC professionals like A2Z Air Inc for help with home energy audits and new installation projects. Our helpful installers can deliver whatever you need for a more energy-efficient home.
