What Is Energy Star?
ENERGY STAR is a global symbol for energy efficiency. Energy efficiency is one of the easiest and most cost effective ways to combat climate change, clean the air we breathe, improve the competitiveness of our businesses and reduce energy costs for consumers. With fewer pollutants in the air due to ENERGY STAR products in use, energy resources are better utilized and greenhouse gas emissions are lowered. The EPA recognizes ENERGY STAR products in more than 60 categories. More than 80 percent of U.S. consumers recognize and understand the label, collectively buying an estimated 300 million ENERGY STAR qualified products every year.
Energy Star and Your HVAC System
Is the HVAC system more than 10 years old? Does the HVAC unit need frequent repairs? Are there hot and cold spells in certain rooms? An HVAC system has three functions – heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. The HVAC system uses a series of ducts networked throughout the home to disperse heating and cooling. The system is relatively quiet and through the years, has improved its level of energy efficiency, if maintained, but still makes up the biggest portion of the utility bill. Take a proactive approach and have its performance evaluated by one of our professionals. Replacing an old, inefficient system with one of the Energy Star-rated Bryant or Carrier models can save you about $200 per year on your utility bill, as well as make the home far more comfortable.
HVAC systems are rated with what’s known as a SEER rate – Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The typical rating ranges anywhere from 13 to 23. The products with the highest SEER ratings are considered to be the most energy efficient. When purchasing an HVAC system, the product must carry a SEER rating of no less than 14.5 along with an EER – Energy Efficiency Ratio – of 11.0 for single models, and 12.0 for split systems, in order to qualify as an ENERGY STAR certified product.
What Other Benefits Are There?
In addition to saving dollars on monthly utility bills and helping to keep the environment clean with fewer gas emissions, ENERGY STAR products may be eligible for tax credits and rebates which includes HVAC systems. The products may also qualify for local city or state incentives such as energy audits that may be discounted or free of charge and available from the utility company. You can check the ENERGY STAR website to see which, if any, HVAC systems are currently eligible for a tax credit. Promotional rebate offers are also something to look for when buying a HVAC system. Although the timeframe for receiving a rebate for a HVAC purchase may be limited, it is to your advantage to check on rebates that may be available from the government, utility companies, and manufacturers.
Investing in a new HVAC system is not a cheap project but the best equipment will save you money on your energy bills. Cagle Service Heating and Air understands and offers financing options to help that financial strain. Call us today for more information or a free quote (731)300-1030.
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