While we’re enjoying the gorgeous autumn weather in South Carolina, don’t forget to plan for the future! Much of the year, we need to either heat or cool our homes for months on end. And if you aren’t absolutely certain that your home’s HVAC system is in excellent condition, now would be the best time to consider what might need replacing.
It’s not just your heating system you should consider this fall, either. There are changes coming to the air conditioning industry, and you’d do best to be prepared in advance. What’s going on that makes this fall the best time for an HVAC upgrade? What are the best cost-saving options? Here’s the info you need.
Tax Credits
If you purchase equipment before the end of the year which is eligible for tax rebates thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, you’ll get that rebate within just a few months! Upgrading to a more energy-efficient heating system, air conditioner, or heat pump during the fall means being able to file your taxes soon after, so you’ll get your money back as soon as possible.
For most high-efficiency equipment, such as furnaces and air conditioners, the rebate you’ll be able to collect is 30% of the cost of the system, up to a maximum of $1,200. But if you purchase a heat pump or boiler, you can still recover 30% of the cost, but the maximum is even higher: up to $2,000. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. You could get a great system for much less money, plus pay less when your energy bills come each month!
Refrigerant Changes
There’s another law affecting HVAC manufacturers and, down the line, purchasers as well now. This is the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act, first signed into law by Donald Trump in 2020. It specifies a timeline for switching over from using an older, less-environmentally-friendly refrigerant to a newer one that’s much better for the environment. In January of 2025, a big shift is coming.
Manufacturers will no longer be making new systems which are reliant upon this refrigerant. This change is positive in many ways, but in the short term, it will have some impacts that will be felt by consumers. There may be some supply chain delays during the coming year, and the cost of the new systems will be somewhat higher. What can you do about that?
Plan Your Upgrade Now
To make the most of the tax rebates and avoid any complications arising from this refrigerant changeover, your best bet is to talk with a member of our team of HVAC experts about what parts of your system are most in need of an upgrade. And we’ve got a special promotion right now to help you: $75/month financing is available for new equipment installations! We can get you up and running in no time without charging an arm and a leg.
Ready to get started with your heat pump, AC, or heating replacement in Columbia, SC?
Contact Fulmer Heating & Cooling today for an HVAC expert in Columbia, SC!