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. With help from the Inflation Reduction Act, federal tax credits are available for upgrading to more efficient HVAC systems, such as air conditioners. These credits offer significant savings, provided that homeowners use eligible equipment and submit the right paperwork.

If you’re trying to avoid a long process, we’re offering to help! Brookwood Inc hopes this guide will provide all the information necessary to take full advantage of HVAC tax credits this year. Here’s what you should know.

Understanding the HVAC Tax Credits

These valuable tax credits for boosting your home’s energy efficiency are just one small part of the recent Inflation Reduction Act. With the higher cost of energy making an impact, helping more homeowners upgrade their equipment is always beneficial. The main intention of these credits is to mitigate costs associated with installation and renovation projects. Of particular importance are the Residential Clean Energy Credit and the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit.

But remember, in order to claim your credits, you’ll need a completed IRS Form 5695. Additionally, this form has to be submitted for the same tax year any upgrades were installed, not bought.

Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit

Through 2032, the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit provides up to $3,200 every year for making your home more energy-efficient. This equals 30% of the total project’s cost. Keep in mind that in order to be eligible for the maximum amount, it means making severel investments. For example, you’ll receive up to $2,000 for installing a higher efficiency heat pump. This can be paired with an additional $1,200 in credits for more projects in the tax year.

While new heat pump systems are a popular option for the tax credit, other HVAC upgrades like efficient furnaces and air conditioners also qualify. You should confirm the make and model’s energy efficiency rating is high enough for eligibility.

Residential Clean Energy Credit

The Residential Clean Energy Credit provides 30% savings on a variety of residential clean energy equipment upgrades. Eligibility is restricted to homeowners seeking to update existing or newly constructed homes. While the Home Improvement Credit focuses on utilities and HVAC systems, this credit is more about 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 keep the excess credit to reduce future taxes. This is a great way to spread out costs and keep them more manageable.

What Else Is Eligible for These Tax Credits?

Because HVAC systems are one of the biggest portions of your monthly energy costs, these tax credits can guide you to 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
  • Electrical panel upgrades
  • New electrical wiring
  • Enhancements to insulation, air sealing, and ventilation
  • High-efficiency electric stoves, cooktops, ranges or ovens
  • Efficient heat pump clothes drying solutions
  • High-efficiency water boilers

Like the HVAC systems, you’ll need to confirm that your chosen products meet the eligible energy efficiency ratings.

Maximizing Your 2024 HVAC Tax Credits: Top 3 Tips

While any one of those upgrades can boost home energy efficiency, a little planning will ensure the best chance at more long-term benefits. Maximize your HVAC tax credits with these three tips:

  1. Conduct a home energy audit to identify impactful upgrades. Rely on professional HVAC assessments for crucial advice.
  2. Improve your home's thermal efficiency with better windows and doors.
  3. Explore potential rebates from utility companies for clean energy upgrades. Renewable sources like solar, wind, and geothermal contribute to community power grid sustainability.
  4. Remember to consider financing plans offered by service providers.

Brookwood Inc Can Help You Secure HVAC Credits for 2024

Partner with local HVAC professionals like Brookwood 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.