Take Advantage of HVAC Energy Efficiency Incentives

As more Americans are joining the battle against climate change, the United States government wants to pitch in as well. It is offering various incentives to people making their lives greener � everything from the Cash for Clunkers program to energy-related tax breaks. You can still take part in a number of these programs to make your home more eco-friendly and save money.

There are four incentives which center on HVAC systems. Here is a basic outline of each offer and what you need to know to take part.

1. Advanced Main Circulating Fan. This incentive covers any fan or blower motor which blows the air heated by your furnace through a duct system. The fan or blower motor must not use any more than two percent of the furnace�s total energy. Remember, if the fan meets energy efficiency standards but the furnace does not, you will only receive the tax break on the fan. In this case, ask your heating and cooling company to separate the price of the fan from the rest of the furnace on your bill. Make sure they factor in installation costs for the fan as well.

2. Air Source Heat Pumps. This is an energy efficient alternative to furnaces and air conditioners. A heat pump will move warm air from cool spaces to warmer ones. During the heating season, it will take heat from the cooler outdoors and bring it inside, while in the cooling season it take warm air from inside your house and moves it outside. This method is best for homes in moderate climates. Since the pump moves warm air instead of creating it, the pump can provide up to four times more energy than it uses. Installation costs of the heat pump should also be factored in when calculating a final price to submit for your tax credit.

3. Central Air Conditioning (CAC). When any central air unit is installed in your home, be sure to speak with your HVAC installation specialist. He or she will be able to tell you whether your unit qualifies for the tax credit. Also, ask for the manufacture certification statement or check the manufacturer�s website for more information. With central air conditioning as well, your installation costs should be included into the final amount you submit for your tax credit.

4. Oil, Propane or Natural Gas Furnace. These furnaces use combustion of fuel and air to create heat for your home. Again, factor installation fees into the final amount you submit for a tax credit.

After you have the work done to your systems, there are a few things you need to know to apply for the tax break. The credits apply only to units that are �placed in service� in 2009. This means, the equipment was ready and available for use in 2009, if you purchased it last year but it is still sitting in your basement, you cannot claim the credit until you turn in your 2010 tax forms. Be sure to save your manufacturer�s certification statement and submit it with your 5695 tax form. For other information on limitations and requirements on the tax credit, visit EnergySTAR�s website.

Wesley Holm, President of on Thompson Plumbing Heating & Cooling. a Cincinnati-based plumbing, heating and air-conditioning company that offers the best service in the Greater Cincinnati area.