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. As part of the Inflation Reduction Act, federal tax credits are available for energy-efficient home upgrades, especially HVAC systems like air conditioners. These credits offer big savings, provided that homeowners choose eligible equipment and submit the appropriate form.
If you’re trying to avoid a long process, we’re offering to help! B&D Air Conditioning hopes this guide will give you what you need to secure 2024’s HVAC tax credits. Here’s what you’ll need to do.
How Do These Tax Credits Work?
These valuable tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements are just one portion 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 key provision of these credits is to mitigate costs associated with installation and renovation projects. Two of note are the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit and the Residential Clean Energy Credit.
But keep in mind, to claim your credits, you’ll need to fill out IRS Form 5695. Additionally, this form needs to be submitted during the same tax year any 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 annually for making your home more energy-efficient. This can be up to 30% of the total project’s cost. You should be aware that in order to receive the maximum amount, it involves making different investments. For example, you’ll receive up to $2,000 for a new, high-efficiency heat pump. This can be combined with the remaining $1,200 in credits for other eligible upgrades made within the tax year.
While heat pumps are a popular option for the tax credit, other HVAC upgrades like efficient furnaces and air conditioners also qualify. You should 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 wide range of residential clean energy equipment upgrades. Eligibility is restricted to homeowners seeking to update existing or newly constructed homes. While the Home Improvement Credit works primarily with utilities and HVAC systems, this credit targets renewable energy sources like solar and wind energy.
Some key details of this tax credit include the requirement that installation must occur 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 make things a little easier when investing in renewables.
Additional Qualifications for Energy Tax Credits
Because HVAC systems are one of the biggest expenses on your energy bill, these tax credits offer more access to the most energy-efficient options. But home energy efficiency can be improved in lots of 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
- Upgraded electrical wiring
- Insulation, air sealing and ventilation enhancements
- High-efficiency electric stoves, cooktops, ranges or ovens
- Heat pump clothes dryers
- Water boilers
Like the HVAC systems, you’ll need to verify that your chosen products meet the eligible energy efficiency ratings.
Three Tips for Making the Most of 2024 HVAC Tax Credits
While any of these upgrades can improve your home’s energy efficiency, some planning ahead will ensure they offer the most long-term benefits. Get the most from your HVAC tax credits with these three tips:
- Perform an energy audit to pinpoint valuable enhancements. Rely on professional HVAC assessments for crucial advice.
- Enhance your home's envelope by addressing inefficient windows and doors.
- Look into rebates for clean energy projects from utilities. Renewable sources like solar, wind, and geothermal contribute to community power grid sustainability.
- Don’t forget financing options from local service companies, which can help reduce costs even more.
B&D Air Conditioning Can Help You Secure HVAC Credits for 2024
Partner with local HVAC professionals like B&D Air Conditioning for eligible serves like energy assessments or new installation. Our experienced installers will deliver everything you need for home energy efficiency upgrades.