To avoid rising energy costs and work toward a more sustainable life, 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 energy-efficient home upgrades, especially HVAC systems like air conditioners. These credits offer a big chunk of the installation costs, provided that homeowners use eligible equipment and submit the right paperwork.
If you’re worried about a long, complicated process, maybe we can help! Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating hopes this guide will provide all the information necessary to take full advantage of HVAC tax credits this year. Here’s what you’ll need to do.
Understanding the HVAC Tax Credits
These valuable tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements are just one goal 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 primary goal of these credits is to reduce the cost of installing high efficiency upgrades. Of particular importance are the Residential Clean Energy Credit and the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit.
But remember, to be eligible for tax credits, you’ll have to fill out IRS Form 5695. Additionally, this form has to be submitted within the same tax year any upgrades were installed, not purchased.
Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit
Through 2032, the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement credit empowers homeowners by offsetting up to $3,200 each year for energy-efficient home upgrades. This amounts to 30% of the total project’s cost. You should be aware that in order to receive the maximum amount, it means making severel investments. For example, you’ll save 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 installation projects are a key target for this incentive, high-efficiency furnaces, air conditioners, boilers, and other HVAC systems are still eligible for this tax credit. You’ll need to confirm that your choice’s energy efficiency rating is high enough for eligibility.
Exploring the Residential Clean Energy Credit
The Residential Clean Energy Credit provides 30% savings on a number of other residential clean energy equipment upgrades. Eligibility only applies to homeowners seeking to update existing or newly constructed homes. While the Home Improvement Credit highlights utilities and HVAC systems, this credit is instead designed around 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 use any excess credit to reduce taxes in future years. This is a great way to soften the entry into investing in clean energy.
What Else Is Eligible for These Tax Credits?
Because HVAC systems are one of the major reasons for high energy bills, these tax credits can guide you 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 check that your chosen products meet the eligible energy efficiency ratings.
Three Tips for Making the Most of 2024 HVAC Tax Credits
While any one of those upgrades can enhance your home's energy performance, a little planning will ensure the best chance at more long-term benefits. Maximize your HVAC tax credits with these three tips:
- Perform an energy audit to pinpoint valuable enhancements. Rely on professional HVAC assessments for crucial advice.
- Improve your home's thermal efficiency with better 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.
Secure Your 2024 HVAC Credits with Help from Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating
Partner with local HVAC professionals like Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating for help with home energy audits and new installation projects. Our experienced installers know how to provide all you need for home energy efficiency upgrades.