To avoid rising energy costs and work toward a more sustainable life, many homeowners are trying new methods to maintain comfort levels while using less energy. Included in the Inflation Reduction Act, federal tax credits are available for high efficiency HVAC equipment. These credits offer a big chunk of the installation costs, provided that homeowners select qualifying equipment and submit the right paperwork.
If you’re worried about a long, complicated process, we can share something that will help! GLR Mechanical 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 intended use 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 keep in mind, to be eligible for tax credits, you’ll have to fill out IRS Form 5695. Additionally, this form has to be submitted during the same tax year any upgrades were installed, not purchased.
Maximizing Savings with the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit
Through 2032, the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement credit empowers homeowners by offsetting up to $3,200 every year for installing higher efficiency home upgrades. This can be up to 30% of the total project’s cost. It's important to note in order to get back the maximum amount, you’ll have to make several investments. For example, you’ll receive up to $2,000 for installing a higher efficiency heat pump. This can be combined with the remaining $1,200 in credits for other eligible upgrades made within the tax year.
While new heat pump systems are a great use of the program, other HVAC upgrades like efficient furnaces and air conditioners also qualify. You’ll need to confirm that your choice’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 efficiency projects. Eligibility only applies to homeowners looking for new clean energy solutions for their home. While the Home Improvement Credit works primarily with utilities and HVAC systems, this credit is more about renewable energy sources like solar and wind energy.
Some specific items in 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 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 incentivize 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:
- Heat pump water heaters
- Electrical panel upgrades
- Upgraded electrical wiring
- Insulation, air sealing and ventilation enhancements
- 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 check that your preferred make and model features the eligible energy efficiency ratings.
Three Tips for Making the Most of 2024 HVAC Tax Credits
While all the listed upgrades can enhance your home's energy performance, a little planning will ensure the best chance at more 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.
- Explore potential rebates from utility companies for clean energy upgrades. 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 GLR Mechanical
Partner with local HVAC professionals like GLR Mechanical for eligible serves like energy assessments or new installation. Our experienced installers will deliver everything you need for a more energy-efficient home.