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 high efficiency HVAC equipment. These credits offer big savings, as long as the homeowners select eligible equipment and submit the right paperwork.
If you’re trying to avoid a long process, we can share something that will help! Lakeside Heating & Air 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.
How Do These Tax Credits Work?
These valuable tax credits for upgrading your home to be more energy-efficient 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 primary goal 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 apply for the credits, you’ll need a completed IRS Form 5695. Additionally, this form is 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 annually 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, 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 paired with an additional $1,200 in credits for more projects in the tax year.
While new heat pump systems are a great use of the program, 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 sufficient to qualify.
Exploring the Residential Clean Energy Credit
The Residential Clean Energy Credit amounts to roughly 30% savings on a wide range of residential clean energy efficiency projects. Eligibility only applies 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 provisions of the tax credit include requiring the installation project to be finished between 2022 and 2032. But at the same time, homeowners can carry forward excess credit to offset future tax obligations. This is a great way to spread out costs and keep them more manageable.
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 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
- Modern electrical panel improvements
- Upgraded electrical wiring
- Insulation, air sealing and ventilation enhancements
- High-efficiency electric stoves, cooktops, ranges or ovens
- Heat pump clothes dryers
- High-efficiency water boilers
Just like with installing one or more HVAC systems, you’ll need to verify that your preferred make and model features the eligible energy efficiency ratings.
Three Tips for Making the Most of 2024 HVAC Tax Credits
While any of these upgrades can enhance your home's energy performance, 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. Trust experienced HVAC companies to pinpoint essential products and services.
- Install new high efficiency 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 Lakeside Heating & Air
Partner with local HVAC professionals like Lakeside Heating & Air for help with home energy audits and new installation projects. Our experienced installers can deliver whatever you need for a more energy-efficient home.
