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. With help from the Inflation Reduction Act, federal tax credits are available for upgrading to more efficient HVAC systems, such as air conditioners. These credits offer big savings, as long as the homeowners work with eligible equipment and submit the appropriate form.
If you’re worried about a long, complicated process, we can share something that will help! Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling hopes this guide will give you what you need to secure 2024’s HVAC tax credits. Here’s how.
How Do These Tax Credits Work?
These valuable tax credits for upgrading your home to be more energy-efficient are just one small part 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. The two we’ll cover are the Residential Clean Energy Credit and the Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit.
Don’t forget, to be eligible for tax credits, you’ll need a completed IRS Form 5695. Additionally, this form needs to be submitted during the same tax year the 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 each year for energy-efficient home upgrades. This can be up to 30% of the total project’s cost. It's important to note in order to be eligible for the maximum amount, it means making severel investments. For example, you’ll receive up to $2,000 for high efficiency heat pump systems. This can be combined with the remaining $1,200 in credits for other eligible upgrades made within the tax year.
While new heat pump installation projects are a popular option for the tax credit, high-efficiency furnaces, air conditioners, boilers, and other HVAC systems are still eligible for this tax credit. You should confirm that your choice’s energy efficiency rating is sufficient to qualify.
Exploring the Residential Clean Energy Credit
The Residential Clean Energy Credit provides 30% savings on a number of other residential clean energy efficiency projects. Eligibility is restricted to homeowners seeking to update existing or newly constructed homes. While the Home Improvement Credit focuses on utilities and HVAC systems, this credit is instead designed around 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 soften the entry into investing in clean energy.
What Else Is Eligible for These 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
- Modern electrical panel improvements
- New 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
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 boost home energy efficiency, some planning ahead will ensure the best chance at more long-term benefits. Get the most from your HVAC tax credits with these reminders:
- Conduct a home energy audit to identify impactful upgrades. Trust experienced HVAC companies to pinpoint essential products and services.
- Improve your home's thermal efficiency with better 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.
- Remember to consider financing plans offered by service providers.
Secure Your 2024 HVAC Credits with Help from Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling
Partner with local HVAC professionals like Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling for eligible serves like energy assessments or new installation. Our seasoned installers know how to provide all you need for home energy efficiency upgrades.