Stimulus Bill Incentives

On February 17, 2009 President Obama signed "The Stimulus Bill" (The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009) that dramatically reduces the cost of investing in our homes' energy efficiency. The bottom line - these new tax credits make home efficiency upgrades, which reduce our energy bills, even more affordable!

Here's how you can put the Stimulus Bill to work for you.

  • The incentive for homeowners is a tax credit for 2009 and 2010, not a tax deduction. This means that the savings are dollar for dollar on your taxes paid to the federal government.
  • Homeowners who make energy efficient upgrades, including high-efficiency heating and cooling systems fall into this category.
  • By investing in energy efficient systems, homeowners are eligible for a tax credit up to 30% of the total cost, (equipment and labor) with a $1,500 cap.
  • What does it take to qualify? A system that meets the following standards:
  • Air Conditioner - 16 SEER, 12.5 EER (or higher)
  • Furnace - Natural Gas or Propane with an AFUE of 95%+, oil furnace or boilers with AFUE of 90%+
  • Heat Pump - 15 SEER, 12.5 EER, and a HSPF of at least 8.5 (or higher)
  • Blown Insulation - R49 -18 inches (or higher)

It's easy to make the most of this offer. Just work with an AC Doctor HVAC contractor to select the heating and cooling system that allows you to take full advantage of the $1,500 tax credit. You will also benefit from lower utility costs and improve the comfort of your home.

And the savings don't stop there...

Along with the federal tax credit, you may find that your local utility companies offer additional rebates.Here at AC Doctor we've made it easy for you. Check our "Search for Rebates " section for more information

And remember, not only will you save on the purchase of your new high efficiency air conditioner, heat pump, or furnace, but the energy savings you'll achieve can be as much as 40% over your current inefficient system...that means saving major bucks on your monthly utility bills!

Here are a few other energy saving ideas to consider:

  • Energy Audit: It's a good idea to have an energy audit done. It can help identify some other great ways to save money on your home's utility bills. Many of the HVAC professionals in our directory can do this for you.
  • Insulate: The US Department of Energy can help you determine the amount of insulation (R-Value) recommended for your zip code. This gives seasonal comfort throught the year and is a very important factor in energy savings.
  • Simple solutions: Here are simple steps you can take.
    • Plugging small holes in the house that let heat out or cold in can be effective. A spray can of expanding foam insulation can be found at all building supply and hardware stores. This works great for filling holes where pipes, dryer vents, telephone wires, cables and electrical conduits enter your home.
    • Foam gaskets can be placed under your outer-wall receptacles and switch plates.
    • Weather-stripping doors and windows is another inexpensive solution to energy loss.
  • Keep in mind if your house was built before 1970 it could be consuming twice the amount of energy over its newer relative.

Use our Energy Calculator to see exactly how much a new high efficiency air conditioner, heat pump, or furnace can save you. Remember to account for the federal tax credit and any utility rebates that are available when doing your calculations.