The costs associated with new HVAC systems can be very scary. However, there are ways to manage them well while getting the kind of air quality and temperature that you desire.
How is this even possible? Well, the 10 tips below should make it abundantly clear. If you’re concerned about how to save money on a new HVAC system, these recommendations are for you.
1. Capitalize on Tax Credits
This is where you take advantage of a provision made by Congress. There’s a tax credit in place that applies to homeowners who upgrade their HVAC systems to more energy-efficient models. If you capitalize on it, you may be able to receive up to $3,200 annually until 2032.
Besides the credit, Energy Star-certified systems are great for helping you save a lot of money on upfront costs. You should also check if any rebates are available from your local utility company or your state. Don’t let a single incentive pass you by.
2. Prioritize In-house Visits
Many people think that they are cutting costs by getting their quotes done over the phone. If no one has to journey to your home, it should cost less, right? While the quotation process is easier and cheaper, the eventual installation charges will far exceed what you saved.
This is because remote consultations usually request particulars of the current unit and the square footage of your home. Such quotes do not consider your ductwork, thermostat, or any other element of the current setup. It’s best to have a technician do an in-house visit for a more precise result.
3. Compare Pricing by Payment Method
There will sometimes be different conditions based on how you pay. For example, some businesses will offer a small rebate for paying by cash. On the same note, you may find that there is a small premium that credit card users must pay.
While cash is a better option if you can afford it, stay wary of substantial price differences based purely on your payment method. If you must use credit, consider a home equity loan, as the interest will be much lower than that of a credit card.
4. Consider Replacing Air Conditioning and Heating at the Same Time
If you’re doing a furnace replacement, you may not want to think about replacing your cooling system as it hasn’t fully stopped functioning.
However, if you’re going to be getting the work done six months down the line, it may be a good idea to replace both simultaneously. Doing so allows you to get around some of the labor costs that would be associated with two separate jobs.
5. Look for a Good Warranty Agreement
The big consideration here is saving in the future. A proper warranty means that repairs and replacements can be handled when needed without the need to pay for parts. Labor coverage may still be required, but this is a small price to pay. Take the time to review the available warranty before finalizing a purchase.
6. Get Multiple Quotes
This principle applies to other areas of life as well. There isn’t only one HVAC contractor in the world. Remember that value speaks to the product and service quality based on the price. You don’t have to go with the most expensive option to get a decent outcome. In some cases, HVAC repair in West Hollywood, CA will be a better option rather than buying a new unit.
Shopping around is the perfect way to get a feel for what is on the market. There should usually be no commitment required for quotations, but it doesn’t hurt to confirm.
7. Have a Smart Thermostat Installed
Thermostats have come a long way. Older ones require you to leave your cooling on all day, activate a simple timer feature, or turn them off altogether.
With one of the smart variations, there are more controls available, allowing you to change your timers at will, alongside other great features, such as the ability to modify the temperature in each room. These contribute to greater energy efficiency.
8. Ensure Your Quote Is in Writing
You want to stick to companies like Pure Eco Inc. in Southern California that are willing to stand behind the prices that they offer. Typically, these will be the ones that provide you with a written quote. Of course, there will usually be an expiration date.
Even if the price is only guaranteed for 30 days, the company is still willing to honor its commitment. You will find that some providers simply don’t want to offer you anything in black and white. Additionally, some of them will tell you that they do not guarantee any pricing.
Whatever the case may be, you want to steer clear of the ones that want to be able to make any modifications whenever they desire.
9. Improve Your Insulation
If you want your HVAC system to run as smoothly and as efficiently as possible, take the time to ensure that your insulation is taken care of. You want to reduce the amount of warm or cool air that is leaving your house.
Without optimal insulation, you will find that your systems need to work harder to maintain the internal temperature that you have requested. It’s best to make the job easier, as it will translate to lower energy costs.
10. Ensure Duct Work Is Solid
Finally, you want to take care of any duct sealing that is needed if you’re trying to save money. Any leaks in your ductwork will almost automatically translate to greater amounts of energy consumption. After all, holes and cracks will cause air to escape.
As was the case with substandard insulation, ductwork that is in disrepair will cause your HVAC system to work harder. Of course, this means your costs will be higher.
Wrapping Up
Every homeowner should know how to save money on a new HVAC system. After all, engaging a repair service is not always an option. Capitalize on the 10 tips above for the best results. There are likely other areas of your home that you’d much rather spend some of those extra funds on.
As you can see from the recommendations provided, some of them are geared towards paying the lowest upfront cost possible. Others focus on setting you up to save when the system starts operating.
