Home Energy Expert:
Capital Heating and Cooling
Hiring a cooling and heating contractor:
As seasons change, the inevitable in change in temperature may trigger a need for repairs or perhaps replacement of many heating and cooling systems. Choosing the right contractor to repair or replace your home comfort system is an important decision. Homeowners can make an informed decision by considering a qualified contractor:
1.) Don’t hesitate to ask to see licenses, certifications, proof of insurance and customer references. When checking references, ask previous customers about the contractor’s performance, customer service and whether the project was completed on time and within budget. When the contractor gives you a price, request a written estimate. Ask the contractor detailed questions.
2.) Less is not always more. Don’t choose a contractor solely on price. Find out the range of services offered, such as repairs, scheduled maintenance, 24-hour service and so on. Be wary of low bids, as they may not cover routine services and customer warranties.
3.) Do your homework. Before calling a contractor, familiarize yourself with your current unit and its maintenance history. Learn as much as you can about HVAC systems through newspapers, magazines, trade journals, online resources and dealer and manufacturer web sites.
4.) Recognize a good contractor. He or she bases estimates on a heat-load calculation, conductson-site inspections and asks questions about your heating and cooling needs and concerns before making any equipment or service recommendations. A good contractor also demonstrates knowledge of up-to-date technology and is comfortable discussing newer, more efficient units.
Tax Credits:
On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed the "American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA)" into law. This bill combines spending and tax incentives designed to get the American Economy moving forward by investing in infrastructure and increasing the energy of residential/commercial buildings in America.
Specifically for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) business, this legislation makes a number of important changes to the existing tax incentives for homeowners who make qualified purchases on high-efficiency HVAC products and equipment in their primary residences. Overall the tax credits available have been increased up to 30% for the installed cost of these improvements, or a total of $1,500 for residential HVAC products installed from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2010. Check with your dealer / installer for details.
Energy Efficiency:
Consider having your home evaluated to improve its energy efficiency. Through the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Program, a participating Building Performance Institute (BPI) Accredited Home Performance contractor will perform an assessment of your home, make recommendations for energy improvements and provide a cost estimate to do the improvements.
Visit: www.getenergysmart.org.
If you are of low-to-moderate income, you can make your 1-4 family home more energy efficient and reduce your utility bills, if eligible, with the Assisted Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Program.
Make sure the recommended levels of insulation are installed in your attic and basement.
Older furnaces aren’t nearly as fuel efficient as today’s high efficiency models. Even if it’s still in good working condition, an older furnace could be using approximately 20% more fuel than a new high efficiency furnace. And an old water heater could be just as inefficient as an older furnace. When shopping for new appliances, compare energy efficiency ratings and annual operating costs. National Fuel’s Conservation Incentive Program offers residential and nonresidential customers in National Fuel’s western New York service area rebates when upgrading to qualifying energy efficient units.
Install storm or thermal windows and doors or doublepaned glass. A less expensive alternative is plastic sheeting, which can be temporarily fastened over doors and windows to prevent drafts and retain heat