A common homeowner mistake is waiting too long to invest in a new HVAC system. You should discuss with your technician the condition of the current unit and how efficient it is. Even with a well-maintained older unit, there can be opportunities to save due to newer technologies and innovations. In that spirit, let’s explore how a new HVAC system may save you money over the long term.
Plan Your HVAC Replacement
You can minimize your upfront HVAC costs by planning your replacement. If you wait until your current system fails, you have little control over the timing. When planning ahead, you can, for instance, schedule your installation during a non-peak period. You may also want to consider the timing of other replacements. Discuss with your technician whether you can save by replacing the air conditioner and air handler at the same time.
Modern Energy Efficiency
There have been considerable technological advancements in the HVAC space over the last decade. The main driver is a global effort to reduce the carbon footprint of individual HVAC systems. The U.S. EPA updated its standards for HVAC energy efficiency in January 2023.
Seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) is a rating for the cooling efficiency of ACs and heat pumps. It measures how many watts an AC or heat pump needs to transfer heat energy from the indoor air. The higher the number is, the more efficient the cooling is. The minimum SEER in the northern region is 14.
Heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) is a rating of heating efficiency of heat pumps. It measures the watts needed to transfer heat energy into the living space. A higher HSPF indicates more efficient heating, and the minimum in this region is HSPF 8.8.
Furnaces generate heat rather than transfer heat energy. Annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) is a measure of how efficiently a furnace burns fuel. The minimum is AFUE 90. That means that a furnace converts 90% of the fuel into heat. The other 10% is energy loss.
The EPA estimates that the average American home can reduce heating and cooling costs by 20% to 40%. The average annual heating and cooling cost in New Hampshire is $3,127. That would be a savings of between $625 and $1,250 a year. How much you can save depends on the age and condition of your current system. It also depends on factors like insulation, windows and doors.
Fewer Repairs and Lower Maintenance Costs
Another point to consider when it comes to new HVAC equipment is that it’s much less prone to failure. If a malfunction does occur, the warranty will likely cover it. The average HVAC repair cost in New Hampshire is about $400. Maintenance costs may be higher with older systems too. This can be the case when the technician requires uncommon equipment or materials. Refrigerant is an example. The newer R-454b is much more affordable than the phased-out R-410a and R-404a.
Duct Repairs
HVAC replacement is also an excellent time to have your ductwork inspected and repaired. Most homeowners aren’t going to need to replace their ducts. That said, older ducts may be inefficient and result in higher costs through air leakage and energy loss. Your technician will check all the seals and mounting hardware to avoid leaks. It may also be a good idea to replace any duct insulation that has worn out with time. This is generally a simple process with ducts in attics and crawl spaces. It can be more expensive if the ducts are in the walls or other hard-to-reach areas.
Heat Pumps
If you have a traditional furnace and AC pairing, you may want to consider a heat pump instead. Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling and so are typically cheaper than an AC and furnace. They are also among the most energy-efficient HVAC solutions currently available.
Historically, heat pumps haven’t been practical in New Hampshire, but that has changed. Geothermal systems can be expensive up front. The upside is that the systems are very energy-efficient and cost-effective to run. In addition, the underground infrastructure, which is a big part of the expense, can last 50 years.
You also have the option of pairing a standard air-source heat pump with a furnace. These systems go by several names: dual-source heat pumps, hybrid heating and dual-fuel heating. When temperatures drop too low for the heat pump to remain efficient, the furnace kicks on.
HVAC Zoning
HVAC replacement is also an opportunity to consider a zoned HVAC setup. This lets you maintain different temperatures in various zones of the home. At nighttime, you could have the second floor a cooler temperature while maintaining a more energy-efficient setting downstairs. The EPA estimates an additional 30% in energy savings when pairing zoning with a smart thermostat and proper programming.
There are several ways to achieve HVAC zoning. One option is a variable-speed furnace. The term variable speed in this context refers to the air handler. The system can adjust the speed as needed. This allows it to control the flow of air through the home more precisely.
Whole-House Dehumidifier
During the New Hampshire cooling season, the air is often very humid. While some dehumidification is a cooling byproduct, your AC or heat pump is not a dehumidifier. You may want to consider a whole-house dehumidifier as an HVAC add-on. It serves several purposes. An optimal RH will make your home feel cooler. It will allow you to be more comfortable at a higher, more energy-efficient temperature. It will lower your costs enough to pay for itself over the life of the equipment. It also saves wear and tear on the AC or heat pump and lowers your costs that way as well.
Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit
The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit is another reason this is a great time to invest in HVAC replacement. It provides you a tax credit of 30% of the project cost up to a limit. You may be able to take that credit for both the heating and cooling aspects of the installation. Generally, you’ll need to choose equipment that has earned ENERGY STAR certification. The limit is also higher if you opt for a geothermal system.
Local Energy Rebates
There are also local energy rebates available. You can find these listed for New Hampshire on the EPA website. Rebates are cashback and not tied to filing your taxes. There are rebates available for smart thermostats, heat pumps, ACs, furnaces, boilers and so forth. You may also want to explore if your local utility company has any opt-in energy programs. If you purchase the necessary equipment and opt-in, you can enjoy a credit on your bill each month.
Your Local HVAC Experts in Nashua and Canterbury
Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. performs ducted and ductless heating and cooling installations in Nashua and Canterbury and throughout the neighboring communities. Our HVAC technicians perform maintenance and repairs as well. We also have plumbers who install boilers and tank and tankless water heaters. Call us today or contact us online to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.
