By Enoch Lenge
Your current cooling system may still be operating, but there’s a chance it may not be running efficiently and running up your electric bill. As the summer heat continues over the next couple of months, take a look at your current system and see if it’s time to upgrade to an energy efficient cooling system.
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— This is part of a series of articles from Energize Connecticut, an initiative of the Energy Efficiency Fund, the Connecticut Green Bank, the State, and local electric and gas utilities. Enoch Lenge is an energy efficiency expert with Eversource and Energize Connecticut.
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Whether you are considering central air or purchasing a room air conditioning unit, you should always look for the Energy Star label. These units are certified by the Department of Energy to use less energy.
Enoch Lenge (contributed photo)
Energy Star central air conditioners are approximately 15 percent more efficient than a standard system and can help you save on your electric costs month after month. To help with the initial purchase, qualifying central air conditioning systems may be eligible for a $250 Energize Connecticut rebate.
Also look for the unit’s SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio rating. It is prominently labeled and is one of the best ways to understand your system’s energy efficiency. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system is.
In addition to Energize CT rebates, homeowners who make energy efficient home improvements may also be eligible to apply for federal income tax incentives, such as the Non-Business Energy Property Tax Credit, which credits homeowners 10 percent of the qualified cost up to $500. But remember, these incentives expire at the end of this year.
Everything you need to know about upgrading to energy efficient cooling equipment, including details on rebates and federal tax credits, is available at EnergizeCT.com.
For a complete energy checkup of your home and more ways to save money, sign up for Home Energy Solutions today at EnergizeCT.com, or call 877-WISE-USE (877-947-3873).