Air conditioning systems are widespread today and the majority of commercial and residential buildings have them in some form. One of the things that makes air conditioners so useful is their ability to not only provide cooling air but also heat up rooms, which makes them an invaluable addition to any home or business.
If you are concerned about the amount of energy you use, either from an environmental viewpoint, or simply to save money with the rising cost of electricity it is essential that you are aware of how to maximise the efficiency of your air conditioners. You may think that you are doing all you can by buying a model of air conditioner that has the Energy Star logo on it, but this is just the beginning of making sure your air conditioner is being efficient. Follow these tips and you will soon be running your air conditioner as efficiently as possible.
-Make sure that you check and clean the filter screen thoroughly every month. This might seem like a rather arduous task but in the long run it will save you electricity by cutting down on the fan usage and this in turn will save you money.
-When you first turn on your air conditioner do not put it on at the lowest temperature setting. By allowing the system to warm up first, then reducing the temperature, it will cool the room just as quickly but without using up as much electricity making another saving.
-To reduce your energy usage by up to 25% install a ceiling fan in the biggest room in the building. By doing this you will be able to turn your air conditioning down by 2 to 6 degrees, just make sure that in the winter you reverse the fan's rotation to clockwise.
-Check and keep the condensing unit clear of leaves, twigs and other outdoor debris. Also make sure that you regularly check and clean the condensing coils to maintain their performance. You would be surprised at the amount of money wasted by not keeping air conditioners and cooling systems maintained correctly.
-When buying air conditioning systems go for the units that have an EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) of 10.0 or preferably higher, this means that you will be saving money by buying an efficient air conditioner.
If you are looking to change your air conditioner or you are buying one for the first time you need to consult the experts. Your local HVAC technician can provide the best advice on air conditioners and all aspects of residential and commercial cooling and heating systems. Once you have chosen the model that suits you and your needs, have your local technician deliver, install and demonstrate your air conditioner.
Energy Efficient Air Conditioning
Tax Credits for Energy Efficient Air Conditioning In Your Home
As part of the provisions in the Energy Policy Act 2005, homeowners are entitled to claim tax credits on use of a few energy saving items. They include the use of energy saving windows, doors, roofing, furnace and boiler, water heater and air conditioner. As energy becomes scarcer by the day, it is essential to conserve as much energy as possible. The government, by way of giving tax credits, also encourages using alternate sources of energy.
Using energy efficient air conditioning systems is one of the items that qualify for tax credit. Individuals who install this type of air conditioner are eligible for a tax credit of up to $300. The models that qualify are obviously costlier than the ordinary ones. However, this calculation would show that it is advisable to install a new energy saving air conditioner. Even if you save just $10 a month on average by way of electricity bills it comes to $120 for a year. Add to that the tax credit of $300, your net saving is $420. This amount should be good enough to prod a homeowner into buying an energy efficient air-conditioner.
Of course, not all air conditioners are eligible for a tax credit. Even, not all Energy Star air conditioners qualify, only some do. Very efficient central air conditioners qualify for the tax credit if they meet the following criteria:
1. The Energy Efficiency Ratio has to be 13.0 or higher (in some states its 12.5).
2. Certified technician needs to install the equipment.
3. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) has to be 15.
SEER measures performance throughout the season and EER measures performance on a very hot day. Central Air conditioning systems must meet the standards set by the Consortium of Energy Efficiency (CEE). The specifications for each state vary slightly.
The tax credit for energy efficient cooling systems in our home is just another step in saving money on both your energy bill and taxes. Since tax credits are reduced from the actual amount of tax you owe, not your gross income, you should strongly consider taking advantage of this one.
Both Ray Toofan & Richard A. Chapo are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Ray Toofan has sinced written about articles on various topics from Home, Home Management and Air Filters. Giant Mechanical is a leading Chicago area company that provides Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and a variety of other services. Find out how Giant Mechanical can help you with your commercial, residential, or institutional needs b. Ray Toofan's top article generates over 5400 views. to your Favourites.
Richard A. Chapo has sinced written about articles on various topics from Finances, Tax Deductions and Tax. Richard A. Chapo is with Business Tax Recovery - providing information on .. Richard A. Chapo's top article generates over 22200 views. to your Favourites.
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