Did your air conditioner underperform this summer? Is your system old and in need of an upgrade? Then perhaps now would be a good time to upgrade to a high-efficiency system, while the 2011 federal tax credits for energy efficiency are still in effect.

Eligible central air conditioning units could bring you a savings of up to $300. To qualify:

• Package systems must carry a minimum energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 12 and a minimum seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of 14.
• Split systems must carry a minimum 13 EER and 16 SEER.

Considering the switch to heat pump heating and cooling? A tax credit of $300 could be yours if the system you choose meets the minimum requirements. To qualify:

• Package systems must carry a minimum heating season performance factor (HSPF) of 8, while also carrying a minimum 12 EER and 14 SEER.
• Split systems must carry a minimum 8.5 HSPF, 12.5 EER and 15 SEER.

If you prefer to heat your Denver area home with a furnace or boiler, a high-efficiency upgrade could qualify you for up to $150 back. To qualify:

• Natural gas and propane furnaces must carry a minimum annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) of 95 percent.
• Oil furnaces need a minimum AFUE of 90 percent.
• Gas, propane or oil boilers require a minimum AFUE of 90 percent.

If you’re upgrading your furnace, be sure to check into additional tax credits for your advanced main air circulating fan. If the fan uses less than 2 percent of the total energy consumed by the furnace, you may be eligible for an additional $50. If the fan qualifies, but the furnace does not, you may still be eligible for 30 percent back on the cost of the fan.

If you’re considering HVAC upgrades, just remember that these tax credits for energy efficiency expire on Dec. 31, 2011. To enjoy maximum savings now and over the long-term, speak to a trained technician about potential system upgrades today. For more information, contact Coffman and Companiesonline, or call us at 303-366-1112.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about  tax credits and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Coffman & Companies services the greater Denver area. Visit our website to see our special offersand get started today! 

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.