Written by Nick Moran | February 8, 2024
Many homeowners hesitate to invest in energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment due to the cost. However, with the introduction of generous rebates and incentives, now is an excellent time to make the switch.
Current state and federal rebates, tax credits, and other incentives covering upgrades and improvements to air conditioning and heating systems, including thermostats, are designed to provide Wisconsin homeowners with substantial savings when installing new HVAC systems.
By investing in improvements through 2032, you could save thousands of dollars on equipment and utility costs, all made possible by the federal Inflation Reduction Act and various state programs.
The current administration enacted the IRA in 2022 to address climate change concerns and help the country meet its 2030 sustainability goals and 2050 net zero goals.
The act allocates around $400 billion in clean energy technologies and other resources to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 40%. Experts say the bill could also bring up to 24,000 jobs to Wisconsin over the next decade.
Available federal rebates and incentives cover 50% to 100% of the cost of purchasing and installing eligible ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances, including:
Wisconsin homeowners can also receive tax credits for 30% of the costs to install solar panels and battery storage systems. The credits are available annually, up to $2000 each year.
To qualify for this tax incentive, you must live in the U.S., and the improvements are to be made to an existing home, not a new construction. In many instances, the home must serve as your primary residence.
Wisconsin’s energy efficiency programs help homeowners in the state conserve energy while directly benefiting their community.
When you upgrade your home’s HVAC equipment, you help reduce power grid strain, decrease state spending on energy emergencies, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. You also enjoy a more comfortable home environment.
Eligible equipment includes:
A heat pump removes heat from your home in summer and brings it indoors in winter. Because heat pumps move heat instead of generating it, they can be 300% to 400% more efficient than other heating systems, offering significant savings on energy use and utility costs.
Depending on the heat pump model you choose, you can save up to $1,000.
Installing a smart thermostat is a great way to control your home’s heating and cooling settings through a mobile device.
While features vary according to brand, most digital thermostats learn your household’s temperature preferences, establishing an automatic schedule that adjusts to energy-saving settings when you’re asleep or away. Wisconsin offers a $50 cash rebate for ENERGY STAR smart thermostats.
To be eligible for rebates, you must be a current residential customer of a participating utility in Wisconsin when purchasing and installing energy-efficient equipment. Landlords, not utility account holders, who fund equipment installation in the residence of a current customer also qualify.
The rebates apply specifically to the installation of qualifying energy-efficient equipment in existing residential dwellings, excluding new constructions.
Upgrading or replacing your Wisconsin home’s HVAC system reduces energy consumption and aligns with the IRA’s goal of promoting sustainable practices.
The skilled team of professionals at All Comfort Services can expertly install a new furnace, boiler, heat pump, or complete HVAC unit and help you claim the rebates and incentives you’re entitled to.
For over 50 years, All Comfort Services has been building lifetime clients through exceptional home improvement services. Ask about our Comfort Club maintenance program that can help keep your new HVAC system well-maintained.
Call (608) 838-7300 to learn more about tax credits and rebates available in your neighborhood.
Originally from Syracuse, NY. Graduated from Springfield College. Loves sports, coaching, live music and spending time with his dog Baxter. Looks forward to helping clients find the perfect heating and cooling solutions for their homes.