Upgrading Your Air Conditioning To An ENERGY STAR Unit? You May Qualify For A Tax Break
You can reduce your annual utility bills by more than $115 if you switch to an ENERGY STAR air conditioner, but that's not the only perk associated with a high-efficiency HVAC system. Some individuals who purchase ENERGY STAR units also qualify for a tax break from the federal government. If you are considering an ENERGY STAR air conditioner, review the information below and contact an appliance services specialist with any questions.
Determine Eligibility
Before you choose a high-efficiency air conditioner over another unit, you may want to make sure you qualify for a tax deduction. Rental homes do not qualify for an ENERGY STAR credit, so you can't apply for one if you rent an apartment, mobile home, house, or condo. You cannot receive a credit if your home is under construction when the unit is installed, nor can you request a deduction for a home that is not your primary residence.
Choose a Qualifying Unit
It's important to remember that some ENERGY STAR air conditioners do not qualify for a federal tax break, although they do still help reduce your carbon footprint and reduce energy expenses. As of 2016, you may be eligible for a tax credit if you choose a central air conditioning unit with ENERGY STAR approval and a qualifying SEER and EER. SEER is the acronym for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and EER refers to Energy Efficiency Ratio.
If you choose a single unit, make sure it has a SEER of at least 16 and an EER of at least 13. A package unit must have a SEER of at least 14 and an EER of at least 12.
Keep Relevant Documentation
The IRS doesn't issue refunds based on the honor system, so you have to provide relevant documentation if you request an ENERGY STAR credit at tax time. You may need the model number of the air conditioner you purchase, as well as its coil model number. An air conditioning business can help you find this information and provide you with a receipt if you decide to purchase a qualifying unit.
Meet With an Expert
It can be difficult to navigate through the requirements established by the federal government when you shop for new air conditioning units. If you have questions that weren't addressed above or simply want to learn more about how an ENERGY STAR air conditioner can benefit your family, contact an appliance specialist, like one at Ron Hammes Refrigeration, for answers.