Energy Efficiency
Energy Efficiency | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning | Crab Orchard
When Crab Orchard’s weather swings from humid summer afternoons to frosty winter mornings, your comfort—and your utility bill—depend on a system that’s up to the challenge. HEP’s Energy Efficiency Heating & Air Conditioning team specializes in HVAC unit replacement, pairing the latest high-SEER equipment with meticulous installation techniques that maximize airflow and minimize energy waste. Our certified technicians begin with a free, no-pressure assessment, pinpointing the exact system size your home requires so you never pay for power you don’t need.
From helping you navigate TVA energy-efficiency rebates to offering flexible financing, we make upgrading effortless—and immediately rewarding. Most homeowners report noticeable improvements in air quality and a drop in monthly costs within the first billing cycle. Ready to breathe easier, save money, and enjoy year-round comfort? Call or text HEP today and discover how seamless an HVAC unit replacement can be in Crab Orchard.
FAQs
Why should I consider replacing my older HVAC system instead of continuing to repair it?
Most systems installed before 2010 operate at 10–13 SEER and 70–80 AFUE. A new high-efficiency heat pump or furnace/AC combo can reach 16–20 SEER2 and 95 + AFUE, cutting annual utility costs in Crab Orchard by 25–40 %. After about the third major repair—or if the unit is 12–15 years old—the cumulative repair costs and higher energy bills usually exceed the monthly payment on a new, efficient system. New equipment also offers better humidity control, quieter operation, stronger manufacturer warranties, and compatibility with smart thermostats.
How much can a high-efficiency replacement really save on energy bills in Crab Orchard’s climate?
Crab Orchard experiences muggy 85 °F summers and winter lows in the 20 s. Because HVAC runs year-round, energy consumption is roughly 50 % of the average home’s utility bill. Upgrading from a 12 SEER air-conditioner to an 18 SEER unit can save about 30 % on summer cooling costs. Replacing an 80 AFUE gas furnace with a 96 AFUE model can save 15–20 % on winter heating. For an average local household spending $1,800 a year on heating and cooling, that’s $450–$550 saved annually, paying for the new system in 6–8 years while providing greater comfort.
What efficiency ratings and system size should I choose for my home?
SEER2 (cooling) and HSPF2 or AFUE (heating) measure efficiency. In our region, the DOE recommends at least 15 SEER2 / 8.1 HSPF2 for heat pumps or 95 AFUE for gas furnaces. Size is expressed in tons (cooling) or BTU/hr (heating) and must match your home’s heat-loss/gain load. A professional Manual J calculation considers square footage, insulation, windows, orientation, and occupancy. Oversizing causes short-cycling and excess humidity; undersizing shortens equipment life and sacrifices comfort. During an in-home assessment we measure the home and propose the right capacity—typically 1 ton per 600–800 sq ft, but load calculations are essential.
Are there rebates, tax credits, or financing options available for HVAC replacement in Crab Orchard?
Yes. • Federal: The 25C Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit offers up to $2,000 on qualifying heat pumps and $600 on high-efficiency furnaces/AC coils. • Utility: Appalachian Power’s TakeCharge program (or TVA EnergyRight, depending on service area) pays $200–$400 per ton for 15 SEER2+ heat pumps and offers 0 % loans on approved projects. • State & Local: West Virginia’s HOMES program rebates $2,000–$4,000 when total home energy savings exceed 20 %. • Our company partners with local lenders for low-interest or same-as-cash financing so you can spread the investment over 6–120 months.
How long will installation take and will I be without heating or cooling during the process?
A standard like-for-like replacement (indoor coil/air handler, outdoor condenser, furnace if applicable, and thermostat) takes one full day—typically 6–10 hours. You’ll be without HVAC power while we disconnect the old unit and set the new one, usually 3–5 hours. We schedule winter jobs early in the morning and summer jobs at dawn so interior temperatures stay tolerable. More complex projects—duct modifications, new line-sets, zoning dampers, or attic platform work—may take 2–3 days. We always leave at least one room-mounted space heater or portable AC if an overnight outage is required.
What maintenance does my new high-efficiency HVAC system require to stay efficient and keep the warranty valid?
1) Filter changes: Replace 1-inch filters monthly or 4-inch media filters every 3 months. 2) Coil & blower cleaning: Have indoor and outdoor coils cleaned annually to prevent airflow restrictions that can raise energy use by 15 %. 3) Refrigerant check: Verify charge and pressures each spring; under-charging by only 10 % can cut efficiency by 5 –10 %. 4) Drain line flush: Flush condensate lines to avoid clogs and water damage. 5) Thermostat updates: Ensure firmware is current so your smart thermostat maintains optimal schedules. 6) Record-keeping: Most manufacturers require documented professional maintenance once a year to keep 10-year parts coverage valid. We offer an Energy Savings Plan that includes two visits per year, priority service, and parts/labor discounts.