Energy Efficiency
Energy Efficiency | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Jellico
Nestled in the hills of Jellico, HEP helps homeowners and businesses stay comfortable through every season while shrinking utility bills. Our certified technicians design and install high-efficiency heat pumps, furnaces, and AC systems engineered to perform flawlessly in East Tennessee’s unique climate. From smart thermostats that learn your schedule to precision duct sealing that keeps conditioned air where it belongs, we make energy savings effortless—and immediate.
We also know true comfort goes beyond temperature. That’s why our solutions place a spotlight on ventilation and air quality, introducing fresh, filtered air into your living spaces and whisking contaminants away before they can settle. Whether you’re battling excess humidity, lingering odors, or allergy-triggering particles, HEP pairs advanced filtration technology with balanced airflow strategies so every breath in your Jellico home feels as clean and invigorating as the mountain breeze outside.
FAQs
How can an energy-efficient HVAC system lower my utility bills in Jellico’s climate?
Jellico sees muggy, 90 °F summers and chilly winters that can drop below freezing. A high-efficiency heat pump or furnace uses advanced compressors, variable-speed blower motors, and improved heat exchangers to move more heat with less electricity or fuel. Compared with a 10- to 15-year-old unit, today’s ENERGY STAR® equipment can cut heating and cooling costs by 20–40 %. Over a typical 15-year life span, that can mean thousands of dollars in savings for a Jellico homeowner, in addition to more consistent indoor temperatures and quieter operation.
What efficiency ratings should I look for when replacing my air conditioner or heat pump?
In Tennessee, new central air conditioners and heat pumps must meet the 2023 SEER2 standard of 14.3 (15 SEER equivalent). For the best long-term economy, we recommend looking for: • 16–18 SEER2 (18–20 SEER) or higher for air conditioners. • 8.8 HSPF2 (9.5 HSPF) or higher for heat pumps. A variable-speed or inverter-driven compressor paired with an ECM indoor blower will deliver the highest comfort and humidity control during Jellico’s humid summers while using the least energy.
Why is proper ventilation important for indoor air quality and energy savings?
Modern homes are tightly sealed to save energy, but that can trap moisture, odors, and airborne pollutants such as VOCs, radon, and allergens. A balanced mechanical ventilation system—like an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) or heat recovery ventilator (HRV)—exchanges stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while transferring up to 80 % of the heat or cooling that you already paid for. This keeps your home healthier without driving up utility costs, and it helps your HVAC system run more efficiently by controlling indoor humidity.
How often should my HVAC system be serviced, and what does a tune-up include?
Most manufacturers—and utility companies in Campbell County—recommend a professional tune-up twice a year: once in the spring for cooling and once in the fall for heating. A comprehensive service visit should include: • Cleaning or replacing air filters • Inspecting refrigerant charge and checking for leaks • Cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils • Testing safety controls, capacitors, and electrical connections • Lubricating motors and bearings • Confirming thermostat calibration and airflow Regular maintenance can prevent up to 80 % of breakdowns, extend equipment life, and keep your system operating at peak efficiency.
Are there rebates or tax incentives in Jellico for upgrading to high-efficiency equipment?
Yes. Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) EnergyRight® offers rebates of $200–$500 for qualifying high-efficiency heat pumps and $50–$150 for advanced thermostats. Federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provide up to 30 % of the project cost—capped at $2,000—for heat pumps meeting specific efficiency levels and $600 for qualified air conditioners or furnaces. Home energy audits are also eligible for a $150 federal credit. Always keep your purchase receipts and AHRI certificate to claim incentives.
What simple steps can I take to improve indoor air quality without major renovations?
• Replace 1-in. pleated filters every 60–90 days or upgrade to a media filter rated MERV-11 to MERV-13. • Run bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans for at least 10 minutes after cooking or showering to limit moisture and odors. • Use a smart thermostat to control humidity; aim for 40–50 % year-round. • Schedule duct cleaning and sealing if you notice dust buildup or musty smells—leaky ducts waste up to 30 % of conditioned air. • Add portable HEPA air purifiers in bedrooms and living areas, especially during allergy season or wildfire smoke events. • Keep floors clean with HEPA-filter vacuuming and damp mopping to reduce dust and allergens. Together these low-cost measures can dramatically boost air quality and ease the workload on your HVAC system.