Energy-efficient Technology
Energy-efficient Technology | Heating and Air Conditioning | Reliance
Discover how HEP brings next-generation efficiency to Reliance homes and businesses with innovative heating and air conditioning systems that keep you comfortable while slashing utility costs. Our certified technicians pair smart diagnostics with ENERGY STAR ® equipment, advanced heat-pump technology, and seamlessly integrated thermostats to optimize performance in every season. From precise load calculations to meticulous installations, we ensure your system runs at peak efficiency from day one.
Choose HEP and enjoy quiet operation, healthier indoor air, and peace of mind backed by 24/7 local support. Whether you’re upgrading an aging furnace, installing a cutting-edge ductless mini-split, or scheduling a preventive tune-up, we design solutions that fit your space, budget, and sustainability goals—so you can feel good about comfort that’s as kind to the environment as it is to your wallet.
FAQs
What makes an HVAC system “energy-efficient,” and how is that measured?
Energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment is engineered to deliver the same—or better—comfort while consuming less electricity or fuel. The efficiency is expressed with standardized ratings: • SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, version 2) for air conditioners and heat pumps in cooling mode. The higher the SEER2, the less electricity the unit needs. • HSPF2 (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor, version 2) for heat-pump heating performance. • AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) for gas furnaces; a 98 % AFUE furnace converts 98 % of every fuel dollar into heat. • ENERGY STAR® certification, which verifies that the equipment performs in the top tier of efficiency for its category. Reliance offers products that meet or exceed the latest federal minimums and often carry ENERGY STAR labels, ensuring you get verified energy savings.
How much money can I expect to save by upgrading to a high-efficiency system?
Actual savings depend on your climate, existing equipment, utility rates, and usage habits, but homeowners commonly report utility-bill reductions of 20-50 %. For example, replacing a 10-SEER air conditioner installed in the early 2000s with a 17-SEER2 model can trim cooling costs by roughly 41 %. Upgrading an 80 % AFUE furnace to a 96 % AFUE furnace can lower winter gas expenses by 15-20 %. When rebates and financing incentives are factored in, many Reliance customers see a simple payback in three to seven years, after which the reduced energy costs are pure savings.
What specific high-efficiency technologies does Reliance offer?
Reliance features an array of cutting-edge options: • Variable-speed inverter compressors in heat pumps and air conditioners that adjust output in small increments instead of cycling fully on/off. • Modulating and two-stage gas valves that match furnace output to the home’s exact heating demand. • ECM (electronically commutated) blower motors that use up to 75 % less electricity than standard PSC motors. • Smart zoning systems that direct conditioned air only to occupied areas. • High-performance heat-pump water heaters and dual-fuel hybrid systems that automatically choose the most efficient heat source based on outdoor temperature. All equipment is installed and commissioned by Reliance-certified technicians to guarantee optimal performance.
Are rebates, tax credits, or other incentives available for energy-efficient HVAC upgrades?
Yes. Federal income-tax credits currently cover up to 30 % of the installed cost (with dollar caps) for qualifying heat pumps, high-efficiency air conditioners, furnaces, and advanced controls. Many provincial and utility programs offer additional instant rebates—sometimes worth $250 to $6,500—when you replace older equipment with ENERGY STAR-qualified models. Reliance keeps an up-to-date list of incentives for your area, will assist with all paperwork, and can apply most rebates at the time of sale so you realize the savings immediately.
How do smart thermostats and home-automation platforms enhance efficiency?
Smart thermostats like ecobee and Nest learn your schedule, detect occupancy, and adjust setpoints automatically, eliminating the wasted energy that results from heating or cooling an empty house. They also provide real-time energy-use feedback, weather-responsive operation, and remote control via smartphone apps. When integrated with Reliance-installed HVAC equipment, these devices can communicate over Wi-Fi or proprietary protocols to modulate compressor or burner output precisely, further reducing energy use and improving comfort.
Do high-efficiency systems require more maintenance or have a shorter lifespan?
No. In fact, variable-speed compressors and ECM motors experience less mechanical stress because they ramp up gradually rather than cycling hard on and off, which can extend component life. Routine maintenance—an annual furnace tune-up and a spring A/C or heat-pump inspection—is still essential to keep efficiencies high and warranties valid. Reliance offers affordable maintenance plans that include cleaning, safety checks, and performance testing. With proper care, today’s high-efficiency systems typically last 15–20 years, similar to or longer than conventional units.