I didn’t think it could get any hotter in Florida this summer, but the number of heat advisory alerts I’ve received on my phone has been well above average. Thank goodness for central heating and air! It’s a necessity, especially here in South Florida as temperatures regularly hang out in the mid-90s for several months at a time.
Along with high temperatures year-round come high energy usage AND expensive utility bills. What can homeowners in South Florida do to keep their energy consumption under control and their families comfortable? I’ve partnered with Trane Residential, a leading HVAC provider, to gather the intel on how to save money on my electric bill, reduce my carbon footprint, and stay comfortable while being indoors!
How to Save Energy on Central Heating and Air during Hot Weather Months
What are some simple ways to save energy (and money!) during the summer in Boca Raton and the surrounding areas?
According to Trane Residential: For those looking to get the maximum bang for their buck, an eco-friendlier HVAC system such as the Trane XV20i heat pump reduces a home’s carbon footprint and utility bills. While the upfront costs may be higher for a more efficient HVAC system, it often pays for itself in the long run through lower monthly energy bills.
Many South Florida homeowners are eligible for tax breaks and incentives that can further reduce the cost of upgrading their central heating and air system or lower their tax bill. Programs like the High-Efficiency Electric Homes and Rebates Act (HEEHRA) and state-specific grants offset equipment and installation costs. You can also check out https://traneresidential.com/savings to see what system you can qualify for!
How much can I expect to save on my bill by implementing energy-saving practices during hot weather months?
If you installed/will install eligible HVAC equipment between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2032, you may be eligible for tax credits for up to 30% of installation costs (up to $1,200/year) under the expanded Energy-Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit 25C program. Plus you can receive a credit of $600-$2,000 dependent upon the system you select.
MBMOM Note: I’ll definitely be looking for this when I do our taxes next year! We just invested in a new HVAC system and I’ll take all the extra savings on our new central heating and air I can get…
Are there any smart thermostats, technologies or home improvements that can also help?
My Trane Comfort Specialist suggested taking your comfort into your own hands with a smart thermostat. By connecting your HVAC system to the internet, homeowners achieve simple and precise temperature control from virtually anywhere with a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Smart thermostats can help conserve energy and reduce your energy costs, allowing homeowners to turn off their system when not home, set a schedule for everyday or vacation, and adjust as needed.
Pro tip: Install window treatments. While it may seem like a no-brainer, remembering to close the blinds and curtains helps to block excessive light and ultraviolet rays during peak hours, shading the interior of your home from the sun and keeping it cooler during the day. I also suggest trying heat-blocking shades or UV-blocking film!
Lastly: Replace your lighting. With only 10-15% of the electricity consumed by incandescent bulbs used to create light, the rest is turned to heat, making hot days even hotter and decreasing the efficiency of your home. ENERGY STAR labeled LED bulbs help save money on utility bills, benefit the environment by using less energy and help to keep your home cool.
Are there any government rebates or incentives available for homeowners who implement energy-saving practices for their central heating and air systems?
Yes! As part of the Inflation Reduction Act (or IRA) signed in August 2022, nearly $370 billion has been set aside to incentivize residential energy-efficient purchases. Be sure to check it out and take advantage!
Thank you so much to our Trane Comfort specialist for all these helpful tips! Who knew I’d be looking forward to “cool fall weather” temperatures in the mid-80s?
Sponsored: This blog post was sponsored by Trane Residential. All opinions expressed in this blog post are my own and not influenced in any way by the sponsor. Any statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with provider and please refer to this site’s Disclosure for more information. I have been compensated, but that does not impact my views or opinions.
