HVAC Efficiency Program

Improve the Efficiency of Your Heating and Cooling Equipment

Is your heating or cooling system noisy? Do you notice excess dust collecting in your home? These may be signs that it is time to replace your HVAC system. Upgrading to high-efficiency HVAC equipment can help you save up to 20% annually on energy costs.

Other signs it may be time to replace your HVAC system: 

  • Your equipment needs frequent repairs, and your energy bills are going up.
  • Some rooms in your home are too hot or too cold.
  • Your equipment is more than 10 years old.

Not sure how old your unit is or if it is time to replace it? Contact your contractor or click here to learn more.

Why Choose High-Efficiency Equipment?

  • Better Savings: Nearly half of the energy in your home goes to heating and cooling. A properly installed and maintained system can reduce energy use, improve comfort, and help you save money.
  • Increased Comfort: It’s a difference you can feel. With even temperatures, controlled humidity, less noise, and dust, you will enjoy the new comforts of home.
  • Better Quality: High-efficiency equipment will last longer, and you’ll be less likely to need costly repairs.

 

New Financing Available for Heating and Cooling Upgrades

Interested in financing opportunities for high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment? You may qualify for low-interest loans for recommended energy-efficient improvements. Find out more about financing options here.

 

You may be eligible to receive Inflation Reduction Act federal tax credits* of up to 30% of the project cost for high-efficiency ENERGY STAR® certified hybrid water heaters and air source heat pumps (up to a maximum credit of $2,000 per year). For more information, visit these sites: Air Source Heat Pumps Tax Credit| Heat Pump Water Heater Tax Credit or talk with your contractor. 

Already upgraded to a high efficiency unit? Make sure your equipment stays in peak performance by scheduling an annual check-up with your contractor and taking simple actions you can do yourself. Click here to learn more.

 

High-Efficiency HVAC and Heat Pump Water Heater Equipment**

Minimum required efficiency levels

EquipmentTierSEER2HSPF2
Air Source Heat Pump*
OR 
Ducted Mini-split Heat Pump*		115.26.7 (Packaged) 
7.5 (Split)
216.9
Ductless Mini-split Heat PumpMulti-Zone15.57.5
Single Zone187.5
Central Air Conditioner*115.2

N/A

216.9

N/A

Geothermal Heat Pump (Closed Loop)17.1 EER & 3.6 COP
Smart ThermostatENERGY STAR Certified
Heat Pump Water HeaterENERGY STAR Certified

*Both Single Packaged Units and Split Systems are eligible for ASHP and CAC rebates. 

**Effective for equipment installed on and after April 1st, 2024: The Residential HVAC Midstream program is targeting high SEER2 energy efficient ASHPs, Ductless Mini-Splits, and CACs. The programs will continue to collect SEER2, EER2, and HSPF2 data on the applications, however equipment will only need to meet or exceed SEER2 and HSPF2 values listed to qualify for incentive funds. EER2 does not have a minimum energy efficiency requirement to qualify.

 

Is it time to replace your HVAC system?

Maintenance Checklist

 

energy star award

 

 

EmPOWER Maryland programs are funded by a charge on your energy bill. EmPOWER programs can help you reduce your energy consumption and save you money. To learn more about EmPOWER and how you can participate, click here.

The EmPOWER Maryland charge funds programs that can help you reduce your energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and save you money. Since the inception of the EmPOWER Maryland program in 2008, the programs have saved $14.5 billion on installed measures at a cost of $4.1 billion. In addition to new program costs, this charge includes paying off the uncollected costs that were accrued over time by programs required by the EmPOWER statute and authorized by the Commission. In accordance with House Bill 864 the uncollected amounts will be fully paid by the end of 2032.