The 2009-2010 Energy Tax Credit and You

With the passage of President Obama’s Economic Stimulus Bill, homeowners may be eligible for a tax credit if they purchase certain types of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, water heating equipment, or make other energy-related improvements to their homes between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010. As a leader in producing energy-efficient home comfort solutions, American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning offers many products that are eligible under this new law. Depending on the type of system or product purchased, it is possible to qualify for a tax credit of up to $1,500 on your 2009 or 2010 income tax return. Read on to learn how the government’s new tax credit program works, which American Standard products or systems are eligible, and how to apply for a tax credit.
 
How did the tax credit come about?
On February 17, 2009, President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (also known as the Economic Stimulus Bill) into law. This legislation combines spending and tax incentives designed to get the American economy moving again by investing in our nation’s roads and energy infrastructure, and by providing incentives for increasing the efficiency and performance of America’s homes and commercial building

How do I apply for a tax credit?
For qualified improvements, homeowners may be able to claim tax credits equal to 30 percent of the installed costs (up to $1,500). The new tax credits are retroactive to January 1, 2009 and expire on December 31, 2010. The $1,500 limit is for all improvements made during the two-year term, rather than $1,500 each year. The tax credit applies as a direct reduction of taxes owed. In the past, IRS has directed taxpayers to use Form 5695 (the Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit). It is expected that the IRS will produce new rules related to the recently enacted stimulus legislation, giving taxpayers further guidance on claiming tax credits. To fully understand how the new tax credit may apply to you and what you can do to obtain one, you should consult with a tax professional. Subject to IRS regulations. Customers should consult a tax professional for advice on tax preparation.

How do I learn more about American Standard’s energy efficient solutions?
American Standard is committed to meeting the needs of homeowners in a very dynamic environment. Your local American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning dealer can familiarize you with our broad range of energy-efficient solutions. To find a dealer near you, click here.

Which products are eligible?
Some — but not all — of American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning’s products may qualify for the tax credit.¹ Click here to see if your American Standard product or system qualifies. Your local dealer can help you determine product model numbers if necessary. ¹ To download and print the government’s summary of Energy Star products that are are eligible for HVAC credits for homeowners, click here.

source: www.americanstandardair.com

How To Reduce Your Gas Bill

There are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce your gas bill. Joels Heating and Cooling can help you with all of these steps.

Set your thermostat no higher than 68 degrees while you are at home and no higher than 60 degrees when you are not at home. A digital programer can adjust temperature automatically and is easily installed by a profesional company such as Joel's Heating and cooling. A digital programer can save you as much as 10% on your gas bill.

Have your furnace checked and cleaned annualy by a heating and cooling contractor such as Joel's Heating and Cooling. Having your furnace checked and cleaned ensures that it is running safely and effeciently. A furnace operating at peak effeciancy will definetly help reduce your gas bill.

Install a whole humidifier. Installing a whole humidifier will allow you to lower your thermostat and still feel very comfortable. The humidity created by the humidifier keeps the air moist which in turn prevents moisture from being evaporated from your skin. When moisture evaporates from your skin it cools you down. Have Joel's Heating and Cooling install a whole humidifier to help keep the air moist, help keep the furnace from drying out, and to help stop static electricity in your house.

Check your furnace air filter every month. A dirty air filter will waste energy and increase your gas bill. An even better solution than having to check your air filter every month is to have an air cleaner installed. An air cleaner will replace your furnaces 1 inch thick filter with a 10 inch thick filter and offer 99 percent effeciancy. An air cleaner will also help those who suffer from allergies by getting rid of dust, spores, bacteria, pllen, viruses, and smoke. Joel's Heating and Cooling has been installing air cleaners for over 10 years and can have one installed for you.