DG Service Company

2011 Energy Tax Credit

Federal income tax credits are available to consumers who upgrade certain HVAC components in their homes.  Receive 10% of the cost, up to $500, with the exception of the following:

• $300 for central air conditioners
• $300 for electric heat pumps and energy efficient water heaters
• $150 for high efficiency natural-gas, oil, and propane furnaces
• $150 for high efficiency hot water boilers

IRS energy credit tips on video:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_WUOYM8x-k

The IRS Form 5695 is used to claim the credit when you file your taxes. Consult your accountant or tax preparer for additional guidance.

Air Filtration

One of the important tasks of good HVAC preventative maintenance to ensure indoor air quality in homes and buildings is the proper selection and sizing of air filters. There are five popular sizes of air filters:  16 in. x 20 in.; 20 in. x 20 in.; 16 in. x 25 in.; 20 in. x 25 in.; and 24 in. x 24 in.  As well as an array of odd sizes for older systems.

<< Difference between a new filter(L) and a used filter that should be replaced(R).

"Filter types include electrostatic, pleated, HEPA, and activated carbon.  Filters that can be seen through use fibers that work via impingement, which helps capture bigger particles.  The fiberglass throwaway filter has little efficiency on small particles that matter.  For impurities that go right through most filters, a higher efficiency filter - such as pleated filter - would serve better."  Jeff Holt, Past President of the National Air Filtration Association

Using ultraviolet light in HVAC systems

The Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) Journal published an article on using ultraviolet light in HVAC systems as an alternative to coil cleaning.  Although the use of this technology is relatively new, it offers multiple benefits of germicidal UVC technology and energy conservation.

"UVC's growing popularity has been fueled by the trend toward green/sustainable building practices and offers diverse operational advantages:

• Improved air quality by preventing the spread of infectious disease
• Energy savings
• Maintenance savings
• Equipment service life

UVC improves air quality by preventing the spread of infectious diseases, and also by reducing the allergy and asthma symptoms commonly triggered by biofilm, a matrix of bacteria, mold, debris and other organisms that are widely prevalent in air handlers.  Additionally, UVC creates safer, more comfortable indoor environments and has been linked to improved productivity in office buildings, reduced absenteeism in schools, and reduced likelihood of occupant complaints."

  Read the entire article by Robert Scheir, PH.D.pdf (940.8K)

Properly installed and maintained HVAC systems create a building's environment

Problems with HVAC systems come in many forms: design, improper installation, or poor maintenance.  Planned maintenance is the best preventative insurance a building owner can purchase.  Regularly changed filters keep airflow at optimal levels, while protecting the duct from dust particles and creating a healthier environment for occupants. Regular check ups of refrigerant levels, belt drive, etc. assure lowest operating cost and help to protect against expensive failure of equipment and building HVAC system downtime.