Is a Backup Generator Worth the Investment?

Posted on May 8, 2023May 16, 2023 by PECO Heating & Cooling

Is a Backup Generator Worth the Investment?

Are you having trouble justifying the expense of a backup generator? You’re not alone! Many homeowners shy away from purchasing a backup generator because they view it as an unnecessary expense. While it’s true that a backup generator can be a significant investment, the benefits far outweigh the cost. If you’re still on the fence, here are some compelling reasons you should consider investing in a backup generator.

Whole-Home Backup Generators Vs. Portable Generators

Portable generators can be very convenient if you only want to power a few items, such as lights and small appliances, but they simply can’t provide enough power for essential systems, like electric heating, cooling, and water pumps. Permanent backup generators, however, are the ultimate solution for uninterrupted power to your entire home during an outage.

Portable generators also need to be set up before you can use them, which can be especially inconvenient if you’re away from home during a power outage. A backup generator is hard-wired to your home’s electrical system, so it’s always on standby and ready to take over once your main power goes out.

Powering Essential Systems

Although some consider backup generators a luxury item, they can be lifesavers in many ways, from keeping you warm and comfortable during a brutal winter storm outage to powering medical devices that are critical for your health. Backup generators can also keep the essential systems in your home running, such as sump pumps, septic lift stations and water pumps—and prevent costly damage from occurring.

Keeping You Connected and Powering Non-Essential Items

Picture this: a natural disaster strikes and the power goes out for days. Your phone’s battery is running out, the food in your fridge is spoiling, and the silence and darkness in your home are making you a little stir-crazy. This is where a backup generator comes in handy.

A backup generator can also provide a connection to the outside world by powering your electronics. You can keep up with the news, communicate with loved ones, and even watch a movie. Plus, it can keep your home security system operational. Even though many of these systems have battery backups, battery power could run out during an extended power outage.

Adding Value to Your Home

Not only will having a backup generator make your home more attractive to potential buyers, but it can also increase your property value. In fact, many real estate experts agree that homes with backup generators can sell for up to 5% more than similar homes without them—especially in areas that are prone to natural disasters like severe winter storms and hurricanes.

But the benefits don’t stop there; insurance companies also recognize the value of backup generators. Many insurers offer discounts on premiums for homes that have backup generators due to the reduced risk of damage caused by power outages.

Maintaining Your Quality of Life

When the power goes out, life can suddenly become challenging, especially for families with children, older adults, or individuals with medical conditions. However, with a backup generator, you can maintain your quality of life, whether it’s staying warm or cool, keeping your food fresh, or powering up medical equipment.

Backup generators can also help boost your morale and keep your spirits up during extended outages. You can listen to music, watch your favorite TV shows, or have enough light to play a board game with your family. Sometimes it’s the little things that make a big difference in stressful situations!

Expert Backup Generator Installation and Maintenance

Investing in a backup generator is a wise decision that can give you peace of mind and help you and your loved ones stay safe and comfortable during power outages. At PECO Heating & Cooling, we understand the importance of keeping your home powered, which is why we offer reliable backup generation installation and maintenance services. Don’t wait for the next outage to strike—contact us today at (864) 639-2424 to learn more or schedule an appointment!

The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act: HVAC Federal Credit & Rebates Explained

Posted on October 19, 2022October 19, 2022 by Mark Pfeiffer

Have you been planning to upgrade your HVAC equipment? Great news—the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which was signed into law in August, may be able to help you save some money.

Investing $369 billion into the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is the largest federal legislation designed to include significant rebates and tax credits for homeowners who install new energy-efficient furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, boilers, and water heaters. Here’s a breakdown of each of these incentives.

The 25C Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Tax Credit

Although this tax credit has been available for a while, the IRA increased the value of the tax credit by 20%. Instead of being limited to 10% of your project costs, it’s now up to 30%—and it’s now possible to receive a benefit each year.

The tax credit, which can only be used to offset tax liability, has an annual cap of $1,200, including:

Up to $600 for a qualified air conditioner or gas furnace
Up to $2,000 for gas and electric heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and boilers

This incentive goes into effect in 2023, and if you’re eligible, can be claimed when you file taxes in 2024. There are no income requirements and it can’t be combined with other federal programs such as HEEHR or HOMES. However, the tax credit may be able to be combined with local or utility rebates. Homeowners who had eligible equipment installed on or after January 1, 2022, may also be eligible for retroactive tax credits under this program.

The High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate (HEEHR) Program

This new $4.275 billion program covers 100% of electrification project costs for low-income households and up to 50% of project costs for moderate-income households—up to $14,000 for both income groups. Qualifying projects and maximum rebate values include:

$8,000 for electric heat pumps
$4,000 for an electric panel upgrade
$2,500 for electric wiring
$1750 for an electric heat pump water heater
$1,600 for home insulation

Project costs include both purchase costs and installation costs; rebates are given as point-of-sale discounts.

The HOMES Rebate Program

Unlike the HEEHR program, the all-new $4.3 billion Home Energy Performance-Based Whole-House (HOMES) rebate program isn’t restricted by income levels; instead, they’re based on the performance of energy efficiency and electrification improvements installed in your home. For example, homeowners who install energy-efficient appliances that allow them to cut their energy usage by at least 35% can get up to $4,000 in rebates—and that amount is doubled for low- and middle-income households.

It’s important to know that you can’t participate in both the HEEHR and HOMES programs, so you’ll need to decide which program is right for your project. If you would like help deciding which program would be best, we’re always happy to help!

Should You Get Home Upgrades Now or Wait Until 2023?

Although these incentives can provide significant savings, there are several reasons why you may not want to wait until 2023 if you’ve been considering upgrading your home:

The current state and utility rebates you qualify for now may not be around in 2023—and depending on your income, the federal rebates may not be as much of an incentive. It’s not clear at this point how the federal rebates will work with existing state and utility programs; it’s possible the federal rebates will result in lower local rebates.
Inflation will likely continue (and possibly worsen) in 2023; the rise in equipment prices may offset some of the savings you would receive from the rebate programs.
Energy costs are rising, especially the cost of natural gas—and although costs are expected to stabilize, reducing your home’s energy use today is an excellent way to mitigate uncertainty about energy prices in the future.
Due to the rebate programs, there will be a higher demand for work for HVAC contractors in the future, which could delay your project. Getting ahead of the demand will ensure you have your new equipment installed in a timely manner.

In addition, you deserve comfort! If your existing equipment isn’t keeping your home comfortable, it’s not worth putting off the work for potential savings.

Contact PECO to Learn More

Regardless of when you’d like to upgrade your home, PECO Heating & Cooling is here to help! We’re happy to work with you to find the best upgrades and rebate programs to help you save money and improve your home’s energy efficiency.

If you’re interested in the 25C tax credit, all Dave Lennox Signature Collection products in the Ultimate Comfort System qualify; Lennox also offers an assortment of ENERGY STAR-certified products that are eligible for the rebate program, including the most efficient heat pump (SL25XPV), air conditioner (SL28XCV), and furnace (SLP99V) on the market. For more information on the IRA incentives contact your accountant or to schedule an installation, contact PECO today at 864-639-2424.

Can Bad Ductwork Reduce the Efficiency of Your HVAC System?

Posted on August 11, 2022August 11, 2022 by Mark Pfeiffer

When it comes to HVAC systems, most homeowners don’t put much thought into their ductwork. It’s not surprising—although it’s responsible for moving air throughout your home and keeping you comfortable, the ducts are hidden away in the walls, ceilings, floors, and crawlspaces.

However, if you want your HVAC system to work as efficiently as possible, it’s important to put some attention on the “V”—for ventilation—in HVAC!

Damaged Ductwork

If your ventilation system is old or it wasn’t installed properly, it may be damaged. Vibrations or improperly installed connections can cause your ductwork to become loose or even collapse, inhibiting the airflow. If the lining begins to pull away, this can create a more significant blockage and cause your HVAC system to work overtime.

Over time, normal wear and tear can lead to cracks, leaks, and corrosion; damage can also be caused by renovations or pests. If left for too long, the damage will worsen and may eventually cause leaks and blockages. Defects in the ductwork, like sharp bends or dents in the material, can also cause airflow problems that reduce the overall efficiency of your system.

The bottom line is that the harder your system has to work to compensate for blockages or air leaks, the less efficient it will be. It’s also likely using more energy to heat or cool the air—which also leads to higher energy bills. If your ductwork is over 10 years old, we recommend scheduling an inspection.

Improperly Sized Ductwork

If your system has always been noisy or became noisy soon after installation, the ducts are likely improperly sized. When the ducts are too large, it causes low airflow. You may find that the temperatures throughout your house are uneven. Ducts that are too small will cause noise from restricted airflow.

It’s common for ducts to make some noise as your system moves air through them and the temperatures fluctuate, but it shouldn’t be very noticeable. Like damaged ducts, improper ductwork size or installation can put a dent in your efficiency—and your wallet. Your HVAC system will struggle to keep your home comfortable and, as a result, add more wear and tear to the motors, and compressors. This can lead to a more frequent repair cycle or the need for a premature replacement.

Dirty Ductwork

Dirty, dusty, or moldy ductwork can cause the air filters to clog up more quickly, increasing airflow resistance and making the system work harder. It can also compromise some of the system’s internal components, resulting in breakdowns and repairs. Keeping the ducts clean will improve performance, efficiency, and longevity while also improving your indoor air quality.

Is it Time to Schedule Service for Your Ductwork?

Whether your ventilation system wasn’t installed correctly or it’s started to degrade over time, regular maintenance is one of the best ways to ensure your system is running at its most efficient while keeping energy and repair costs low.

In addition to ductwork repairs and maintenance, we also offer air quality systems to keep your indoor air quality high, including air purification systems that can be added to any existing HVAC system, air filtration add-ons, and germicidal lights. Improve your comfort, reduce energy bills and the need for repairs, and improve the longevity of your system today by calling PECO Heating & Cooling at (864) 639-2424!

Can Your Heating and Cooling Ductwork Go Bad Over Time?

Posted on March 10, 2021March 10, 2021 by PECO Heating & Cooling

Every time South Carolina goes through a cold snap, you probably wonder what the heating bill will look like. You may worry about the bill going up and try to retain as much heat as possible in the house by sealing up drafty windows and doors and using rugs on hardwood floors. Sometimes, even with your best efforts, the bill still seems high. What can you do?

If your heating bill is high, one of the first places to look is your HVAC system. The easiest step is to check the filter. PECO recommends changing your filter every thirty days. If your filter is clogged with dust and debris, your system will be working hard to push air through it – and be pushing that dirt right back into your home!

Another factor to consider is your ductwork. Deteriorated ductwork can actually be leaking warm air, costing money and forcing your HVAC system to work harder than necessary, which can decrease the life of your system.

The Age of Your Ductwork

Do you know how old your ductwork is? Ductwork can start to deteriorate in as little as ten years if the original job wasn’t done correctly; the seams and seals can start to break down, letting air seep out. You may be able to see exposed duct work in the house and see signs of aging. Are the ducts cracking, sagging, or coming apart at the seams? Do you see any streaks of dust near seams?

Feel the airflow in different rooms of your house. When you turn on the air, can you feel it easily flowing through the vents in the living room, but feel just a trickle of air in the bedroom? Is there a distinct temperature difference between rooms? These could be signs that your ducts have deteriorated or there are heavy air leaks.

Duct systems today have an R8 insulation value and require all seams to be sealed with specialized tapes and adhesives. Our PECO team tapes, bands, and screws all the duct components together. This keeps seams sealed, as overtime, the tape can loosen as adhesives age.

Detriments of an Old System

Older duct systems had to meet lower energy standards than today’s duct systems. Some homes will have a grey plastic/fiberglass covering but are not sealed at the insulation seams. A few very old homes with original duct systems will not have any insulation at all!

If you have concerns about your ducts, the best thing to do is contact your local HVAC contractor. Existing duct systems where the insulation has come unwrapped in a few places can be repaired, however, if the entire system has become unwrapped it is best to replace everything. Tapes don’t stick to old, dusty insulation and seal properly. PECO can fix or replace old ducts, which can have a big impact on your comfort level in your home by allowing air to freely flow and can help decrease the bill! Contact PECO today to make an appointment to inspect your ductwork.

What You Should Know When Buying a Central HVAC Unit

Posted on April 13, 2020April 13, 2020 by PECO Heating & Cooling

Has your central air conditioning unit started to give you signs that it may be near the end of its days? Maybe you’ve noticed some strange sounds, odd smells, or just an overall lack of cool air. The average lifespan of most HVAC systems is an average of 10 to 14 years. While your HVAC unit may still have some life left, you’ll likely need to purchase a new one at some point in the future.

HVAC units are a big-ticket items with a range of features that can make purchasing one feel daunting. Luckily, we’re always here to help with recommendations and installation. Here are a few things to consider if you’re planning to purchase a new HVAC unit.

The Right Size

Homeowners make one common mistake when it comes to choosing an AC unit: they often get one that’s too large – or small – to cool their home efficiently. It would be great if replacing your HVAC unit was as simple as swapping out the old one for an identical-sized unit, but that’s unfortunately not the case.

The best way to choose a unit that will fit your cooling needs is to have one of our technicians come out and perform a load calculation. This will determine the size of the HVAC unit you’ll need to have optimal cooling for your home. The load calculation also helps us determine the amount and size of air ducts that your existing system has and whether they’re working properly.

Energy Efficiency

Another important factor to consider is choosing a new unit with the highest possible Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). This is the measurement of the amount of energy that’s needed to deliver the right amount of cooling. All AC models sold in the U.S. are required to have a SEER of at least 13; a SEER of 14 to 25.5 would be considered a high-efficiency model. Since it gets hot and humid here in the summer and you’ll likely be running your AC a lot, it’s best to choose a unit with the highest SEER you can afford. Keep in mind that all Energy Star-rated units do qualify for a federal income tax credit.

Compressor Type

By far the most important and expensive component of a central HVAC unit is the outdoor unit with the compressor. The compressor is the heart of your system that heats or cools your home through compressing the refrigerant gas.

There are three types of compressors: single-stage, two-stage, and variable capacity.

Single-stage compressors only run on a single, high speed. They turn on when the indoor temperature exceeds the temperature setting on your thermostat, then operate at 100% capacity. Once the temperature has dropped down to the desired setting, it will turn off. Since the unit is working on full blast, it can result in higher electricity bills.

Two-stage (also called dual stage) compressors operate at two speeds: high – 2/3 capacity and low – 1/3 capacity. Two-stage compressors will cycle from high to low depending on your cooling needs. Typically, they run on low, which results in more consistent temperatures in the home as well as lower electric bills.

Variable-capacity compressors work differently than either single or two-stage compressors. Variable-capacity can fluctuate from 1/3 capacity to 100% in 250 increments. They modulate during the day, providing a slow, steady stream of conditioned air. Due to the longer run times, variable capacity compressors can dehumidify your home more effectively in the cooling season. Units with this type of compressor are also easier to add zoning to your home, which can effectively increase your energy savings. As you can see, there are quite a few considerations for when you’re shopping for a new AC unit! If you’re planning to buy a new unit soon, turn to your friendly Home Service Heroes at PECO! We’re happy to help you with recommendations, performing load calculations, and installation. Schedule your appointment today by contacting us at 864-639-2424.

Lennox Sponsors HGTV’s 2019 Smart Home!

Posted on May 30, 2019May 30, 2019 by PECO Heating & Cooling

We regularly work with Lennox smart home products, so we’re very excited to see that Lennox is sponsoring HGTV’s 2019 Smart Home in the Dallas suburb of Roanoke TX! Using some of the most innovative smart technology, HGTV’s smart home showcases how automated HVAC systems can deliver unsurpassed comfort and convenience. Learn more about some of the high-quality HVAC products used in the home below!

XC25 Air Conditioner

The XC25 is one of the finest air conditioning units that Lennox makes. It’s incredibly energy efficient and has been designated as one of the most efficient Energy Star certified products of 2019 with an efficiency rating of up to 26.00 SEER, allowing you save hundreds of dollars on electricity costs yearly. The XC25 can easily be combined with solar roof modules for even more drastic cuts to your utility bill. As a nice addition, it also has SilentComfort technology that reduces sound levels to 50% quieter than that of a standard air conditioner.

SLP98V Gas Furnace

The SLP98V has Precise Comfort technology that allows it to keep the temperature distributed evenly throughout your home at the exact temperature you like. Say goodbye to cold spots around the home! It has an industry-leading energy efficiency of up to 98.7% AFUE, as has also been named one of Energy Star’s most efficient products of 2019. Like the XC25, it also boasts the SilentComfort technology and is up to 10x quieter than competitive models. With AirFlex technology, you can adjust the airflow in your home to best match your lifestyle and home design. It can also be paired with the iComfort S30 Ultra Smart Thermostat for the most precise comfort.

iComfort S30 Ultra Smart Thermostat

The iComfort only needs to be programmed once, and then you’ll never have to think about it again! With adaptive technology, it adjusts the temperature within your home according to your schedule. It actively monitors your HVAC systems and can alert you to any issues that may arise, as well as when it’s time for routine things like a filter replacement. Keep track of your system’s operation and performance with it’s daily and hourly reports via the web portal, or simply check out the monthly report that’s automatically emailed to you. It’s compatible with Google Home, Alexa, and the Apple Home Kit.

You can control and monitor your system with your smartphone (Android and Apple compatible) and with the Smart Away mode, your thermostat can detect your location using your phone’s GPS to adjust your HVAC system to be more energy efficient when you’re not at home. You can also balance the temperature and humidity using the “Feels Like” feature to create the temperature you want to feel. It’s also a great choice for allergy sufferers; the iComfort’s Allergen Defender will monitor the air quality and pollen levels in your area according to zip code and automatically turns on the fan to clear your home’s air when levels are high.

iHarmony Zoning System

The iHarmony Zoning system allows for room to room temperature control for iComfort integrated equipment. Used in combination with other Lennox equipment, you can redirect airflow to have heating and cooling wherever you’d like it in your home. It can also help you use less energy and cut costs by up to 35% when used with a programmable thermostat. The iHarmony allows every family member to have the ultimate comfortable space and can be controlled remotely with your smartphone.

Lennox MPB Mini-Split Heat Pump

The MPB is an ideal option for small spaces and add-on rooms where it isn’t practical to extend or install ductwork. It’s incredibly energy efficient with efficiency ratings of up to 24.50 SEER and 11.50 HSPF and has inverter technology that adjusts motor speeds based on outdoor weather and temperature conditions. The MPB is also very quiet, allowing you to enjoy optimal comfort without additional noise.

Pure Air S Air Purification System

Unlike many air purification systems, the Pure Air S filters out particles, germs, and odors, giving you the ability to combat the 3 main household air contaminants. The Pure Air S removes 99.9% of mold, spores, pollen, dust and pet dander, as well as 90% of flu and cold viruses, infectious bacteria and other microorganisms down to 0.01 microns. In addition, it removes approximately 50% of household odors and volatile organic compounds from sources like cooking fumes, pets, cleaning supplies, paint and more. Its smart features allow it to monitor the life of the filter as well as its purifying UVA light, so you don’t have to! When it’s time for a replacement, it will send a notification to your iComfort thermostat. The Pure Air S system doesn’t produce any ozone byproduct and actively works to reduce ozone, giving your home the healthiest, freshest air possible.

Want to learn more about any of these great smart home products, or would like to have them installed in your home? Give us a call today and we’d be happy to discuss the best products for your heating and cooling needs.

Your Home Service Heroes

Tag: HVAC Systems