High-efficiency Unit

High-efficiency Unit | Dehumidifier Installation | Heating and Air Conditioning | Alcoa

Picture a home in Alcoa where every breath feels crisp, the temperature stays exactly where you want it, and your utility bill finally gives you a break. That’s what HEP delivers with our high-efficiency heating and air conditioning units paired with expert dehumidifier installation. By wringing excess moisture out of the air before it circulates through your HVAC system, our setups run less often, last longer, and keep allergens at bay—so you enjoy perfect comfort without waste.

From the first inspection to the last tightened screw, our certified technicians treat your home like their own. We size each high-efficiency unit precisely for your square footage, calibrate humidity controls for East Tennessee’s unique climate, and back the work with industry-leading warranties. When you’re ready to upgrade to smarter, drier, more affordable comfort, HEP is just around the corner in Alcoa—ready to help, ready to serve.

FAQs

Why should I consider a high-efficiency HVAC unit with a built-in dehumidifier for my Alcoa home?

Alcoa’s humid, warm summers and cool, damp winters create year-round moisture challenges. A high-efficiency heating and cooling system paired with a whole-home dehumidifier keeps indoor relative humidity in the ideal 40–50 % range, preventing mold, dust-mite growth, and musty odors while reducing the load on your air conditioner. Because the HVAC unit doesn’t have to run as long to remove moisture, you enjoy lower utility bills, steadier temperatures, and better indoor-air quality.

How does a dehumidifier improve the performance of my heating and air-conditioning system?

When indoor air contains less moisture, it feels cooler at the same temperature setting. By wringing excess humidity out of the airstream before it reaches the living space, a dehumidifier allows you to raise the thermostat 2–3 °F in summer without sacrificing comfort. In winter the unit prevents condensation on windows and ductwork, which helps the furnace maintain consistent heat. The reduced latent load extends HVAC equipment life, cuts compressor cycling, and can lower annual energy consumption by 10–15 %.

What efficiency ratings should I look for, and do they meet Tennessee code?

For split air-conditioning systems installed in 2023 and later, Tennessee follows the Southeast regional minimums of 15.2 SEER2 (equivalent to 16 SEER) and 12.2 EER2. High-efficiency units typically start at 18 SEER2/13 EER2 and may reach 21 SEER2 or higher with variable-speed compressors. Heat pumps should carry at least 15.2 SEER2 and 8.1 HSPF2; premium models reach 20 SEER2 and 9 HSPF2. Our recommended equipment meets or exceeds ENERGY STAR® and TVA EnergyRight® standards, ensuring compliance and eligibility for local incentives.

Will adding a dehumidifier raise my power bill?

A dedicated dehumidifier does use electricity, but the net effect is usually a savings. By drying air more efficiently than the A/C coil alone, it lets you shorten cooling cycles and raise the thermostat setting, offsetting the dehumidifier’s draw. Most homeowners in Blount County see 5–10 % lower summer bills and fewer service calls because compressors and blowers run fewer hours. You also gain protection against moisture-related repair costs such as warped flooring, peeling paint, and mold remediation.

How long does installation take and what can I expect during the process?

A typical retrofit in an existing Alcoa residence takes one full working day: 4-6 hours to set the high-efficiency air handler or furnace, 2-3 hours to connect the outdoor condenser/heat-pump unit, and about 1 hour to integrate and calibrate the whole-home dehumidifier with your ductwork and smart thermostat. We schedule a pre-site visit to verify load calculations, refrigerant line sizing, and electrical capacity so there are no surprises. Our EPA-certified technicians protect flooring, clean up debris, and perform a final walkthrough showing you filter locations, humidity set-points, and app controls.

Are rebates or financing options available for Alcoa homeowners?

Yes. TVA’s EnergyRight® program currently offers $300–$600 rebates for qualifying high-efficiency heat pumps and $200 for whole-home dehumidifiers when installed by a Quality Contractor Network member. Federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act cover up to 30 % of equipment and labor costs (capped at $2,000) for heat pumps rated ≥ 18 SEER2. We also partner with local lenders to provide 0 % APR financing for 12 months or low-interest plans up to 72 months, making it easy to upgrade without a large upfront outlay.