High-efficiency Units
High-efficiency Units | Air Conditioning | Heating and Air Conditioning | Huntsville
When Huntsville heats up, HEP keeps homes refreshingly cool with cutting-edge, high-efficiency units that sip energy while delivering powerful air conditioning comfort. Our certified technicians assess your space, recommend the perfect SEER-rated system, and install it with meticulous care—so you enjoy lower utility bills and a whisper-quiet chill from the first humid afternoon to the last warm evening of the season.
Beyond installation, we back every unit with responsive maintenance plans and 24/7 emergency support. Whether you’re upgrading an aging system or building the smart home of your dreams, trust HEP to provide reliable air conditioning performance that matches Huntsville’s spirit of innovation and your family’s need for year-round peace of mind.
FAQs
What is considered a “high-efficiency” air-conditioning unit in Huntsville, and what do SEER2 and HSPF2 ratings mean?
In North Alabama, the U.S. Department of Energy now classifies split-system air conditioners as “high-efficiency” when they carry a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2 (SEER2) of about 17 or higher and heat pumps with a Heating Seasonal Performance Factor 2 (HSPF2) of 8.8 or better. SEER2 measures how much cooling a system delivers for each watt-hour of electricity it consumes during a typical season, while HSPF2 does the same for heating. The higher the number, the less energy the equipment needs to keep you comfortable. Because Huntsville’s climate has long, humid summers and a moderate heating season, selecting a unit with a high SEER2 and a solid HSPF2 ensures year-round savings.
How much can I save on my energy bills by upgrading to a high-efficiency HVAC system in Huntsville?
Homeowners who replace a 10- to 12-year-old, 10-SEER system with a 17-SEER2 or better unit typically see cooling-season savings of 30–45%. For many households in the Tennessee Valley, that translates to $300–$600 per year, depending on square footage, insulation, and thermostat habits. Because high-efficiency heat pumps also provide heating, winter savings can add another 10–20% compared with older electric strip heat or low-efficiency gas furnaces. Over the 12- to 15-year life of the equipment, the reduced utility costs usually outweigh the higher upfront price.
Are there rebates or incentives in the Huntsville area for installing high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment?
Yes. Huntsville Utilities, in partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), periodically offers EnergyRight rebates—typically $200–$600—for qualifying high-efficiency heat pumps and dual-fuel systems. Federal tax credits of up to 30% (capped at $2,000) are also available for equipment that meets the Consortium for Energy Efficiency’s Tier 2 requirements. In addition, many manufacturers provide seasonal instant rebates or extended-warranty promotions. Our team can help you complete the paperwork, submit load calculations, and verify that your chosen system meets all program criteria so you don’t leave money on the table.
Will a high-efficiency unit keep my home comfortable during Huntsville’s hot, humid summers and mild winters?
Absolutely. Modern high-efficiency systems use variable-speed or inverter-driven compressors that can ramp up or down in tiny increments. That means longer, lower-speed cooling cycles that pull more moisture from the air—key for Huntsville’s frequent 90-degree days with 70% humidity. In heating mode, high-efficiency heat pumps maintain capacity down to around 20 °F, and dual-fuel models automatically switch to a gas furnace only when outdoor temperatures drop below the economic balance point. The result is tighter temperature control, lower indoor humidity, and fewer hot or cold spots throughout the house.
Do high-efficiency systems require more maintenance than standard units?
Routine maintenance needs are about the same: two professional tune-ups per year—spring for cooling components, fall for heating components—plus monthly filter changes. However, because many high-efficiency units have advanced electronics and variable-speed motors, skipping maintenance can negate efficiency gains and shorten component life. During a tune-up, our NATE-certified technicians update firmware, test inverter boards, verify refrigerant charge using manufacturer-specific tables, and clean the outdoor coil to preserve peak performance. When properly maintained, high-efficiency systems often last longer than older single-stage equipment because they run at lower, less stressful speeds most of the time.
How do I choose the right size and model of high-efficiency HVAC unit for my Huntsville home?
Proper sizing begins with an ACCA Manual J load calculation that accounts for square footage, insulation levels, window orientation, air leakage, and even household occupancy. Oversizing can lead to short-cycling and poor humidity control; undersizing can leave you uncomfortable on the hottest July afternoons. After the load calculation, we perform a Manual S equipment selection to match the required capacity with the most efficient models available, and Manual D duct design to ensure adequate airflow. We’ll also factor in budget, desired SEER2/HSPF2 ratings, sound levels, smart-thermostat compatibility, and financing options so you end up with a system that delivers maximum comfort and value in the Huntsville climate.