Energy-efficient System

Energy-efficient System | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning | Kelso

When your aging furnace rattles all night or your AC struggles through Kelso’s unpredictable seasons, HEP makes comfort simple with expert HVAC unit replacement. Our certified technicians size each energy-efficient system precisely to your home, remove the old equipment with care, and install cutting-edge heat pumps or high-efficiency gas furnaces that can trim up to 30% off your utility bills. From smart thermostats to whisper-quiet air handlers, every component is engineered for maximum performance and minimum energy waste, so you feel the difference the moment we power on your new system.

We back each installation with transparent pricing, industry-leading warranties, and a satisfaction guarantee that keeps neighbors talking. Whether you’re planning ahead for winter’s chill or need an emergency upgrade during a summer heatwave, HEP delivers prompt scheduling, tidy workmanship, and dependable maintenance plans that protect your investment for years to come. Enjoy fresher air, lower costs, and the peace of mind that comes from partnering with Kelso’s trusted comfort specialists.

FAQs

How do I know it’s time to replace rather than repair my HVAC system in Kelso?

Most systems last 12–15 years. If yours is in that range and you’ve had multiple service calls in the last two seasons, a replacement is usually more cost-effective. Other red flags include rising utility bills, uneven temperatures from room to room, loud operation, or the use of discontinued R-22 refrigerant. A professional load calculation and cost-of-ownership comparison will confirm whether investing in a new, energy-efficient unit will pay off sooner than further repairs.

What energy-efficient HVAC options are available, and how much can I save?

High-efficiency heat pumps (up to 22 SEER2/10.5 HSPF2), variable-speed gas furnaces (up to 98% AFUE), and dual-fuel hybrid systems are the most popular upgrades in the Kelso area. Compared with a 10-SEER air conditioner or 80%-AFUE furnace installed in the early 2000s, today’s systems can cut heating and cooling costs 30–50%. On a typical 2,000-sq-ft home with $200 average monthly energy bills, that translates to $600–$1,200 in annual savings, often paying for the equipment in 5–7 years.

Are there local rebates or tax incentives for high-efficiency HVAC replacements?

Yes. Cowlitz PUD currently offers rebates of $800–$1,200 for qualifying heat pumps and $500 for smart thermostats. Washington State sales-tax exemptions apply to eligible ductless heat pumps. Federally, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides a tax credit of 30% of project cost—up to $2,000—for ENERGY STAR heat pumps or up to $600 for high-efficiency furnaces and central A/C units installed in 2023–2032. Our team will prepare the paperwork and verify product eligibility so you receive every available incentive.

How long does a typical HVAC replacement take and will I be without heating or cooling?

A straight replacement of an existing split system generally requires one full day (6–8 hours). More complex jobs—such as converting from electric resistance heat to a heat pump, adding new duct runs, or installing a dual-fuel system—may take two days. During removal and install the system is off, but we stage work so your home is without heating/cooling for only 2–4 hours. Portable heaters or spot coolers can be supplied at no charge if vulnerable occupants are present.

What size HVAC system do I need for my Kelso home?

Proper sizing is crucial for efficiency and comfort. We perform a Manual J load calculation that factors in square footage, insulation R-values, window types, air infiltration, orientation, and local Kelso climate data (Design temps: 24 °F winter / 88 °F summer). For example, many 2,000-sq-ft Kelso homes require only a 2.5- to 3-ton heat pump—not the 4-ton units often installed decades ago. Oversized equipment short-cycles, wastes energy, and shortens component life; undersized units struggle on the hottest and coldest days.

How do high-efficiency heat pumps perform in Kelso’s climate compared with traditional furnaces and air conditioners?

Modern cold-climate heat pumps maintain 100% heating capacity down to 17 °F and operate efficiently to about 0 °F, which covers nearly all Kelso winter conditions. They provide both heating and cooling in one unit, eliminating the need for separate furnace and A/C equipment. With variable-speed compressors, they deliver steady temperatures and better humidity control, often operating at one-third the cost of electric baseboard heat and 20–30% less than a high-efficiency gas furnace plus A/C combo. Backup electric or gas heat is still recommended for extreme cold snaps but engages only a few hours per year.