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Lower Utility Bills
Lower Utility Bills | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning | Kelso
When Kelsoâs seasons shift from damp, chilly mornings to sun-soaked afternoons, your comfort shouldnât come with a sky-high power bill. HEPâs Lower Utility Bills Heating and Air Conditioning team makes it easy to trade aging equipment for modern efficiency with our expert HVAC unit replacement service. We evaluate your homeâs layout, recommend Energy Starârated systems, and install them with minimal disruptionâso you feel the difference in comfort and on your next utility statement.
Every replacement comes backed by transparent pricing, flexible financing, and attentive local technicians who treat your home like their own. Whether youâre battling inconsistent airflow, loud rattles, or soaring energy costs, HEP delivers a tailored solution that pays you back month after month. Schedule your free estimate today and discover how effortless staying cozy in Kelso can be.
FAQs
How do I know itâs time to replace my HVAC unit instead of repairing it?
Most systems last 12â15 years in Kelsoâs damp climate. If your unit is approaching this age, requires frequent repairs, or your energy bills have risen 20 % or more despite regular maintenance, replacement is usually more cost-effective. A licensed technician can perform a load calculation and energy-use analysis to confirm whether a new, high-efficiency system will pay for itself through lower utility costs.
How can a new HVAC system lower my monthly utility bills?
Modern furnaces and air conditioners use variable-speed motors, smart thermostats, and refrigerants with higher heat-transfer efficiency. A new unit with a SEER2 rating of 16â20 or an AFUE of 95 %+ can cut heating and cooling costs by 30â40 % compared with equipment installed before 2010. Because Kelso experiences cool, wet winters and mild summers, high-efficiency heat pumps are particularly effective, providing both heating and cooling from a single appliance while consuming far less electricity than older resistance heaters or low-SEER air conditioners.
What efficiency ratings should I look for when choosing a replacement unit for Kelsoâs climate?
For cooling, look for a SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2) of at least 16; heat pumps rated 18â20 SEER2 perform exceptionally well during Kelsoâs occasional heat waves. For heating, choose an AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) of 95 % or higher for gas furnaces or an HSPF2 (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor 2) of 8.1 or better for heat pumps. ENERGY STAR-certified systems meet or exceed these benchmarks and qualify for local incentives.
Are there rebates or incentives available in Kelso for high-efficiency HVAC replacements?
Yes. Cowlitz County PUD, Cascade Natural Gas, and federal programs currently offer rebates ranging from $300 to $2,000 for ENERGY STAR heat pumps, smart thermostats, and high-efficiency gas furnaces. Additional tax credits of up to 30 % of project cost (maximum $2,000) are available under the federal Inflation Reduction Act. Our team will prepare the paperwork and verify that your chosen equipment meets all eligibility requirements.
How long does an HVAC replacement take, and will my home be without heat or AC?
A straightforward change-out in an existing Kelso home typically takes one full dayâabout 6â8 hours. Complex projects that include duct modifications may require two days. We coordinate the timing so you are without heating or cooling for only a few hours. Portable heaters or window units can be provided at no charge if the weather is extreme during installation.
What maintenance practices keep my new system running efficiently after installation?
Replace or clean filters every 1â3 months, keep outdoor condenser coils free of debris, and schedule professional maintenance each spring and fall. Regular tune-ups include checking refrigerant charge, tightening electrical connections, and calibrating the thermostat, which can improve efficiency by up to 15 %. Enrolling in our Kelso Comfort Club provides priority service, biannual inspections, and parts-and-labor discounts to preserve your manufacturer warranty and sustain low utility bills.