Lower Energy Bills
Lower Energy Bills | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning | Sharps Chapel
Tucked between Norris Lake’s cool breezes and the rolling hills of Sharps Chapel, your home deserves comfort that doesn’t drain the wallet. HEP’s certified technicians make that possible with precision HVAC unit replacement, swapping out outdated systems for high-efficiency equipment that can trim monthly energy costs by up to 30%. From the first free estimate to the final airflow check, we handle every step in-house, leveraging local knowledge to size your new unit perfectly for East Tennessee’s hot summers and brisk winters.
Choosing HEP means straightforward pricing, industry-leading warranties, and service scheduled around your life, not the other way around. Homeowners across Sharps Chapel rave about quieter operation, steadier temperatures, and the welcome sight of lower utility bills—all delivered by a team that treats you like a neighbor because you are one. Ready to upgrade? Call, click, or stop by our Clinton Highway location and feel the difference this season.
FAQs
How will replacing my older HVAC unit actually lower my energy bills in Sharps Chapel?
Most systems installed 10–15 years ago operate at 8–12 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). Today’s ENERGY STAR® heat pumps and air-conditioners start at 15 SEER2 and go well above 20 SEER2, while furnaces reach 95–98% AFUE. In practical terms, upgrading to a high-efficiency unit can trim 20–40 percent off your monthly electric bill, because the compressor, blower motor, and refrigerant technology move the same amount of heating or cooling with far less electricity. In a climate like Sharps Chapel’s, where summer humidity and mild winter cold both drive HVAC run-times, those efficiency gains translate into year-round savings.
Which efficiency ratings should I pay attention to when selecting a new system?
1. SEER2 (cooling efficiency) – higher numbers mean lower summer energy use. In Tennessee, 15 SEER2 is the current minimum to qualify for many incentives, but 16–20 SEER2 units provide the best long-term savings. 2. HSPF2 (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) – applies to heat pumps; anything 8.8 or higher is considered high-efficiency. 3. AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) – for gas furnaces; 95%+ models waste almost no fuel. 4. ENERGY STAR® label – confirms the system meets stringent federal efficiency requirements. A reputable contractor will show you side-by-side operating-cost comparisons so you can see how each rating affects your utility bills.
Are there rebates or tax incentives available for an energy-efficient HVAC replacement in Sharps Chapel, TN?
Yes. Homeowners in Sharps Chapel can typically combine multiple savings programs: • TVA EnergyRight®: Cash rebates for installing a qualifying high-efficiency heat pump or air-conditioner through a participating contractor. • Federal 25C Tax Credit (Inflation Reduction Act): Up to 30 % of the installed cost—capped at $2,000—for heat pumps or up to $600 for qualified A/C units and furnaces that meet specified SEER2/HSPF2/AFUE levels. • Manufacturer/utility promotions: Lennox, Trane, and other brands often run seasonal rebates or 0 % financing. We’ll complete the paperwork and provide the efficiency certificates you’ll need when you file your taxes or rebate forms.
How long will an HVAC replacement take, and will I be without heating or cooling during the process?
A standard change-out (replacing the indoor air handler/furnace and outdoor condenser or heat-pump unit) usually takes 4–8 hours. Ductwork modifications or a new line-set can add a half-day. You’ll be without heating or cooling only while the old equipment is disconnected and the new system is being tied in—typically a few hours. We schedule replacements early in the day, bring pre-assembled components, and test the new system before we leave so your home is comfortable the same evening.
How do I know what size HVAC unit my Sharps Chapel home really needs?
Proper sizing is essential for both comfort and energy savings. We perform a Manual J load calculation that factors in: • Square footage and ceiling height • Insulation levels and window type • Home orientation and sun exposure • Air leakage rate and local design temperatures • Number of occupants and internal heat sources This ensures your new unit isn’t oversized (which causes short cycling and higher bills) or undersized (which runs constantly). Never rely solely on the tonnage of your existing unit—homes often change over time, and older systems were frequently over-spec’d.
How much maintenance will a new high-efficiency system require to keep energy bills low?
Modern HVAC equipment is engineered for reliability, but regular upkeep preserves efficiency: • Change or wash air filters every 1–3 months. • Schedule professional tune-ups twice a year—cooling check in spring, heating check in fall. Technicians clean coils, inspect refrigerant charge, calibrate thermostats, and tighten electrical connections. • Keep the outdoor unit clear of leaves, grass, and debris to maintain proper airflow. Following this routine can maintain factory efficiency ratings, extend equipment life well past the 15-year mark, and prevent the small performance losses that quietly drive up utility bills.