High-efficiency Equipment
High-efficiency Equipment | HVAC Unit Replacement | Heating and Air Conditioning | Shelbyville
When Shelbyville’s muggy summers or crisp winters push an older system past its limits, HEP steps in with high-efficiency equipment that cuts energy bills while cranking up comfort. Our factory-trained technicians size, select, and install systems that meet rigorous ENERGY STAR® standards, so you’ll feel the difference in every room—and on every utility statement—starting the very first month.
Choosing HEP for your HVAC unit replacement means zero guesswork and zero hassle. From free, no-pressure estimates to rapid scheduling, transparent pricing, and iron-clad warranties, we’re committed to making your upgrade smooth and surprisingly affordable. Ready to trade breakdown worries for dependable, year-round comfort? Call or click today and let HEP raise the bar on home climate control in Shelbyville.
FAQs
What makes a system “high-efficiency,” and how is it different from the HVAC unit I have now?
A high-efficiency HVAC system uses advanced technologies—such as variable-speed compressors, modulating gas valves, electronically commutated (ECM) blower motors, and smarter control boards—to deliver more heating or cooling with less energy. Air-conditioning efficiency is expressed as SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, version 2) and heating efficiency for gas furnaces is shown as AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). Older Shelbyville homes often have equipment rated 10–14 SEER and 80 AFUE; today’s high-efficiency options start around 16–18 SEER2 for heat pumps/ACs and 95–98 AFUE for gas furnaces. Besides lower utility bills, you’ll notice steadier temperatures, quieter operation, and better humidity control.
How much can I save on energy bills by upgrading to a high-efficiency HVAC system?
Savings depend on your home’s size, insulation, and current equipment. In Shelbyville’s climate, replacing a 12-SEER air conditioner with an 18-SEER2 heat pump can trim cooling costs by roughly 35–40 %. Upgrading an 80 AFUE furnace to 96 AFUE can cut gas consumption 15–20 %. For a typical 2,000-sq-ft home that spends about $1,800 a year on heating and cooling, that translates to $400–$600 in annual utility savings. Many homeowners see payback on the added cost of high-efficiency equipment within 5–7 years, and quicker if energy prices rise.
Are there rebates or tax incentives available in Shelbyville for high-efficiency HVAC replacements?
Yes. As of this year: • Federal 25C Tax Credit—up to 30 % of project cost, capped at $2,000 for qualifying heat pumps or $600 for qualifying air conditioners/furnaces. • TVA EnergyRight and Shelbyville Power & Water rebates—$150–$400 per ton for heat pumps that meet specified SEER2/HSPF2 levels (amounts change periodically). • Low-to-Moderate Income (LMI) Weatherization funds—extra assistance for eligible households. • Utility bill financing—0 % on-bill financing for select high-efficiency units (approval required). Keep your detailed invoice, AHRI certificate, and installation permits; you’ll need them when filing taxes or rebate paperwork. Our team handles all documentation and lets you know which models qualify.
How long will my HVAC replacement take, and will I be without heating or cooling during the process?
A standard like-for-like replacement in Shelbyville usually fits into one workday (6–10 hours). We start by protecting floors, recovering refrigerant, and removing the old indoor and outdoor units. If duct modifications, line-set replacement, or electrical upgrades are needed, the job can extend to a second day. You’ll typically be without heating/cooling only while the old unit is out—4–6 hours in most cases. We schedule installations so you are never without climate control overnight unless major duct or structural work is planned and you agree beforehand.
How do I know what size and type of high-efficiency equipment my home needs?
Correct sizing is critical; bigger is not better. Before quoting, our comfort consultants perform a Manual J load calculation that factors square footage, insulation R-values, window area, orientation, air-leakage rates, and local Shelbyville design temperatures. The calculation determines the exact BTUs (heat) or tons (cooling) your home needs to stay comfortable on the hottest and coldest days. From there, we discuss fuel type (high-efficiency gas furnace plus AC, dual-fuel, or all-electric heat pump), desired features (two-stage vs. variable speed), budget, and available rebates. This ensures you get optimum efficiency, quieter operation, and balanced humidity without short-cycling or excessive run times.
Does a new high-efficiency HVAC system still require regular maintenance, and what does that involve?
Absolutely. High-efficiency components operate with tighter tolerances, so routine care preserves performance, longevity, and warranty coverage. We recommend: • Filter checks/replacement every 30–90 days. • Professional tune-up twice a year—spring for cooling, fall for heating—which includes coil cleaning, refrigerant verification, blower calibration, condensate inspection, and firmware updates on communicating systems. • Annual outdoor coil wash to maintain airflow. • Thermostat/firmware updates and system diagnostics via the smart thermostat or app (if equipped). Most manufacturers require documented maintenance to keep 10-year parts or labor warranties valid, and many local utilities extend rebate warranties only if you maintain the system. Our ComfortCare Plan bundles these visits at discounted rates and provides priority service should issues arise.