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There’s good news to come out the fiscal cliff deal for homeowners looking to retrofit their existing homes with more efficient HVAC equipment or install high-efficiency systems in their new homes. The 25C energy tax credits, which expired at the end of 2011, are back on for heating and cooling equipment, as well as water-heating systems. Take upgrades a step further and you can get tax credits for upgrades to the home’s structure. Find out what equipment and materials qualify for the credits, and the general guidelines you must follow.

The Energy Star program helps consumers select products and appliances which use less electricity than alternatives with standard rates of consumption. If you’re upgrading your home’s HVAC equipment, look for the Energy Star symbol on products including air conditioners, furnaces, water heaters and heat pumps.

Does your air conditioner have the correct airflow and refrigerant charge? Unless you are a certified HVAC professional, you probably don’t even know what the correct airflow and refrigerant charge is, much less how to check it and make adjustments. But having the correct amount of refrigerant and the correct amount of air flowing through your A/C system is vital if you want your air conditioner to cool efficiently and last a long time.

Summertime in Michigan means your air conditioning is running. The bad news is that every degree you turn the thermostat down makes your energy bill go up. The good news is that there are ways to stay comfortable while saving money. Here are some A/C operating tips:

Michigan homeowners who have had to buy refrigerant for their old air conditioning systems this year have faced a bit of sticker shock: R-22 Freon prices have roughly tripled in 2012. 

If you’re considering making an equipment upgrade, one of the most important factors you should consider is efficiency. However, equipment is rated differently depending on what it does. It’s essential to avoid comparing apples to oranges, so here’s a look at how efficiency is defined among some of the most popular types of HVAC equipment and the efficiency ratings you should look for.

Are you in the market for a new home comfort system? There are seven energy-saving, comfort-boosting qualities you should look for. Keep them in mind when you upgrade HVAC equipment.

Your heat pump is likely the most sophisticated and efficient machinery in your home. To maximize your energy savings, and home comfort, learn how your heat pump works to help you keep it in optimal working order.

A new heating/cooling system is a substantial, long-term investment for a homeowner. It will have to operate safely and efficiently for more than a decade. It will require competent installation and all service should be performed by certified technicians. Given these factors, how do you make the choice of an HVAC contractor? First, rule out the neighborhood jack-of-all-trades who passes out fliers. You want an experienced expert — not an amateur, learning on the job. Here are a few tips to separate the pros from the wannabes:

When you’re buying HVAC equipment, one of the first places you may start is online, where information is quick and easy to access. However, there’s a lot to learn about heating and air conditioning before you select the right system for your home. The best place to start is with an HVAC contractor, who can explain the basics and subtleties of the systems you depend on for interior comfort.