The FAQs On Economic Stimulus HVAC Tax Credits

 help with taxesI've gotten a few questions on my recent tax credit post. I know it's a bit cumbersome to decipher The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, so I thought we'd take some time to put out a list of Frequently Asked Questions on the topic as it relates to heatingair conditioningair quality and plumbing. I hope this information helps you to make the best decision regarding your purchase of energy-efficient home improvements.

Get Home Improvement Tax Credits For Energy Saving Appliances

 The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) was signed into law on February 16, 2009 by U.S. President Barack Obama, opening the door for heating, air conditioning and indoor air quality customers to receive expanded tax credits. The tax credits apply to the installed costs of qualifying high-efficiency products and home efficiency improvements.

The tax credit is equal to 30% of the installed cost of qualifying heating and cooling improvements, up to a cumulative amount of $1,500 during the two year incentive term. The credit's term is retroactive to the beginning of the year 2009, from January 1, 2009 to the expiration date of December 31, 2010. All previous 'caps' on the credits have been removed. Consumers who previously claimed the same tax credits in prior years may also claim the 30% tax credit (up to $1,500) included in the Act.

Step Up HVAC Energy Efficiency With Google PowerMeter

 Google announced it is Beta testing Google PowerMeter, a tool for iGoogle users that will allow them to monitor their home's energy consumption daily, for free. Consumers can monitor power usage, including heating and air conditioning, then make decisions about which appliances are consuming more energy than they desire. This could positively influence both operational and buying decisions for homeowners, once they understand when the best time is to run certain appliances or when some items need to be replaced.

Google has been testing Google PowerMeter with their own employees. Here's what one had to say about the experience:

Canadian Homeowners Get New Tax Breaks!

 There's No Better Time For Home Heating & Furnace System Upgrades
canada home renovation tax creditMy Canada customers are happy today; the Home Renovation Tax Credit is now in effect! A very informative brochure is available which details the guidelines. Here's an short excerpt from the government news release: