2021 has ushered in the new but has not altogether abandoned tried and true HVAC practices. Multiple factors have influenced the development of this year’s trends, not least of which were the 2020 Elections, the COVID pandemic and the impact of International Relations upon availability of equipment. Here is what we expect to see in the year to come:
- Emphasis on Energy Efficiency: Since the implementation of Energy Efficiency Equipment tax credits in 2017, AMS has witnessed a powerful uptick in demand for High Efficiency HVAC equipment. High Efficiency equipment is usually defined as an air conditioning system bearing a rating of 16 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) or higher. Given the fact that HVAC comprises an average of 48% of household total energy use, savvy homeowners from Rockville to Silver Spring to Bethesda are availing themselves of the higher efficiency systems, both to save money on their monthly bills and to earn the IRS’ equipment tax credit (10% of cost up to $500 or a specific amount from $50-$300). This tax credit applies to existing homes that are principal residences (not new construction or rentals) and is set to expire December 31, 2021, so this is the year to purchase your new energy efficient equipment! For more information, see: https://www.energystar.gov/about/federal_tax_credits/non_business_energy_property_tax_credits
- Demand for UV Light protection: Studies have proven that UV lights have the capacity to kill 97% of super bug bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. The CDC has reported that ultraviolet germicidal irradiation lights are being tested as powerful tools to defeat COVID-19. UV lights can be installed on heat pumps and AC systems that are connected via duct. AMS is currently offering a free UV light with the installation of a complete system, so please mention this promotion when you contact us!
- Use of Humidifiers and Air Purifiers to optimize air quality: Cool, dry air can impair the body’s immune response to respiratory infections and viruses. A 2017 Yale University School of Medicine study found that “mice housed at 10 percent relative humidity had a much harder time clearing the influenza virus from their respiratory tracts than mice housed in 50 percent relative humidity.” Humidifiers becomes critical, therefore, to maintain a proper balance of humidity of the air in your home.
Air purifiers have also taken the market by storm due to their role in filtering out dangerous particles. Whereas portable air cleaners filter the air in a single room or area, central furnace or HVAC filters are designed to filter air throughout your home. According to the EPA “Portable air cleaners and HVAC filters can reduce indoor air pollutants, including viruses that are airborne.” See EPA recommendations as to how to select a portable air cleaner for your residence.
https://www.epa.gov/coronavirus/air-cleaners-hvac-filters-and-coronavirus-covid-19
See our video on how to change your HVAC filter or call us for service of your system.
