An increasing number of homeowners are interested in upgrading their HVAC systems to energy-efficient heat pumps as a way to save money.

However, the upfront cost is still the most significant barrier to helping people heat and cool their homes sustainably. 

As The Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration News reported, a new survey revealed that more than 50% of homeowners said the upfront cost is their biggest roadblock to upgrading to a more efficient HVAC system. 

The AUX Air USA survey of over 600 U.S. homeowners offered insights into what's holding them back from installing heat pump systems in their households. Unfortunately, the initial investment cost can feel like a prohibitive obstacle for many individuals and families who care about the environment. 

"One thing I thought was going to happen was how much the cost is a barrier to sustainability," said Matt Lacey from AUX Air USA. "I mean, it makes sense to think about that, right? But in that survey, we realized just how big of a factor it really is." 

Homeowners looking to upgrade their HVACs and save some cash can check out TCD's HVAC Explorer to understand their options, including $0-down HVAC subscriptions, and save up to 50% on home heating and cooling costs. 

Although you might experience sticker shock when shopping for a new heat pump, the available incentives and long-term savings can help offset the costs. 

The U.S. Department of Energy has emphasized the direct connection between reducing energy usage and lowering utility bills. 

"Depending on the size of your home, local climate, and how energy-efficient your home is, savings can average over $500 per year," the DOE shared. 

Meanwhile, homeowners have been saving on the upfront costs of energy-efficient heat pumps by taking advantage of government incentives. Many people have recently received a tax credit of up to 30% for buying and installing a heat pump.

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However, it's crucial to act now to qualify for these savings, as many federal incentives are set to expire at the end of the year. 

Even if you aren't able to claim those tax credits, trusted companies that prioritize sustainability are making it easier to find affordable heat pumps that fit your budget. 

Our HVAC Explorer can help you find a reliable system and a local installer to lower your energy bills while helping the planet. An HVAC Explorer partner, Palmetto, can help you lease HVACs for as low as $99 per month, while offering 12 years of free maintenance, potentially slashing your lifetime HVAC spend. Palmetto also has a free Home app that unlocks up to $5,000 in rewards for homeowners who make simple upgrades to their homes. 

Another way to reduce your energy bills is to pair your home appliances with solar panels. If you're in the market for a bill-slashing solar panel system, consider checking out TCD's Solar Explorer.

According to the authors of the AUX Air USA survey, energy incentives and government rebates are impactful solutions to offset the costs of heat pumps and other sustainable upgrades. 

"This commitment, despite financial hurdles, reflects a growing awareness of the benefits of sustainability that go beyond environmental considerations," they wrote. "While the primary driver for many is financial, there is also an increasing recognition of the added value sustainability brings to their homes." 

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