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FLORIDA CASH FOR CLUNKER AC SYSTEMS DETAILS ANNOUNCED!
Posted by Bryan Guentner on Wednesday, August 25th, 2010 at 11:05am.State officials, announcing long-awaited details of its latest "cash for clunker" program Friday, said Floridians could snare a $1,500 flat fee rebate for replacing their central air conditioning systems with more energy efficient units starting this month.
The program opens Aug. 30, and will run through the end of the year or until the $15 million the Governor's Energy Office set aside for it runs out. But getting that cash back will be more complicated than it was for the new refrigerators, dishwashers and other items that tens of thousands of Floridians bought during the wildly popular "cash for clunker appliance" program earlier this year.
The money, which comes through federal stimulus funding approved last year, will cover only 10,000 rebates. By comparison, the clunker-appliances program had enough for more than 70,000 rebates. And the Energy Star air-conditioning program is tied to duct system inspections. Homeowners must show proof their ducts leak 15 percent or less after their new units are installed, and pay themselves for those tests or any required repairs.
State officials warn that about 12 percent of Florida homes probably can't qualify, as their ducts can't be accessed for repairs. "It is strongly recommended that the homeowner discuss any concerns with a Florida-licensed installer before pursuing this rebate," the rebate website said.
Here is what you need to know about the cash for clunker air conditioner program. For more details, go to: http://www.rebates.com/floridahvac.
Will I qualify if I installed new air conditioning last month? No, there are no retroactive rebates. You must sign your contract no earlier than Aug. 30. The program will run through Dec. 31 or until the money is gone.
What type of units qualify? The program covers central air conditioners, air source heat pumps or geothermal heat pumps. The units must have SEER energy ratings equal to or greater than 16 for central split systems,14 for central package systems,15 for air source split systems and 14 for air source package systems. Qualifying ratings for geothermal systems, as well as additional standards, are on the website. The systems must be new but cannot be installed in new homes under construction.
Who is eligible: Applicants must be Florida household residents. Commercial properties are not eligible.
What's this about a duct inspection? Your duct work must be inspected and certified as leaking no more than 15 percent - after the new system is installed -- in order to qualify for a rebate. This inspection must be done by a Florida Class 1 rater, a Florida licensed mechanical contractor, or a recognized test and balance agent. Ask your contractor if he has someone on staff qualified. If not, you will need to hire someone. Either way, the consumer must pay for inspection, which could be several hundred dollars.
What if my duct work is terribly inefficient or can't be fixed? You need to determine the general condition of your duct work before you sign a contract, so you can decide if the rebate is worth it to you. Ask your contractor, in advance, to examine your duct work. Harris suggests you request the price of any needed repairs be included in your estimate.
How will I get my rebate? You must file an application form - now available on the website -- along with these four documents: your installation receipt; a copy of the mechanical building permit required by your city or county; a copy of your final duct leakage report; and the first page of the "manual j program" that shows how your unit was sized to fit your home. Rebates will given out on a first come, first served basis. Applications must be postmarked by Dec. 31.
Can I combine the state program with other rebates? Yes. The energy rating requirements for the state program are the same as for the federal energy tax credit, which is 30 percent of the price of a system with a maximum of $1,500. Consumers can file for both, as well as the FPL rebate and any manufacturer's rebates. Combine them all and you could save almost half on your new central air conditioning system, plus reduce your electric bills.
How will my rebate come? As with the appliance program, rebates will be given as an American Express prepaid card. The card can be exchanged for a check or an electronic funds transfer.
This information is from the Sun Sentinel.
Don't forget to contact Re/Max Platinum Realty at 941-929-9090 for your needs in Sarasota real estate, as well as your needs for Siesta Key real estate and Casey Key real estate.
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