Home energy rebates are back and better than ever in 2025!
The home energy rebates that you know and love from TVA EnergyRight® and your local power company just keep getting better.
Geothermal heat pump rebate doubles to $3,000!
Replace your existing primary electric heat source with a geothermal heat pump and your TVA-vetted contractor will submit your $3,000 rebate claim to us for processing. You may also be eligible for a yearly $2,000 tax credit on your federal tax returns.
$500 limited-time-offer on attic insulation EXTENDED
Back by popular demand! Our attic insulation rebate was such a hit that we’re extending the offer. According to ENERGYSTAR.com you can lower your energy bill by up to 10% with home insulation and air sealing. Stay cozy and take us up on this LTO today.
Here’s how (most) of our home energy rebates work:
To help make sure the job’s done right, most TVA EnergyRight rebate-eligible upgrades must be completed by a member of the Quality Contractor Network. We’re helping you take the guesswork out of finding a vetted, licensed and insured contractor for your home efficiency upgrades.
Back in business for 2025!
Rebates on heating and air conditioning.
In addition to our new and improved geothermal heat pump rebate, we’re pleased to announce that rebates are still available on SEER2 mini splits, heat pumps and air conditioners. You can learn more about the benefits of higher SEER ratings right here. Or you can read up on our SEER FAQs!
$50 rebate on heating and air conditioning system tune-ups.
Our popular tune-up rebate is here for the taking! Schedule a tune-up for your heat pump or air conditioning system with a member of the Quality Contractor Network and get a check for $50!
Save up to $300 with our home envelope air sealing rebate.
A $300 home envelope air sealing rebate from TVA EnergyRight and your local power company can help make your home more comfortable — and more energy efficient.
Get your ducts in a row with a $300 duct sealing rebate.
Leaky ducts can reduce the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems by up to 20%. Improve efficiency and increase savings with a rebate on duct sealing.
Investing in home energy efficiency upgrades is a smart way to enhance comfort, reduce energy bills and contribute to a more sustainable future. Plus, it’s great for your home’s overall market value! Our rebates and financing options can help off-set the costs and keep you on-budget in 2025. Don’t forget to explore the federal Energy Efficiency Home Improvement Credit, for more ways to save!
Whether you’re sealing air leaks, upgrading insulation or investing in energy efficient appliances, investing in your home today is a great way to save in the future.
How do geothermal heat pumps work?
Everybody’s talking about them — especially now that we’re offering a $3,000 rebate on them — but what are geothermal heat pumps and how do they work? Let’s dig in! (Get it? No? Read on and you will, we promise!)
What’s a geothermal heat pump?
Even with seasonal temperature extremes — from summer scorchers to winter freezes — the ground remains at a relatively constant temperature year-round just a few feet below the Earth’s surface.1
A geothermal heat pump works by transferring heat to or from the ground surrounding your home and using it to heat and cool the inside of your home. The technology has been around for decades and can cut energy bills up to 50% compared to conventional fossil fuel systems2.
Here’s where the digging comes in: Geothermal heat pumps use a series of pipes or coils buried underground to work their magic. In the winter, the ground absorbs and stores heat from the sun, even if the surface air temperature is cold. (That’s why a gardener can yank a good carrot out of the ground well into the winter.)
During the winter months, a geothermal heat pump circulates a water-based solution through the ground loop, absorbing stored heat. Then, the heated solution is transferred to a heat exchanger, where it warms the air circulated through your home. Dig it?
The anatomy of a geothermal heat pump
A geothermal heat pump has three main components: an indoor unit, ground loop and a distribution system.3
What does the indoor unit do?
Think of this as the command center or the “brain” of your heat pump system. It contains the compressor, heat exchanger and system controls.
What does the ground loop system do?
If the indoor unit is the brains of the operation, then the ground loops are the veins and arteries. There are three different types of ground loop systems, and the geography of your property dictates which system will work best for your home.
In the summer, the process reverses and heat is extracted from your home and transferred to the cooler ground around it, using the same loop system. This not only cools your home but also lowers humidity levels, further enhancing comfort during the heat of the summer.
Horizontal loops are installed in shallow trenches and are often used for residential or small commercial properties.
Drilled deep into the ground, vertical loops are a good option for more heavily populated areas or for urban homes.
If you’re lucky enough to live near a pond or a lake, water loops use nearby bodies of water for heat exchange.
What does the distribution system do?
If you guessed that it’s the “heart” of the operation, then we’re on the right path. Once your indoor unit captures or releases heat, the distribution system pumps it throughout your home through a network or ducts or radiant floor heating. If you’re retrofitting your home, existing ductwork can usually be enlisted to do the job.
How are geothermal heat pumps installed?
Installing a geothermal heat pump is a complex process that requires professional expertise. To help make sure the job’s done right, all TVA EnergyRight rebate-eligible geothermal heat pumps must be installed by a member of the Quality Contractor Network.
Generally speaking, here’s how the process works:
Step 1: Site assessment
Your selected member of the Quality Contractor Network will evaluate your property to determine if it’s suitable for a geothermal system. They’ll consider soil conditions, land area and the proximity of your home to any underground water sources. This initial assessment helps determine which ground loop configuration is best for your system.
Step 2: Estimating and scope of work
Your contractor will provide you with a detailed estimate and a clear scope of work.
Step 3: Excavation and ground loop installation
For horizontal or vertical loops, trenches or wells are dug to install the pipes. This part of the process may take a few days, depending on the type of loop and property size.
Step 4: Indoor unit installation
This part of the process is pretty much like installing a conventional furnace and connecting ductwork.
Step 5: Connecting the system
Once the ground loop and heat pump are connected, the system is filled with a water-based solution that circulates through the loop to transfer heat to and from the ground and into your home.
Step 6: System testing
Your contractor will carefully check for any leaks, verify temperature settings, and explain how to operate and maintain the system.
How long do geothermal heat pumps last?
They’re more costly than a conventional heating or cooling system, but they’re made to last. They’re also up to 65% more efficient than a traditional unit and pay themselves back over time in energy savings — typically within 10 years.
With good routine maintenance, you can expect your geothermal heat pump’s indoor components to last approximately 25 years, rather than the 10- 15-year lifespan of a conventional system. Your ground loops should last for 50-plus years.4
To make geothermal heat pumps more affordable, we’re offering a $3,000 rebate on qualifying systems and federal tax credits of up to 30% of the installed cost may also be available.
Why are geothermal heat pumps such a big deal?
A recent analysis from Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) found that, coupled with building envelope improvements, installing geothermal heat pumps in approximately 70% of U.S. buildings could save as much as 593 terawatt-hours of electricity generation annually. It could help the U.S. avoid seven gigatons of carbon-equivalent emissions by 2050.
“To put that in context, 593 terawatt-hours is about 15% of the current annual electricity demand in the United States,” said Jonathan Ho, lead NREL researcher for the analysis.
The report went on to note that “Widespread geothermal heat pump installations could also save 24,500 miles of new grid transmission lines from needing to be built (36.7 TW-mi) — the equivalent of crossing the United States eight times — because of a reduced need for generation capacity, storage, and transmission compared to other energy pathways. This means geothermal heat pumps could provide benefits to all electricity consumers, even those who cannot install geothermal heat pumps themselves.”5
1Energy.gov, “Geothermal Heat Pumps.”
2Energy.gov “5 Things you Should Know About Geothermal Heat Pumps.”
3The Old House, “Geothermal Heat Pump: How It Works”
4Energy.gov “5 Things you Should Know About Geothermal Heat Pumps.”
5NREL.gov, “New Analysis Highlights Geothermal Heat Pumps as Key Opportunity in Switch to Clean Energy.”
3 soups from around the Valley region to keep your kitchen cozy!
If the weather outside is feeling frightful, it’s time to cook up something delightful! Here are three warming soups to keep your kitchen cozy and your belly warm.
Kentucky Burgoo
This hearty, favor-packed stew will get the engines running! This rich, slow-cooked stew has earned a spot in many hearts and kitchens. Known for its versatility, Kentucky Burgoo traditionally includes a blend of meats like beef, chicken, pork or even venison, squirrel or rabbit, if you’re feeling the need for authenticity.
The beauty of Burgoo lies in its “whatever’s on hand” approach — families often made it with seasonal vegetables like tomatoes, corn, carrots, potatoes and lima beans. Each ingredient is slowly simmered until the flavors meld into a thick, hearty stew with a slight kick of spice.
Get your burgoo on!
The one thing everyone agrees on: You can’t rush a good burgoo. Get the recipe here.
Tennessee Doodle Soup
The good folks of East Tennessee know what’s up with this comforting, cold-killing concoction. Made up of chicken drippings, vinegar, cayenne pepper and flour, the dish even has a festival in its honor — Bradford Tennessee’s Dood Soup Days. According to the Tasting Table, “Locals eat the soup with crackers, while others serve steaming bowls with biscuits fresh from the oven.”
It’s a good day for doodle soup.
No two doodles are the same, but for a little more guidance, get the “recipe” here.
Alabama Camp Stew
A smoky and satisfying meal, Alabama Camp Stew is a great cold-weather beater. Made with a base of smoked meat and a variety of vegetables, this stew is both smoky and sweet. Ingredients like tomatoes, lima beans, corn and potatoes are slow-cooked with the meat until tender. The stew’s slightly thick texture and rich flavor make it an ideal meal to enjoy around a campfire or your kitchen table.
Just don’t call it Brunswick stew.
This beloved Southern staple has its origins in outdoor cooking, hence the “Camp Stew.” We recommend using your electric stove, naturally! Get the recipe here.
5 key takeaways from “Unlock Energy Savings: How Employee Engagement Drives Success” webinar.
Sustainability and energy efficiency are no longer just buzzwords; they’re vital to successful business operations. Companies prioritizing these initiatives see significant improvements in their bottom line thanks to reduced operational costs and enhanced employee engagement.
In our recent webinar, “Unlock Energy Savings: How Top Companies Benefit from Employee Engagement,” industry experts Clay Hoover from TVA EnergyRight®, Jim Reese from Ashland Inc., and Kelley Whalen from Adtran shared their insights.
Here’s a preview of the five key takeaways you need to know.
1. With Strategic Energy Management, we’re all in.
2. When it comes to employee engagement, a little recognition goes a long way.
3. Boost your triple bottom line. People. Planet. Profit.
4. Community counts.
5. Together, we can do great things.
1. With Strategic Energy Management, we’re all in.
Strategic Energy Management engages everyone — from your senior leaders to your new hires—in the good work of saving energy, meeting sustainability goals and investing in people. Plus, our team is with you all the way.
Strategic Energy Management is a free two-year program designed to help industrial businesses cut energy costs and meet sustainability goals. Strategic Energy Managment is more than just a set of energy-saving tips—it’s a comprehensive, organization-wide strategy that embeds energy efficiency into the company’s culture.
Strategic Energy Management gives businesses the tools and expertise to create a tailored, long-term energy management strategy. It’s a win-win-win with innovative solutions that drive employee engagement, environmental stewardship and profitability.
By continuously improving energy performance, companies can reduce costs and gain a competitive edge in their industry. Kelley Whalen, Energy Manager at Adtran, says, “Joining Strategic Energy Management had the most significant impact on our sustained energy savings because it involved all employees. This combination has been a game-changer for us.”
Takeaway: With 24 months of free strategic coaching valued at $100k, no capital investments and a 15% savings on energy costs — Strategic Energy Management will help you transform your business.
2. When it comes to employee engagement, a little recognition goes a long way.
When employees are actively involved in energy-saving programs, companies not only experience better outcomes and save more, but they also boost morale and foster a stronger sense of purpose within the workplace. Energy efficiency is not only good for your bottom line; it’s great for your brand reputation. Sustainability initiatives build trust and authenticity with customers and employees.
Jim Reese, Senior Operations Manager, Ashland, Inc., says, “You have to ask yourself what’s in it for your employees? Then you’ll have the buy-in you need for a successful program.”
Reese recommends involving employees in energy-saving initiatives through recognition programs, incentives and active participation in energy teams.
“You can foster a culture of responsibility and innovation by involving employees as valuable contributors to your company’s sustainability goals,” adds Reese.
Companies like Ashland Inc. have seen successful by turning even the most reluctant employees into advocates for energy efficiency. This approach connects employees to a bigger purpose and also drives long-term savings. Plus, companies that invest in employee engagement are more likely to attract and retain top-notch talent.
Takeaway: A little recognition can make a difference. Building a culture of engagement is not necessarily about big incentives; it’s about consistent recognition and empowering employees to contribute ideas.
3. Boost your triple bottom line. People. Planet. Profit.
Strategic Energy Management is designed for industrial businesses. It gives you the tools to manage energy in a coordinated and strategic way across your organization. Enjoy increased profitability and create a competitive advantage, while reducing environmental
impact and supporting your community.
“Balancing the triple bottom line — people, planet and profit — when implementing energy-saving strategies is the key to success,” says Whalen. “This approach has led to significant energy savings at Adtran.”
Takeaway: Successful energy management requires aligning the interests of employees (people), environmental responsibility (planet), and financial performance (profit). By doing so, companies can create a sustainable and profitable business model. 
4. Community counts.
TVA EnergyRight for Business & Industry partners with local power companies, contractors and businesses to strengthen the communities we serve. We do that by ensuring that companies and industries in our communities have access to the energy information and resources they need to thrive.
To help support the places we live, we offer incentives for energy upgrades, revitalization programs and more. That’s why Strategic Energy Management participants can choose to “save it forward” by making an optional tax-deductible donation with a portion of their verified energy savings.
Reese explains,“ It’s not just about saving energy; it’s about making a long-term impact on the community.”
Our School Uplift supports public schools in the region by offering energy efficiency training and grants that reduce energy costs and improve the quality of the learning environment.
Takeaway: For more inspiring stories from the communities we serve, visit The Current, where you can see firsthand how energy efficiency makes a real difference in the lives of people in our communities.
5. Together, we can do great things.
Here are some other resources available to help businesses cut costs and save more energy.
Compressed Air Training
Air compressors are energy-intensive and costly. Our free online training sessions can help companies lower costs by 15-25% annually.
Incentives
In partnership with your local power company, we offer financial incentives on qualifying technologies to help businesses reach their energy goals.
Demand Response
Qualified Business & Industry customers can earn credits or incentives while making sure the Valley has the power it needs.
Takeaway: Your business could enjoy incentives for qualifying energy projects of up to $3 million per TVA fiscal year. Learn how at EnergyRight.com/incentives.
These insights remind us just how important employee engagement can be for a company’s bottom line. With an energy efficiency program, businesses can unlock significant energy savings, enhance employee satisfaction and contribute positively to the environment and community.
Ready to transform your business?
Explore how TVA EnergyRight® can help you achieve your energy goals. Contact us today.
Q&A with Clay Hoover, Jim Reese and Kelley Whalen: How employee engagement drives energy savings.
In our webinar, “Unlock Energy Savings: How Top Companies Benefit from Employee Engagement,” industry experts discuss innovative energy-saving programs and incentives available to businesses.
Here are some of the key insights that came out of this conversation with Clay Hoover, PE, Senior Program Manager, TVA EnergyRight® for Business and Industry, who recently sat down with Adtran’s Kelley Whalen and Ashland’s Jim Reese to discuss employee engagement.
Read on to learn more practical tips and real-world examples to help your business achieve its energy goals:
- The benefits of Strategic Energy Management
- Ideas for how to engage employees through recognition programs, incentives and active participation
- How Strategic Energy Management helps businesses secure capital for energy efficiency projects
- The community connection: reinvesting energy savings to support local initiatives
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. The views and opinions expressed throughout belong to the interviewees and do not necessarily reflect the official policy of the Tennessee Valley Authority.
Q: Clay, what is TVA EnergyRight’s Strategic Energy Management program, and how does it work?
A: Strategic Energy Management is a free two-year program that helps industrial businesses cut energy costs, boost profits and meet sustainability goals through expert-guided efficiency improvements. It gives you the tools needed to manage your energy in a coordinated way across your organization, helping your company increase profitability, create a competitive advantage, reduce environmental impact and support your community.
Q: Jim, what strategies have you used to engage your employees in energy efficiency?
A: Energy management can be a tough job, but it’s a whole lot easier when you build a team and get employees involved. Progress in energy efficiency is incremental — one step at a time. Over the years, we’ve tried different things, like employee incentive and recognition programs. When it comes to getting employees to support your program, you have to find your most stubborn naysayer and make that employee your ally. It comes down to this — what’s in it for your employees?
Q: Kelley, how does your team approach employee engagement?
A: At Adtran, we’ve had an energy program in place since 2005 that focused on employee awareness, but it was nothing like what we have now since joining the Strategic Energy Management program. Previously, we relied on infographics and word of mouth, and that was about it. However, once we became involved in Strategic Energy Management, we took our efforts to another level. We began using digital signage, corporate emails, banners and blogs to communicate more effectively and build credibility.
We also make sure to send out corporate emails that build confidence by sharing our successes. Sharing success is one of the most important things you can do to engage employees. People like to be part of a winning team. It resonates with employees when you have success, make improvements and demonstrate energy savings without making people uncomfortable.
Q: Kelley, what’s the most essential key to success for an energy-saving program?
A: To me, the triple bottom line — people, planet, profit — needs to be balanced. I refer to this as the sustainability zone, where all three aspects align to make sense. For instance, on a 90-degree day, I could use my control system to set everyone’s temperature to 80 degrees, which might be good for profit and the planet, but it wouldn’t be good for those working in those conditions. All three — people, planet, and profit—must align for a strategy to be effective. When we build credibility, we get the engagement and buy-in we need for the program to succeed.
Q: Jim, what about incentives for employees? Has that strategy worked for you?
A: We introduced an energy incentive program that worked pretty well. There was a fundraiser in this part of Western Kentucky, where they built a house and sold raffle tickets for $100 each, giving people a chance to win the house. We decided to tie this to our energy program. Anyone who submitted a viable energy-saving suggestion that could save at least $500 would receive a $100 gift card and a chance to win a house worth $300,000. Although nobody from our program won the house, it was an effective way to encourage participation.
Ultimately, we learned that the most important factor is not always significant incentives but small, incremental recognition. A simple pat on the back and a “thank you” can be very motivating.
We have a safety recognition program tied to environmental goals, including energy savings, which is integral to our sustainability goals. If an employee makes an energy-saving suggestion, they earn points. These points can accumulate toward extra vacation time, recognition items or even donations to charity. Last year, we donated over 1,500 meals to the community through this program.
Q: We saw the infographic you presented earlier, Kelley. Could you share a little bit about its origin? Did you build it yourself, or was it a collaborative effort with your energy team?
A: I was inspired by other infographics that I had seen at industry events, and I wanted to see if we could also use an infographic to convey our message. So, I involved our marketing team early on. I told them I wanted an infographic, and they helped create it.
Now, we update it yearly. It’s an easy way to convey our message. For example, in the top right corner of the infographic, you can see that we’ve saved 186 million kilowatts since 2005. In dollar terms, that’s about $14 million of energy costs that Adtran didn’t have to spend, all because we made small changes and implemented energy projects.
Q: Jim, what are some of the challenges you’ve encountered securing capital for energy efficiency projects, and how has Strategic Energy Management helped?
A: Securing capital for energy projects can be challenging, but Strategic Energy Management has helped us justify these projects by coupling energy savings with sustainability goals to make our case. For example, we had a project using Strategic Energy Management to show the environmental benefits of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which helped us secure the necessary funding. It’s all about finding the right opportunities and building a strong case for investment.
Q: Kelley, how do employees at Adtran contribute to identifying energy savings?
A: Initially, it was just me, but after joining Strategic Energy Management, we engaged an energy team of everyday employees who provided valuable input. For example, one team member suggested creating an internal energy connect page, which has become a central hub for our energy policy, infographic and live energy data. Another example is when we moved a lab to a new location, reducing the number of cabinets from 40 to 12, thanks to the energy team’s involvement. These contributions have been crucial to our success.
Q: Jim, how do you encourage employees to share their ideas for energy savings?
A: We have a cross-functional energy team that meets regularly, and we also conduct audits with employees. By involving employees directly in these audits, they often come up with valuable suggestions. For example, one operator came up with a simple solution to prevent hoses from freezing in the winter, which ended up saving a lot of energy. It’s about going to the employees and actively soliciting their ideas.
Q: Jim, how does Ashland incorporate community involvement into its energy-saving initiatives?
A: We believe in reinvesting our energy savings back into the community, particularly in local schools. We’ve partnered with TVA to provide educational opportunities for at-risk students, helping them pursue careers in STEM fields. For example, one student who attended our diversity celebration is now working with us after completing an engineering degree. It’s not just about saving energy; it’s about making a long-term impact on the community.
Q: Kelley, how does Adtran use its energy savings to support the community?
A: We’re part of the Save It Forward initiative through Strategic Energy Management, where we commit to donating a portion of our energy savings to a local school. In our first year, we saved 1.9 million kilowatts, translating to about $95,000; half of that will go toward the school. They’ll use the funds for an energy or air quality project to benefit students. We’re happy to give back and help improve the community.
Q: What has been the most impactful project for your energy savings, Kelley?
A: Joining Strategic Energy Management had the most significant impact because it involved all employees. We could combine all these efforts with our demand load shed project, which built our energy dashboard. The load shed project automatically skims the peak off our energy use without employees even noticing, and the energy dashboard allows everyone to see our live energy data. This combination has been a game-changer for us.
Let’s talk.
Do you want to learn more about how employee engagement can be a powerful tool in driving energy savings?
Contact us here to start the conversation.
Clay Hoover, PE, Senior Program Manager, TVA EnergyRight® for Business and Industry
Clay has been with TVA for more than 15 years. In his current role, he leads the design and operations of Strategic Energy Management programs for TVA’s commercial and industrial customers. Clay builds innovative programs that leverage energy efficiency to improve schools and communities in the Valley.
Jim Reese, Senior Operations Manager, Ashland, Inc.
Jim is the Senior Operations Manager with Ashland, Inc., in Calvert City, Kentucky. With more than 40 years of experience, Jim has a wealth of operations and energy management knowledge. He’s been with Ashland for nearly 28 years, where he started an energy program 25 years ago. Ashland is now a global chemicals company with a significant focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. Over the years, the company has saved nearly 12 trillion BTUs and over $42 million in energy costs and reduced CO2 emissions by 58,000 tons.
Kelley Whalen, Energy Manager, Adtran
Kelley is the Energy Manager for Adtran in Huntsville, Alabama. He’s a recognized leader in the field, having won multiple AEE awards, including International Energy Manager of the Year. Kelley brings more than 31 years of experience in energy management and a unique approach to engaging his employees in energy efficiency. Since 2005, he’s helped Adtran reduce energy consumption on campus by nearly 50%.
People, planet, profit: Boosting your bottom line through employee engagement.
By managing resources responsibly, you can reduce waste, boost efficiency and save money. Sustainability in business isn’t just about being a good neighbor to the planet—it’s also about making your business run better. While you’re streamlining your operations, you’re not just helping the environment; you’re also saving on energy costs..
Read on to discover the key ways our Strategic Energy Management (SEM) program can help your business gain a competitive advantage, plus:
- Potentially increase profitability by lowering energy costs.
- Achieve sustainability goals by lowering your carbon footprint.
- Improve employee engagement.
A program with purpose.
Brought to you by TVA EnergyRight® and your local power company, SEM is a free, two-year program helping industrial businesses cut energy costs, boost profits and meet sustainability goals through expert-guided efficiency improvements. Strategic Energy Management provides your business with tools to manage energy in a coordinated and strategic way across your organization — helping your company increase profitability, create a competitive advantage, reduce environmental impact and support your community.
Employee engagement is another significant benefit of sustainability initiatives like Strategic Energy Management. We’ve seen the impacts firsthand. When employees are actively involved in energy-saving programs, not only do companies experience better outcomes and save more, but they also boost morale and create a stronger sense of purpose within the workplace.
And that’s what Strategic Energy Management is all about — offering businesses innovative solutions that can drive employee engagement, environmental stewardship and profitability, creating a win-win-win for everyone.
“When we build credibility, we get the engagement and buy-in we need for the program to succeed,” says Kelley Whalen, the Energy Manager at Adtran and panelist in our webinar, “Unlock Energy Savings: How Employee Engagement Drives Success.”
The power of strategy: How does Strategic Energy Management work?
Think of Strategic Energy Management as your personal energy advisor—here to help you harness the power of strategy. At its core, Strategic Energy Management is more than just reducing energy bills; it’s about embedding energy efficiency into your company’s culture.
Instead of one-off projects or quick fixes, Strategic Energy Management focuses on creating a comprehensive, long-term strategy tailored to your business’s unique needs. This approach helps you uncover hidden inefficiencies, set meaningful goals and continuously improve your energy performance over time. Plus, TVA EnergyRight provides Strategic Energy Management consulting services valued at over $100k to qualifying companies at no cost.
Jim Reese, Senior Operations Manager for Ashland, Inc. and webinar panelist says, “Securing capital for energy projects can be challenging, but Strategic Energy Management has helped us justify these projects by coupling energy savings with sustainability goals to make our case.”
The benefits: More than just lower bills.
Sure, saving money on energy bills is a big win—but it’s just the beginning. By participating in Strategic Energy Management, you can also:
Improve operational efficiency.
Uncover inefficiencies and streamline your processes for better performance.
Boost and sustain employee engagement.
Getting your team involved in energy-saving initiatives improves morale and fosters a culture of sustainability.
Reduce environmental impacts.
Cutting down on energy waste makes a positive contribution to the environment, which also appeals to eco-conscious customers.
Strengthen your brand.
Energy efficiency is good for your bottom line and your brand reputation. Sustainability initiatives build trust and authenticity with customers and employees.
Ongoing support and expertise.
We’re all in this together. You’ll have access to expert guidance every step of the way. Our team of energy professionals will work closely with you to identify opportunities, set achievable goals and track your progress.
We can also help you save money and meet efficiency goals with energy incentives for businesses from TVA EnergyRight® and your local power company. These financial incentives on qualifying technologies can help businesses reach their energy goals.
Callout box:
FREE energy assessments for customers using one or more megawatts.
Link to energy assessments contact form.
Celebrate the wins — big and small.
One of the best parts of the Strategic Energy Management journey is celebrating the milestones along the way. Whether it’s a significant reduction in energy consumption or a small tweak that leads to unexpected savings, every win is worth celebrating. And we’re here to celebrate with you—because every step forward is a step toward a brighter, more sustainable future.
Ready to transform your business?
Take control of your energy use and unlock the benefits of energy savings with Strategic Energy Management. Together, we can create a more efficient, sustainable and profitable future for your business.
Let’s continue the conversation.
Connect with us and learn more about resources available to your business. Start the conversation here.
Email: Hoover, George Claiborne gchoover@tva.gov
8 reasons why seasonal residential HVAC maintenance is a good idea.
It seems like only yesterday we were sharing tips and suggestions for preventing an AC emergency. (Spoiler alert: spring AC tune-ups are also a great way to keep your system in peak cooling form). We know you’re enjoying a break from the heat but before you know it, it’s going to be time to break into the heating season.
It’s just as important to take care of your heating system as it is to take care of your AC. If it’s not already on your fall to-do list, now’s the time to perform — or schedule! — a routine residential HVAC maintenance service for your furnace or heat pump.
Need a nudge in the right direction? Here are 8 reasons why seasonal HVAC system tune-ups are a smart move.
#1 — Avoid costly emergency calls.
October is the perfect time to make sure your heating system is in tip-top shape before the first frost knocks on your door. Licensed and insured heating and cooling contractors not only clean your system, but they’ll also make sure it’s in good working order. Preventive care can help you avoid costly emergency calls in the heart of winter.
It’s worth noting that a professional tune-up typically includes cleaning evaporation and condenser coils, checking refrigerant levels, blower adjustments, plus an examination of electrical connections and wiring, thermostat calibration, part lubrication, safety inspection, burner assembly (for combustion systems) inspection, defrost cycle and reversing valve (for electric heat pumps) inspection, and system airflow and efficiency measurements.
Not sure who to call for your tune-up? Check out our Quality Contractor Network to search for TVA-vetted HVAC pros in your area.
#2 — Improve energy efficiency.
Heating systems that aren’t properly maintained can be less efficient and may be driving up your energy bills. During a routine residential HVAC maintenance call, technicians inspect, clean and optimize your system to make sure it’s running as efficiently as possible. It’s better for the environment and it’s better for your wallet.
#3 — Enhance indoor air quality.
Typically, fall maintenance includes checking and changing air filters. Clean air filters help your system run more efficiently and they can help keep dust, allergens and other particles from circulating around your home, leading to a healthier indoor environment.
Changing the air filter inside your home frequently is an easy way to help your system and improve indoor air quality. Plus, it’s easy to do it yourself! If you’re not sure how to do it, ask your contractor, they’ll be happy to show you what you need to do. For more tips on improving your indoor air quality, check out this article. Or, you can take a quick peek at our DIY videos for a quick how-to.
#4 — Extend the lifespan of your heating system.
Regular maintenance is a great opportunity to identify small concerns before they become major emergency problems. Tune-ups can minimize the likelihood of costly emergency service calls and help ensure that your system keeps you warm when you need it. When your system is running efficiently and smoothly, it’ll last longer, too.
#5 — Ensure safety.
Heating systems, especially older models, can pose health and safety risks. Fall residential HVAC maintenance is a great opportunity for your heating and cooling experts to look for leaks or check electrical connections, inspect heat exchangers and make sure that all safety mechanisms are working properly.
#6 — Take advantage of our rebates.
If you have an electric heat pump, you may be eligible for a $50 rebate from TVA EnergyRight and your local power company.
#7 — Peace of mind.
If your heating and cooling equipment is more than 10 years old, and your utility bills are going up, a professional inspection is the way to go. Get advice you can trust from a member of the Quality Contractor Network. If it is time to consider a new system, be sure to ask your contractor about our HVAC rebates! For more information on whether or not it’s time to replace your home’s HVAC system, check out this guide from ENERGY STAR.
#8 — Save money.
Heating system tune-ups are the perfect example of spending money to save more money. Avoiding emergency service calls, improving energy efficiency and prolonging the functional lifespan of your heating system are all great ways to save money. When you add a $50 rebate into the mix, the savings are even sweeter. Plus, the peace of mind is priceless.
Looking for more free and easy fixes to keep your home warmer for less? This blog has you covered.
Terms and conditions apply. All TVA EnergyRight rebate-eligible upgrades must be installed by an approved member of the Quality Contractor Network and meet TVA Standards effective on installation date. All measures, except window replacement, are eligible for program financing. Mini split 17 SEER2 or higher must replace the existing primary electric heat source or be installed in a newly finished area of the home (e.g., bonus room, addition, sunroom). Duct sealing, repair, insulation or replacement must be for existing or replacement HVAC systems. Window replacement must replace existing unit(s). Attic insulation upgrades eligible for the $500 rebate must be completed and the rebate submitted by your QCN member by September 30, 2025.
How electric vehicles can help keep electricity rates low and improve grid resiliency.
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for change.
The rapidly growing electric transportation industry is providing us with an extraordinary opportunity to change how we think about transportation, energy costs, decarbonization and the resiliency of our electric grid.
It’s well documented that electric vehicles produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions, have a lower overall carbon footprint and produce fewer local pollutants than gasoline-powered vehicles. EVs are easier to budget for, too, because electricity rates across the country are lower and more consistent than gas prices. And with fewer moving parts and fluids, routine maintenance costs are significantly lower for EV drivers.
Big-picture data shows that more and more Americans are buying EVs. The Energy Information Administration found that U.S. sales of hybrids, plug-in hybrids and battery-only electric vehicles (BEVs) reached their highest share of total light-duty vehicle (LDV) sales during the third and fourth quarters of 2023 at 17.9%. EV sales in the U.S. increased by 60% from 1 million in 2022 to 1.6 million in 2023.
Not only that, but we’re no longer living in a chocolate-and-vanilla EV world. Today’s drivers have more shapes, sizes and flavors of EVs to choose from than ever before. Automotive manufacturers added 20 new BEV models last year, bringing the BEV total to 70. It’s worth noting that half of the new BEV models were crossover vehicles, a hugely popular market segment that has more than doubled its share of total LDV sales since 2014.
How EVs help reduce electricity costs.
With zero tailpipe emissions, lower fueling costs and lower overall cost of ownership, electric vehicles enable drivers to save money while helping preserve the environment. While this is impressive, EVs can also drive electricity costs down and improve grid resiliency. And when we say “drive electricity costs down,” we’re talking about driving costs down for everyone — not just those who refuel with electricity rather than gasoline.
Every time a new EV owner plugs in and pays for electricity, local power companies may benefit from a new source of revenue. As the number of EVs on the road — and across the Valley region — increases, so does the power company’s net revenue. This new income is reinvested in the community; it not only helps keep electricity rates low and stable, but it can also be used to pay for infrastructure upgrades that improve reliability, support local job growth and fund programs for families with limited means or fixed-income customers.
EVs apply a noticeable downward pressure on rates across the board, and a recent study from Synapse Energy Economics confirms this, finding that EVs increased utility revenues more than they increased costs.
Adjusting for utility expenditures related to EV programs, the study’s authors estimate that between 2011 and 2021, EV drivers across the country contributed $2.44 billion more in revenues than associated costs. This translates to lower electricity rates for everyone, and these findings hold true across the entire country.
Easy ways to maximize downward pressure on electricity rates.
There are several easy ways EV drivers and utility providers can maximize downward pressure on electricity rates and help lower energy costs.
#1: Charge overnight when electricity demand is low.
The best time to charge an EV is when the demand for electricity is low. In the seven-state Valley region, charging overnight is generally the best time. There is one exception to that rule, though! During winter cold snaps, avoid charging during the very coldest hours of the day.
This simple behavioral change reduces the need for TVA to generate electricity from high-cost or carbon-intensive sources — or purchase expensive power generated outside of the region. Overnight charging is an easy way for EV drivers to do their part in lowering electricity costs for everyone.
#2: Scheduled charging with networked-connected, smart EV chargers.
Most drivers don’t care when their car charges as long as it’s ready to go when they are. Networked EV chargers enable owners to schedule their EV to charge overnight, at varied times, to spread the charging load around.
Networked chargers are especially handy in areas where power companies offer discounted time-of-use or off-peak rates. If your charger doesn’t have this capability, your car probably does! Whether or not off-peak rates apply, however, networked chargers can be programmed to charge at different times throughout the night, helping keep the grid stable and balanced while maximizing any available rate discounts.
Although off-peak, time-of-day rates are far from standardized across the country, they have the potential to benefit EV owners, their neighbors, entire communities and local power companies. When people charge EVs at times when they’re not adding huge marginal costs to the utility, the power company benefits from the revenue while its customers enjoy the savings.
When power companies incentivize off-peak charging with lower rates, they effectively keep generation and distribution costs down, help customers benefit from a cleaner energy mix and reduce carbon emissions.
#3: Managed charging with smart electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE).
Managed charging with smart EVSE presents yet another way for drivers and fleet managers to make sure that charging happens when costs are lower and the energy mix is cleaner. Not only does this lower an EV’s overall emissions, but once again, it also exerts significant downward pressure on electricity rates.
Smart EVSE units dynamically adjust the maximum power an EV will charge with. They can also automatically shift charging sessions to different times, depending on the status of the grid. This helps ensure that charging happens at optimal times. It also staggers the load, preventing accidental peaks.
Although we’re not there yet, let’s take this a step further and think about a future where we could send out a “green signal” — when renewable power is in abundance and must be used — and our cars, dryers, dishwashers and other energy-intensive devices could charge, dry, clean and cool for dramatically reduced rates.
#4: Reset the refueling mindset and right-size your charging station.
Another way to keep downward pressure on rates is simply resetting the fueling mindset to topping off, rather than filling up. In other words, drivers shouldn’t wait for the battery to dip below 20% before charging. A little bit of charging multiple times per week is far better than charging from empty to full once a week.
Topping off helps improve grid stability by minimizing energy peaks, and it’s better for the vehicle’s battery, too. Ideally, an EV’s battery level should stay between 20% and 80%. Plus, when you recharge a little at a time, the charging station can be less powerful (lower amperage) which makes installation easier and cheaper. Right-sizing your charging station saves drivers money while lessening the impact on the grid.
The news is good, and the energy forecast is bright.
The good news is that with some care and consideration, EV charging will meet customer demand and needs at low-power times of the day that are grid-friendly. This means cheaper fueling for the customer, lower power costs for their neighbors and reduced strain on the grid. It’s better for everyone, essentially. Historically, utilities have been exceptionally good at planning for and providing cheap, safe, reliable and clean electricity since the 1930s. It’s what they do.
That said, it’s a shift for utilities — big and small — because load growth has been flat for so long. It’s not anymore, and it’s not just because of changes in transportation. We’re seeing new load, building load, industrial load, data center load and more. Although it’s new to each of us, it’s not unexpected; our utilities have handled it before (think about how they rose to the challenge of electric air conditioning), and they can do it again. We just have to rise to the challenge and see the many opportunities for positive growth that EVs are affording us.
About EPRI
With a foundational mission to benefit society, EPRI delivers independent, objective thought leadership and industry expertise to help the energy sector identify issues, technology gaps, and broader needs that can be addressed through effective, collaborative research and development programs.
The TVA EnergyRight EV Team works diligently to make sure the people of the Tennessee Valley region have fact-based information about electric vehicles so they can decide how EVs fit into their lives. TVA is collaborating with state agencies, local power companies and other partners to pave the way for EV adoption in the region. This includes developing the Fast Charge Network, which will place public fast chargers at least every 50 miles along the interstates and major highways across TVA’s seven-state service area by 2026.
About our EV blogs: We know that big changes — like purchasing a vehicle that runs on electricity instead of gasoline — can lead to big questions. And that’s why we’re doing our best to provide expert, unbiased answers to your pressing EV questions. Each of our posts will include links to trusted external sources like automotive magazines, thought leaders, research-backed studies, government agencies and more. Feel free to click around!
DISCLAIMER: No TVA endorsement of any specific vehicle, car manufacturer, electric charger or other equipment is intended or implied. This site’s content (including, without limitation, references and links to third-party information) is based on information provided at the time of publishing, and TVA makes no warranty therein.
EV tax credits, policy perks and more.
Q&A with Ingrid Malmgren, policy director for Plug In America.
Electric vehicle (EV) tax credits and rebates help make buying an EV more accessible. However, understanding which vehicles qualify and how the credits work can be confusing! To help make sense of the changing landscape — and make it easier for you to enjoy a $7,500 tax credit —, we chatted with Ingrid Malmgren, one of the industry’s leading policy experts and an early EV adopter.
Malmgren, policy director for Plug In America, has been riding the EV wagon for nearly a decade, enjoying transportation that produces zero tailpipe emissions. She leased her first EV in 2016 and has been enjoying gasoline-free rides ever since.
During our illuminating conversation, she shared the joys of driving a “zippy” electric vehicle, the satisfaction of living a zero tailpipe emissions lifestyle, and the exciting possibilities that EVs could provide for energy security and grid stability.
And yes, she also shared some helpful resources for understanding the ins and outs of EV rebates! Read on for an EV tax credit checklist and for Malmgren’s take on:
- How EV policy changes are paving the way for job growth, EV adoption, and more affordable electric car options.
- How EV tax credits work and how you can determine which cars are eligible.
- How the EV tax credit applies to purchasing or leasing.
- How the 30C Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit can help offset the cost of home charger installation
- How EV policy can change over time.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. The views and opinions expressed throughout belong to the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the official policy of Plug In America or Tennessee Valley Authority. Consult a licensed tax professional for advice on your particular circumstances.
TVA EnergyRight: So what got you so hooked on EVs?
Malmgren: My first project was a vehicle-to-grid road map. And I worked with a team for NYSERDA.1 I was just fascinated at what an incredible role these mobile energy storage devices, these batteries on wheels that are EVs, could play in fitting into the grid. I remember going to visit our transmission provider2 and it looked like Star Trek in there!
That, and it was just so liberating to be zooming around in one. EVs are so zippy and fun to drive. And to just not have to worry about gas and fuel.3 I never even look at the mileage unless I’m road-tripping – it just feels infinite by comparison. Being able to zoom around in the silence and not having to worry about tailpipe emissions and gasoline is liberating.
TVA EnergyRight: What would you want folks to know about EVs?
Malmgren: Oh, boy. First of all, drive an EV, try it! April was Drive Electric Earth Month and Drive Electric Week is in the fall. There are events all over the country, including Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Virginia and the Carolinas. You can drive EVs and talk to people who own EVs and hear about their experiences in your community. I think once people drive EVs they’ll see that they’re so quiet, they feel so solid and they’re so powerful. And they require so little maintenance. They cost a lot less to operate and maintain. That’s another big, important thing.
TVA EnergyRight: Historically, tax credits or rebates helped people make more energy efficient choices. Can you break today’s EV credits down for our readers?
Malmgren: So the first thing I would say about the federal EV tax credits is that they can seem complicated! Kelly Blue Book has a resource specifically for EVs by state.
In broad strokes, there are a number of different criteria that the buyer and the vehicle would have to meet. And those criteria are going to change over the life of these EV tax credits, through 2032. Things like your income, the amount of critical minerals in the battery, the components in the battery, the MSRP of the vehicle, and where the battery or vehicle is assembled.4 It’s really hard to track that at the consumer level.
I encourage buyers to check out the fueleconomy.gov website. It has been developed specifically to help people understand which vehicles are eligible. Otherwise, it would be really challenging for consumers to navigate this.
As of right now, in 2024, you can get the incentive right up front. So as you’re looking at your vehicle price, you say, OK, this new car is $44,000. I can get $7,500 off up front, reducing the total cost of the car.
Leases go through the Commercial Clean Vehicle tax credit, which does not have a lot of the same criteria that the regular tax credits have. So if you’re interested in an electric vehicle that is not on the fueleconomy.gov list or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that’s not on those lists on fueleconomy.gov, there may be the option to lease that vehicle and the OEM would pass that tax credit on to you through the lease.
TVA EnergyRight: That’s a great resource and great information! Thank you for sharing. Do you have any other insights or information about the possible $4,000 tax credit for used cars?
Malmgren: About two-thirds of people typically buy used cars. We are a long-term family of used car buyers! Somewhere along the line, we read a Consumer Reports5 article that said if you buy a two-year-old car, you get the best bang for your buck because you have the most life left, but you also save a lot of money. The fueleconomy.gov website has a tool for used EVs too.
We also put together a shopping list for consumers, because rebates are so confusing!6 It’s really distilled down and it covers what consumers need to know. The other big thing about the federal tax credits is that you have to purchase from a dealer or a dealership. Some dealerships are facilitating private party sales and passing on the tax credit for used EVs that costs less than $25,000. But you need to make sure that the dealership is registered with the IRS Energy Credits Online.7
Download our EV tax credit checklist
TVA EnergyRight: One of the lesser-publicized aspects of EV tax credits is the 30C Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit. Can you tell us more about this credit and the implications it could have on the EV charging infrastructure and how this credit can help people purchase and install a charging station for their EV?
Malmgren: We’re still waiting on some guidance from the IRS on 30C, but they did recently come out with guidance about where the stations must be located. It’s very geographically dependent. If you’re interested in installing a home charger, you can look up your address8 to find out whether you’re eligible.
You could get up to 30% or $1,000 for your charging station at home. For commercial entities, they can get up to $100,000 for public or business chargers. One of the other things about all the tax credits is that they are either transferable or they are direct pay. This means that you do not have to have a tax liability to qualify. That’s huge! It’s an important piece because if you’re retired, you’re on Social Security, you have a fixed income, you don’t pay much in income taxes, but you want to get an EV, you can get the full amount of the federal tax credit, even if you don’t pay that much in taxes over the course of the year.
This also means that if you’re a municipality, a municipal utility, a local nonprofit, a charity, or a church, you can take advantage of the tax credit to install chargers even if you don’t pay taxes.
TVA EnergyRight: What are some pieces of legislation or policy that you’ve worked on that you have a sense of pride of accomplishment in?
Malmgren: I think the tax credits are a big one. We’ve been advocating for them and continue to advocate for them to be as user-friendly as possible and work hard to advocate for them to be as broadly applicable as possible, particularly for people who might not otherwise be able to afford to get into an electric vehicle. Gas prices are so volatile. They’re just all over the place. Being able to drive an electric vehicle as your daily driver can save you a lot of money on fuel. You can also save a lot of money on repairs and maintenance. Having an EV can be a mechanism to help elevate folks economically. We’ve been advocating hard for tax credits that don’t require people to have a tax liability and to be as easy to use as possible.
TVA EnergyRight: What’s on your EV policy wish list?
Malmgren: If we could keep making the grid cleaner and cleaner, that would be great! One of the big strengths of EVs is that they can charge when the sun is shining, the wind is blowing, or at night. They’re ideal for energy arbitrage. There are times when it’s good to get rid of electricity because there’s too much on the system. Imagine if there were times when it’s actually less expensive to give the power away than it is to try to deal with the excess power on the grid. Having incentives like that would just be phenomenal.
Time-of-use rates9 have a great deal of potential. But even those aren’t being rolled out as widely as one would think. For example, I am in a rural electric co-op territory10 and there aren’t any time-of-use rates available for EV charging. I charge at night typically, but there’s no incentive to do so.
TVA EnergyRight: Good point. Yes, home electricity rates vary by local utility. We discussed this a bit in “Charging your EV at home: Fueling where you live.” Here in the Valley region, for example, Middle Tennessee Electric provides discounted energy overnight to charge your EV. We encourage residents to check with their local power company rate options.
Malmgren: Definitely! And then the third piece is simultaneous to these other two, really working to push for a circular battery economy.
EV batteries are so valuable after they leave an EV that they tend to be used for the grid or some other purpose.11 Having these circular economy provisions in place and updating mining laws at the same time would just really be the icing on the cake to make sure that we have a really clean transportation future that’s also ethical and responsible.
What policy director doesn’t want to come up with their dream scenario? It’s great to be asked that, thank you!
¹ New York State Energy Research & Development Authority. You can read the 2015 report, which analyzes the challenges and opportunities that EVs pose to the electric grid, here.
² “Transmission provider” is fancy industry-speak for your local power company’s control room.
³ Fun fact: Malmgren’s first EV had a range of 83 miles. “I did get a little range anxiety from time to time,” she noted with a laugh. “Especially in the winters in Vermont. I have since moved on to a EV with a longer range!”
⁴ Credit-eligible EVs must be assembled in North America.
⁵ Malgrem could have been referencing this article from 2019, “What’s So Great About Used Cars?” but this article from 2024 also tackles the new vs. used question: Should You Buy a New, Certified Pre-Owned, or Used Car?
⁶ The “we” Malmgren is referencing here is Plug In America. You can find their “Federal Tax Credit Checklist for EV Shoppers” here.
⁷ Dealerships can register their business using the IRS’s Energy Credits Online portal.
⁸ You can determine whether or not your home or business is eligible for the 30C tax credit using the U.S. Department of Energy’s 30C Tax Credit Eligibility Locator.
⁹ Time-of-use (TOU) or Time-of-day (TOD) rates are used to incentivize customers to use energy when the cost of generating electricity is less expensive and to disincentivize energy consumption when the cost of generating electricity is high. One great example of TOU rates is Middle Tennessee Electric’s Nite Flex rate which discounts electricity at night, potentially saving EV drivers even more on charging. Check with your local power company to see if it offers time-of-use rates.
¹⁰ Malmgren lives in New England.
¹¹ Used EV batteries can provide backup power and power charging stations. Some companies are upcycling EV batteries to store power at solar or wind farms.
About Plug-in America: Plug In America is a nonprofit organization with a mission to accelerate the transition to affordable and accessible plug-in vehicles and charging through education, advocacy and research. The opinions and recommendations expressed in this interview belong to Ingrid Malmgren and may not express the views and opinions of her employer or TVA.
About our EV blogs: We know that big changes – like purchasing a vehicle that runs on electricity instead of gasoline – can lead to big questions. And that’s why we’re doing our best to provide expert, unbiased answers to your pressing EV questions. Each of our posts will include links to trusted external sources like automotive magazines, thought leaders, research-backed studies, government agencies and more. Feel free to click around!
DISCLAIMER: No Tennessee Valley Authority endorsement of any specific vehicle, car manufacturer, electric charger or other equipment is intended or implied. This site’s content (including, without limitation, references and links to third-party information) is based on information provided at the time of publishing, and TVA makes no warranty therein.
7 reasons why HVAC tune-ups are a smart call
Schedule some TLC for your heat pump today
Preventive HVAC maintenance isn’t the most glamorous of tasks. We get it. And we know that looking up a trusted contractor from the Quality Contractor Network won’t set your pulse a-thumping like booking a rental on the beach, finding the perfect thrift-store treasure or nabbing tix to that hot concert everyone’s buzzing about, but it can help keep you nice and cozy once winter sets in.
Now’s the perfect time to get on your contractor’s calendar too, because once winter rolls around, they’ll be plenty busy taking emergency calls from people who weren’t as diligent about maintenance as you are!
Need a little more than “calendars” and “cozy” to convince you to take the HVAC tune-up plunge? Here it goes:
1. Get a $50 rebate from TVA EnergyRight.
We’re taking the sting out of tune-up costs with a $50 rebate on your electric HVAC system tune-up. Don’t have electric heat? Make a note to schedule your AC tune-up in the spring.
2. Extend the life of your HVAC system.
If recent weather trends continue, odds are pretty good that you’ll soon be turning your heat and AC on between now and November, and that can be tough on your heating and cooling system. Regularly scheduled tune-ups help keep your unit in tip-top working condition as long as mechanically possible. And the longer your system lasts, the happier and more comfortable you’ll be.
According to ENERGY STAR, a typical maintenance checkup should include:
- Checking thermostat settings.
- Tightening all electrical connections.
- Lubricating all moving parts.
- Checking and inspecting the condensate drain.
- Checking system controls.
- Cleaning blower components and the evaporator and condenser coils.
- Verifying refrigerant level.
3. Improve energy efficiency.
Routine HVAC tune-ups also help maintain your unit’s energy efficiency. When your heating and cooling system is running at peak efficiency, you’ll keep your utility bills down, help out the environment and make sure that everyone in your house is as cool (or hot) as they think they are.
Get a free $20 gift card (for assessments completed on or before December 31, 202) and energy-saving kit. Take our free DIY Home Energy Assessment to find out where your home is using (and losing) energy.
4. Honor thy warranty.
With any luck, your HVAC unit came with a warranty. Did you know that some manufacturers may require you to maintain the unit? Fortunately, regular tune-ups conducted by a TVA-vetted member of the Quality Contractor Network take care of that pesky requirement while minimizing the likelihood of experiencing catastrophic equipment failure. A win-win, if we do say so ourselves.
5. Enjoy consistent warmth.
A heating unit that’s not functioning correctly is going to have a tough time keeping your home consistently warm. If the temperature varies from room to room, there may be a reason — and a trusted contractor can get to the root of the problem during routine maintenance, before it becomes an emergency. (You can also learn more about air sealing and duct maintenance here.)
6. Minimize emergency repairs.
Speaking of emergencies, it may help if you think of an HVAC tune-up like a routine cleaning at the dentist. That preventive cleaning is going to be a lot less expensive (and less painful) than an emergency visit.
If your AC is on the fritz, be sure to check out this article!
7. Save money with preventive AC maintenance.
Nearly all of the reasons to schedule your fall HVAC checkup boil down to this: It can save you money in the form of:
- Lower electricity bills
- Longer-lasting HVAC equipment
- Fewer emergency repairs
We said it last month when we covered air sealing, but we’ll say it again this month: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially if it means you can avoid replacing your HVAC system!
Hit the “easy” button and find a licensed and insured contractor by using our Quality Contractor Network. All members are vetted by TVA and trained to meet our project quality standards.
Search the Quality Contractor Network for free to find TVA-vetted contractors near you.
