Your local utility company wants to help you cut your electricity bill this summer. And it’s something you can take advantage of to get your air conditioning maintenance for free. Here are some of the utility-sponsored free or discounted A/C tune up programs in your area.
Why Do Utilities Offer Free HVAC Maintenance and Rebates?
Most public utility commissions require utilities to offer energy efficiency programs as part of the rate approval process. This helps reduce electricity usage, keeping demand under control and helping to stabilize the grid.
Texas AC Tune Up Programs
- CenterPoint Energy. CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric offers a free HVAC CoolSaver tune-up to electricity customers in the Houston area. Contact CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric at 866.688.2323 or go online to sign up for your free tune-up.
- AEP Texas. AEP Texas also offer free HVAC tune-ups through their AEP Texas Efficiency CoolSaver program. Sign up for the program through AEP-Central.
- Oncor. Oncor offers an HVAC tune-up to low income customers. Plus, regardless of income, consumers can qualify for rebates on new HVAC systems, incentives toward insulation, and discount LED bulbs. Visit their site Take A Load Off Texas for more information.
Connecticut HVAC Check-Up Programs
- United Illuminating. UI does not offer an AC check-up program. However, they do offer a discounted home energy audit that could save you $200-$250 on your annual energy bills. They also offer HVAC rebates. Visit the UI site or call 1-877-947-3873 (877-WISE-USE) for information.
- Eversource. Eversource Connecticut does not offer an AC check-up program. Like UI, they offer an discounted energy audit by calling 1-877-947-3873 (877-WISE-USE).
Ohio AC Tune Up Programs
- First Energy Companies. Homeowners served by The Illuminating Company, Ohio Edison, Toledo Edison may receive a rebate when they receive an HVAC tune-up from select companies. Contact your utility for information.
- AEP Ohio. AEP Ohio does not offer HVAC programs.
- Duke Energy. Duke Energy offers HVAC rebate programs through their Smart $aver program.
- AES Ohio. AES Ohio offers rebates on HVAC systems and programmable thermostats.
Pennsylvania AC Check-up Programs
- First Energy Companies. If you are in the MetEd, Penn Power, West Penn Power or Pennelec utilities, you can qualify for a $50 rebate on your HVAC tune-up every three years. See full qualifying details online.
- PECO. Peco does not offer HVAC tuneup programs but does have incentives for HVAC upgrades.
- PPL Electric. PPL does not offer an HVAC tune-up program, but offers rebates on HVAC upgrades.
If you don’t qualify for any of these programs, consider some DIY spring HVAC maintenance, or check with a local HVAC company for a tune up, usually under $150.
Maintaining your HVAC system helps keep your electricity bills low. Another way to keep your bill low? Check the rate you’re paying for electricity. The states listed above have deregulated electricity, and you can shop for electricity rates.
