Buyer's Information Guide to Home Heating and Cooling Systems: Make Your Home Even More Efficient

Your home's heating and cooling system might not be running as efficiently as it could be. Since PG&E wants its customers to make smart choices about managing energy costs, here is a short buyer’s information guide with additional energy saving solutions. While there is no rebate offered on these items by PG&E at this time, they can help you save energy and money for your home.

Central Air Conditioning: Get the Most Out of Your Cooling System

When it's time to purchase a new Central Air Conditioning System for your home, look for a new ENERGY STAR^® qualified air conditioner. These units can use up to 14% less energy than standard models and can save you money throughout their lifetime.

Programmable Thermostat: Programmable Temperatures Mean Lower Bills

A Programmable Thermostat can be set to automatically adjust your home's temperature. An ENERGY STAR^®-qualified, programmable thermostat can save you money when you program it to automatically adjust to higher temperatures in the summer and lower temperatures during winter.

Energy-Efficient Heat Pump: Effective Winter and Summer

An Energy Efficient Electric Heat Pump circulates the air evenly throughout your house. Whether the outside temperature is hot or cold, these units can help moderate your home's temperature to keep you comfortable.

Energy-Efficient Ducted Evaporative Cooler (EEDEC): Cooling on a Budget

An EEDEC may be a viable option and an economical alternative to a conventional central air conditioner in areas with low humidity. Here are some important facts about Energy-Efficient Ducted Evaporative Cooler (PDF, 118 KB) that can help you choose the type of unit to install in your home.

Buyer's Tips

Consult a few contractors, and get a few proposals for different energy-efficient solutions. Call the Contractors State License Board at 1-800-321-CSLB or visit www.cslb.ca.gov to confirm your contractor’s license status or for a licensed contractor in your area.

Maintenance Check-up: Keep Your New System Running at Peak Performance

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) equipment can be an expensive upgrade to your home. Make sure you keep your system maintained to maximize your investment. Here are a few maintenance tips.

Have your system serviced once a year by a licensed C-20 contractor. See the California Contractors State License Board to select a contractor in your area.
Have your ducts tested anytime you install an HVAC product and during your annual service. See Why is Duct Testing Important (PDF, 1.2 MB).
Make sure the basic annual service includes changing filters, cleaning the outdoor units and refrigerant check-up.