If you’re in the market for a new heating and cooling system, you may be considering a geothermal heat pump as a good option for your home. Since the price of the system is higher than other types of HVAC equipment, homeowners want to know if there are geothermal tax credits currently available to help make the purchase more affordable. Grove Heating & Cooling explains if a federal geothermal tax credit exists for the installation of a geothermal HVAC system.
Geothermal tax credits have been around since 2005. You may have heard over the past few years that the benefit was being stepped down and due to be phased out by the end of 2023. Fortunately, geothermal tax credits have recently been extended for homeowners.
This past August, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 extended the residential energy-efficiency tax credits, including geothermal tax credits. Currently, there is a 30% federal tax credit for residential geothermal heat pumps installed by December 31, 2032, which can be applied retroactively to systems installed on or after January 1, 2022. The benefit will fall to 26% for qualifying heat pump installations performed in 2033, and lower to 24% for those installed in 2034. As of now, the geothermal tax credits are set to expire at the end of 2034.
Geothermal energy is one of the most efficient and environmentally friendly forms of energy available. This is why the US government offers geothermal tax credits to encourage homeowners to switch to a geothermal heating and cooling system. These credits can be applied to the cost of equipment and installation services.
In order to receive geothermal tax credits, there are a few eligibility requirements that must be met.
A geothermal heat pump is a type of HVAC system that uses the earth’s constant temperature to heat and cool your home. Geothermal heat pumps are among the most energy-efficient systems on the market, and they can save you up to 50% on your heating and cooling costs. However, the initial cost of installation can be prohibitive for some homeowners. The average geothermal heat pump system costs between $5,500 and $30,000 to install, although this price can vary depending on the size of your home and the type of system you choose.
Due to their high price, geothermal tax credits make geothermal heat pump systems more affordable for homeowners. By offering a tax credit to offset your tax burden, it reduces the upfront cost of geothermal system installation. In addition, the geothermal tax credits can be used in conjunction with other energy-efficiency tax credits, such as solar energy systems and small wind turbine tax credits, as well as those for energy-efficiency upgrades.
As a result, homeowners who install a geothermal heat pump system can potentially save thousands of dollars on their taxes. Check with your financial advisor to verify if your geothermal system installation will qualify you to receive geothermal tax credits and to determine the amount of your incentive.
If you’re in the market for a new HVAC system, geothermal is definitely something to consider. Geothermal systems are becoming more and more popular, thanks to their energy efficiency and the geothermal tax credits that can help homeowners save money on installation costs. If you’re interested in learning more about geothermal or want to schedule an estimate, be sure to call Grove Heating & Cooling.
Are you noticing that your skin is feeling a bit dry lately? Or maybe your throat has been sore more often than usual. If so, it might be time to consider investing in a humidifier for your home. In our most recent blog, Grove Heating & Cooling discusses a few signs you need a humidifier in your Maryland home. We’ll also explain how a whole house humidifier can help alleviate these symptoms and balance moisture for better indoor comfort.
As the weather gets colder, it’s important that you watch for signs you need a humidifier installed in your home. Take action if you notice any of these symptoms to avoid further discomfort and to create a more comfortable indoor environment.
Dry, itchy skin is a common problem during the colder winter months, when indoor air is typically drier than outdoor air. While there are several possible causes of dry itchy skin, one of the most common is simply exposure to dry indoor air. First, when the air is dry, it robs the skin of its natural moisture. This can lead to dry skin that causes flaking and irritation. Second, dry air can also irritate the skin’s protective barrier, making it more susceptible to irritation and inflammation. Finally, dry air can also aggravate conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
This can happen when homes and office buildings are not properly humidified, causing the air to evaporate moisture from the skin. As a result, people who spend a lot of time indoors during winter may be more likely to experience dry itchy skin.
Most of us have experienced the discomfort of a dry, scratchy throat at some point. Low humidity indoors is one of the leading causes of this condition, as dry air can strip away the protective mucus that lines the throat and nose. This can leave us vulnerable to infection and make it difficult to breathe. In addition, dry air can cause nosebleeds and congestion by drying out nasal passages.
Over time, wooden furniture and flooring can begin to warp and crack as a result of dry indoor air. This is because wood is a natural material that contains moisture. When the air is too dry, the wood will lose moisture and shrink. This can cause the wood to warp, as well as crack and splinter. In addition, dry air can also cause the finish on wood furniture and wood floors to fade or peel.
Dry indoor air is one of the leading causes of static electricity. When air is dry, it doesn’t have as much moisture to hold onto particles of dust and other materials. As a result, these particles become charged with electrical energy and are attracted to surfaces like walls, furniture and your body. When you touch one of these surfaces, the electrical charge is discharged and you feel a shock.
Dry air can be a problem in any season, but the signs you need a humidifier are especially noticeable in the winter. A whole house humidifier can help to combat dry air and the problems associated with it by increasing moisture levels in the air. Depending on the model you install, the humidifier will release steam into the air or add moisture to the air as it passes through the unit and HVAC system. This moisture will then be circulated throughout the house through the HVAC ducts. By maintaining healthy relative humidity levels, a whole house humidifier can help you enjoy a more comfortable and healthy home all winter long.
Installing a whole house humidifier will increase the humidity level in the entire house, making it more comfortable for everyone who lives there. In addition to improving your comfort, you won’t experience the bothersome signs you need a humidifier.
If you notice any of the signs you need a humidifier mentioned above, call Grove Heating & Cooling today to request a quote for the installation of a whole house humid
If you are experiencing boiler kettling, you might be wondering what’s causing the problem. Grove Heating & Cooling takes a look at some of the most common causes of boiler kettling and gives more details about the problems it can cause for your boiler heating system.
Boiler kettling is a condition that can occur when certain issues impact a home’s boiler. Kettling can cause the boiler to shake, rattle and make loud noises that sound like rumbling, popping, boiling and even whistling. Many people think a boiler kettling noise is similar to the noise a tea kettle makes when it begins to boil, hence the name.
Boiler kettling can lead to serious damage to the heating unit and its components. Kettling may cause boiler pipes to burst, lead to steam emissions from the unit and even create dangerous electrical hazards in the home. In some cases, boiler kettling can even cause the boiler to explode.
If you hear boiler kettling sounds and think your boiler may be kettling, you should contact a qualified technician for service. This is a serious condition that should be fixed as soon as possible to avoid damage to your boiler.
Now we’ll explain some of the common reasons behind a kettling boiler, which include mineral and sediment buildup, leaks, a faulty thermostat and boiler pump problems.
Kettling is most often caused by a buildup of scale or sediment in the boiler. This can happen over time as the boiler water evaporates and the minerals are left behind. When this happens, the boiler must work harder to heat the water, which causes it to boil. The boiler kettles when it is turned on because the water can’t flow through the sediment and scale. This buildup restricts water flow around the boiler’s heat exchanger, causing pressure to build up. When this occurs, the components can overheat, generate steam and produce the classic kettling noise.
Leaking boiler systems are another common cause of boiler kettling. When water leaks from the boiler system, it can cause a whistling noise. In addition, leaks can also result in a loss of pressure, which can also lead to boiler kettling.
Leaks can occur anywhere in the system, including piping connections near and to the boiler as well as the radiators and radiator pipes throughout your home. Leaks are most commonly the result of poor installation work, over-pressurization or corrosion in an older boiler.
Boiler kettling can be caused by a faulty thermostat. This is often an issue that impacts older boilers, as the thermostat can wear out over time and fail to communicate properly with the boiler.
When the boiler thermostat is not working correctly, the boiler can overheat and produce kettling sounds. In addition to kettling noise, another symptom you might notice is your boiler cuts out when you have the heat on. Boiler overheating can damage the boiler and cause it to leak, creating further problems and kettling.
Problems with the boiler pump can also result in boiler kettling. The boiler pump is responsible for circulating the boiler’s water and exchanging heat with the boiler’s heat exchanger. If the boiler pump fails, the boiler will not be able to circulate the water, causing the boiler to overheat and eventually shut down. In some cases, the boiler may also release steam, which can cause a loud kettling noise.
Boiler kettling can result from a variety of problems with your boiler, so it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of boiler kettling, please contact Grove Heating & Cooling for boiler repair in Maryland. We have the experience and expertise to get your boiler up and running again in no time.
Replacing your home’s water heater is a big project, but it’s one that can significantly improve your quality of life. How do you know when to replace water heater equipment? Grove Heating & Cooling explains a few signs to keep in mind regarding water heater services.
Is it time to replace your home’s water heater? There are a few signs you can look for to decide whether or not a replacement is necessary. Here are some of the most common signs that indicate when to replace water heater systems.
If you’re thinking of replacing your hot water heater, one of the things you’ll want to consider is the age of your current unit. Tank hot water heaters typically last 8 to 12 years, while tankless units often last 20 to 30 years. The age of your unit can be a good indicator of when it’s time for a replacement.
Obviously, a tank water heater unit that’s been in service for 8 to 12 years is getting close to the end of its lifespan, so it’s time to start shopping for a new one. On the other hand, a unit that’s only 5 or 6 years old probably doesn’t need to be replaced just yet if age is the only concern.
Have you ever jumped in the shower only to be met with a stream of cold water? Or have you tried to fill up the tub only to find that the water never gets hot? If so, then you may need to replace your hot water heater. Most homes have a tank-style water heater, which uses gas or electricity to heat water and then stores it in a tank until it’s needed. Over time, the heating element can break down, the tank can rust, and sediment can build up, all of which can decrease hot water production.
A water heater is an essential appliance in most homes, providing hot water for everything from cooking and cleaning to bathing and laundry. When a water heater starts to break down, it can be a major inconvenience. If your hot water heater needs frequent repairs, it’s probably best to replace your water heater. A new water heater will be more reliable and efficient and save you money in the long run. Plus, you’ll benefit from a new warranty term to protect your wallet in case certain repairs are required over the next few years.
A leaking water heater can certainly be a cause for concern. The good news is that not all leaks are created equal. If your water heater is leaking from a faulty pressure relief valve or loose connection, then hot water heater repair is likely an option. However, if the leak comes from cracks or corrosion in the tank itself, replacement is likely necessary as these leaks are signs of when to replace water heater units.
If your water heater is on its last legs, don’t wait for it to fail completely. Invest in a new one today and enjoy the many benefits it will bring. If you are noticing signs of a failing water heater, contact us for a quote on our new water heater installation services. Grove Heating & Cooling can help you find the perfect water heater replacement and get your home back up and running in no time.
While many of us take steps to protect ourselves from outdoor air pollution, what about the air inside our homes? Indoor air can be just as polluted – if not more so – than outdoor air. That’s where UV air purifiers come in. How do UV air purifiers work? Grove Heating & Cooling explains the details of these excellent indoor air quality devices.
A whole home UV light air purifier is a device that uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses in the air. The ultraviolet light emitted by the purifier is powerful enough to destroy the DNA of these microorganisms, making them unable to reproduce. As a result, a whole home UV air purifier can effectively reduce the amount of harmful airborne contaminants in your home. In addition, UV light technology can also help to eliminate odors and improve air quality.
Most whole home UV air purifiers are relatively small and can be easily installed alongside your furnace or air conditioner. When used properly, a whole home UV air purifier can provide you with clean, fresh-smelling air and peace of mind.
A UV air purifier works by exposing the air to UV light, which kills or damages the bacteria and viruses in the air. This type of purifier is effective at treating a variety of organic indoor air pollutants, including mold, mildew, and dust mites.
Not sure if your home could benefit from a UV air purifier? Now that you know how UV air purifiers work, here are a few signs that it might be time to invest in an air purifier.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it might be time to invest in a UV air purifier. These devices can improve your family’s health and make your home more comfortable to live in.
UV air purifiers are a great way to improve the quality of the air in your home. UV air purifiers remove harmful particles from the air, but they also kill bacteria and viruses. If you’re interested in installing a UV air purifier in your home, contact us for a quote. We would be happy to help you get started on improving the air quality in your home.
In the average home, the water heater will run for about three hours each day. Total run time can range from one to two hours for new tankless water heaters to five or more hours for older tank style water heaters. If you find your water heater constantly running, Grove Heating & Cooling explains some reasons why this happens and what needs to be done to stop your water heater from wasting energy. As HVAC experts, we help many homeowners with water heater services.
When you have a water heater constantly running, it could be due to one (or more) of the following causes.
Water heater leaks are frequently behind water heaters that run constantly. When a water heater leaks, the leak essentially drains the hot water tank, and the system loses hot water. If you find signs of a leak, call your plumber right away to schedule water heater repairs. Depending on the source of the leak, repairs may be possible or replacing the water heater entirely may be recommended.
Another common reason for a water heater that runs too frequently is that it is losing heat due to a lack of insulation. When the water heater isn’t properly insulated, a great deal of heat can be lost from the stored hot water inside. This forces the system to run more in order to maintain the desired temperature of your hot water.
Solving insulation issues can be done in a number of ways. You can purchase and install an insulation blanket that fits around the unit, which will help it better retain heat. Or, it may be time to upgrade if your hot water heater is an older model. Buying a new water heater can get you a system that has better insulation for increased energy savings.
Sediment buildup may be the reason you have a water heater constantly running. Over time, minerals in your water can settle at the bottom of the tank and form a sludge. This sludge can then block the heating element, preventing the water from heating up to the appropriate temperature. The water heater will run more often because it must work harder to keep water warm despite this blockage.
If you regularly drain the tank for maintenance, this issue can be solved by simply flushing your unit. However, you don’t want to do this task if you have never done so before and your water heater is older. At this point, that sediment may be blocking cracks in the lining, and flushing the tank can create irreversible leaks.
If your water heater is older, it’s likely that its functionality has diminished over time. The age of a water heater is one of the most common reasons for it to constantly run. At this point, repairs are unlikely to correct the issue and it is best to replace the system.
When you notice a water heater constantly running, don’t ignore this plumbing problem. Call Grove Heating & Cooling to schedule service with our licensed plumbing team.
It’s that time of year again – the weather here in Maryland is starting to get a little warmer. Homeowners are starting to wonder when they should turn on their air conditioners. Turning on your cooling system too early can lead to unnecessary energy consumption and spending, but you don’t want your home to feel uncomfortable! The pros of Grove Heating & Cooling share the best time to turn on AC equipment and other alternatives that will keep you cool and help you save money.
There’s no single answer to the best time to turn on an AC system. It depends on the climate, your home’s insulation, and even your daily routine. However, there are some general guidelines you can follow to find the right time for your household.
For most homeowners, the ideal time to turn on their air conditioner unit is when the temperature reaches 75 degrees Fahrenheit indoors. If you have particularly good insulation, you may be able to wait until outdoor temperatures are much higher before you need to switch on the cooling system. Keep in mind that turning on your AC will use energy and drive up your utility bills. So only turn it on when it’s really necessary.
There are a few instances when you might want to consider opening a window instead of using your air conditioner. If it’s a mild day and the breeze feels nice, crack a window open and let the fresh air circulate. You can also open windows if your home is particularly stuffy or you have pets inside. In general, opening windows is a great way to save on energy costs and keep your home cool without relying on mechanical cooling systems. If you do need to use the AC, just make sure windows are closed before turning on the system.
So, when is it better to use a fan instead of the air conditioner? The answer depends on the temperature and the humidity. If it’s hot and humid outside, using a fan will only make you feel more uncomfortable. In this case, you should turn on the air conditioner to cool down the room. If it’s cool or dry outside, using a fan can help you save money on your energy bill while keeping your living areas comfortable. Fans should only be used in rooms that are occupied, as their cooling effect is only beneficial when people are present to enjoy it – otherwise, running the fan just wastes energy.
There are pros and cons to using air conditioners, and the same goes for opening windows. The main advantage to using the air conditioner is that it can quickly and efficiently cool down a room. It’s also helpful in dehumidifying the air, which can be useful when it is humid.
AC units can be expensive to operate. Opening windows allows fresh air to circulate in a room, and it’s a free and natural way to cool down your home. However, opening windows does not have as much of an impact on cooling down a space as using an AC unit. Additionally, opening windows can let in pests or noise from outside. A fan is a good compromise between using the AC and opening windows. It’s affordable to operate and doesn’t impact the environment like an air conditioner does. Plus, it can help cool down a room quickly.
Get your air conditioner or heat pump tuned up before the days start to become hot. Typically, you’ll want to schedule this professional service in the spring to make sure your unit is cared for before it’s time to use it again. An air conditioning unit maintenance tune up will help ensure that it runs smoothly and efficiently, and will also help prevent any costly repairs down the line.
When it comes to determining the best time to turn on AC units, there’s no one definitive answer. It depends on outdoor temperature, the time of year, and your own personal preferences. However, following these general tips should help you make the most of your AC unit – and help you save money on your energy bills in the process.
Get ready for air conditioning season! Schedule your annual tune up with Grove Heating & Cooling before turning on your HVAC system this year. Contact us today to schedule a service call.
The thermostat is a critical component of any heating and cooling system, as it communicates the HVAC equipment’s operating instructions to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. While there’s a seemingly infinite number of device models on the market, there are only a few types of thermostats. The HVAC professionals of Grove Heating & Cooling explain the different types of thermostats and how they function so homeowners can easily understand the available options for controlling heating and cooling equipment in your Maryland home.
Differentiating the types of thermostats is done by looking at the way they operate. From there, thermostats are further categorized by the various functions and features they provide.
There are two different types of thermostats: line-voltage thermostats and low-voltage thermostats. Each of these thermostat types works with certain types of heating systems and they differ based on the voltage they use to operate.
The line-voltage thermostat gets its name from the fact that it runs on the same electrical circuit as the heating unit and uses the same circuit voltage, either 120 volts or 240 volts. This type of thermostat essentially acts as a switch that supplies the heater with power, as electrical current flows through the unit.
Amongst the different kinds of thermostats, more specific equipment categories exist. These thermostat categories offer different features and functions, providing users with options for varied control over temperature settings and convenience features. Categories of the different types of thermostats are:
With so many thermostat makes and models available, it can be difficult to determine the best choice for your home and heating or cooling system. When it’s time to upgrade your thermostat, work with Grove Heating & Cooling to explore your options. Contact us today to receive an estimate for thermostat installation in Maryland.
Dry air is a common winter problem that comes with colder temperatures. You know that high humidity levels can cause problems inside your Maryland home, but did you know that dry air is problematic, too? Grove Heating & Cooling shares some signs of dry air to be on the lookout for this season.
Unsure if your home’s air is too dry or not? Here are some dry air clues you can watch for:
Is touching your loved ones a shocking experience throughout the winter months? If the number of static shocks you suffer seems excessive, the excess static electricity is a sign your air is too dry. As we mentioned, cold air holds less moisture than warm air. With low humidity and moisture levels in the air, electrons aren’t able to travel as freely as they can when the air is warm and moist. Instead, electrons collect in one spot, which produces that big jolt you feel when you make contact with people and things in the home. If you’re bothered by static shocks in the winter, these jolts indicate that you might need to install a humidifier.
Chapped lips, dry skin, frequent nosebleeds, dry throat – these are all the results of dry air exposure to your body. Prolonged contact with dry air will dry out the body’s moisture, from skin and mucus membranes, which cause some bodily symptoms that can feel quite uncomfortable. Consider installing a whole house humidifier if these dry air issues are common amongst members of your household.
Some viruses are more easily spread when the air is dry. When air is humid, the virus particles are unable to stay in suspension for very long. In dry air, these pathogens can circulate much more freely. The more time they spend in the air, the more likely they are to travel from person to person and infect others. If viruses seem to spread like wildfire through your household when cold weather is present, increased illness can indicate that you need a humidifier.
How’s the woodwork around your house looking these days? Is it contracting, cracking, even warping? Are floorboards creaking and doors sticking? Dry air zaps the moisture held within wood materials, causing them to shrink and break. If wooden furniture, floors, doors, and cabinets are having problems this season, consider installing a humidifier.
When your home’s air is too dry, you need some extra help replenishing the moisture that’s naturally present during warmer times of the year. A whole home humidifier is a great tool that can increase relative indoor humidity levels across your home and alleviate the bothersome dry air symptoms you feel. Depending on the model, whole home humidifiers use a water panel to add moisture as air circulates through the heating system or create steam that is sent directly into your ducts to add moisture to heated air.
By raising the relative humidity levels of your indoor air, your body and your home are exposed to more moisture. Moisture in the air helps the body retain its own moisture – as well as helps it feel warmer! You can put away the lip balm and lotion and let your skin soak in the airborne moisture to alleviate symptoms. Plus, illnesses are less likely to spread so you’ll feel healthier, too. As the woodwork in your home is surrounded by properly humidified air, it can hold its shape and function properly, without squeaks, creaks, or cracks.
Now that you know the signs of dry air at home, it’s easy to figure out how to know if you need a humidifier. If you or your loved ones suffer any of the symptoms above, call Grove Heating & Cooling today and request a quote for whole home humidifier installation.
Furnaces are forced air heating systems, meaning they rely on a blower motor and fan to circulate heated air from the unit into the home through the duct system. Just like any other system component, it is possible for the blower motor to go bad and require a replacement blower motor. Grove Heating & Cooling shares bad furnace motor blower symptoms to watch for so you’ll know when to schedule repair service and have your blower replaced.
The furnace’s blower assembly is made up of a motor and fan that runs to circulate heated air from the furnace system, through the ductwork, and into your home’s various living areas. If your blower motor starts to wear out, you may notice some symptoms such as:
As mentioned, the blower’s job is to circulate air through the system. If the blower motor is going bad, it will struggle to operate the fan. The result will be weak airflow coming from the vents inside your living spaces. This airflow issue can be one of the main symptoms that indicate the component needs to be replaced.
Additionally, you may have a bad capacitor and require a replacement to power the motor, or the motor may simply be clogged and require a good cleaning from your HVAC technician. Duct leaks and disconnections may also be to blame for poor airflow and should also be checked out by a professional.
If the blower fails to operate, you won’t receive any heated air through the vents in your home. If the blower isn’t turning on at all, this is a symptom that can indicate a full replacement motor is necessary. Other problems that can cause this symptom are a faulty relay, bad thermostat, or problem with the unit’s fan control. Each of these issues should be diagnosed and repaired by an HVAC technician.
Your furnace should produce very little operating noise under normal conditions – a click or two upon startup and a steady hum as the furnace runs is typical. If you suddenly hear loud and strange sounds like squealing or grinding, these are symptoms of a bad furnace motor blower that can signal signs of motor bearing problems or a damaged belt in older belt-driven models.
Repairs may be possible or it may be time to replace the blower motor entirely. Rattling or knocking noises can indicate a part is damaged or broken in the blower that requires repair. All of these symptoms can be assessed and corrected by a professional.
If you notice a burning smell coming out of your air vents while the furnace runs, these smells are symptoms that tell you the furnace blower motor is overheating. Overheating of the blower motor can happen due to an accumulation of dirt and dust, which you may be able to clean yourself, if you feel comfortable doing so – or your technician can complete this task. There may be a part in the assembly that has failed and must be replaced, or the motor may just be wearing out and is due for replacement.
Energy bills that are suddenly higher than normal are a general sign that points to furnace issues, rather than bad blower motor symptoms specifically. A bad blower motor can cause the HVAC system to use more energy and drive up your heating bills, and is one possibility that should be investigated if you notice a spike in your winter utility expenses.
When you notice bad furnace motor blower issues over the winter, give Grove Heating & Cooling a call right away. Our skilled heating and air conditioning technicians can diagnose and correct your heating system issues, whether a part needs to be repaired or your entire blower motor needs to be replaced. Contact us to schedule HVAC unit services anytime.
2142 Priest Bridge Ct. Suite 6, Crofton, MD 21114
