Residents of the Texas capital now have several options to help reduce their carbon footprint without emptying their wallets. The first step to an energy efficient home is to have a professional perform an audit and figure out any energy wasting problems. Many City of Austin / Austin Energy rebates do not require an energy audit, but some do.
Incentives are also available in Austin for water saving home improvements such as high-efficiency toilets and washers.
City of Austin / Austin Energy Conservation Audit
On June 1, 2009, an ordinance passed by the Austin City Council took effect, requiring anyone selling an Austin home built before 1999 to purchase an energy audit. The sellers do not have to fix any problems found in the audit, but they are required to give a copy of the audit to the buyers before the purchase is finalized.
Auditors set their own prices, but the cost ranges from $200 to 300 USD for a typical single-family home of 1,800 square feet or smaller. To find a list of certified energy auditors, call Austin Energy (the utility company offering the rebates) at 1-800-452-8685.
According to Austin Energy, the auditor will:
- Inspect and measure the attic insulation
- Pressure test the duct system and assess its condition and adequacy
- Examine heating and cooling equipment
- Inspect weather stripping around exterior doors, plumbing penetrations beneath sinks, and air tightness of attic entries
- Identify and measure the amount of glass in windows that receive more than one hour of direct sunlight each day
Air Conditioner Rebates
Upgrading air conditioning units that are more than 10 years old can bring down energy consumption by 40 percent, according to Austin Energy. Depending on the type and size of the AC unit, homeowners can qualify for rebates anywhere from $50 - 480 USD. An energy audit is not required to receive an air conditioning unit rebate.
Rebates are given on a first-come, first-served basis to Austin Energy customers. Always check if rebate funds are still available before making a new purchase by calling the Customer Care Contact Center at (512) 974-7827.
To apply for an air conditioner rebate, an application must be filled out and sent to: City of Austin/Austin Energy—Air Conditioner Rebates, 721 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704-1194.
Rebates for Attic Insulation, Solar Screens, Caulking and Weatherstripping
Properly insulated homes can not only save energy, but equal to as much as 30 percent savings in heating and cooling costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Austin Energy customers can choose from several authorized participating companies to provide estimates. The estimates will be reviewed by Austin Energy, and homeowners will receive a rebate if:
- they hire a participating company
- the rebates total to more than $100
The company provides the customer with a rebate application and submits it to Austin Energy. Before receiving a rebate check, Austin Energy must inspect the work and give a final approval. Homeowners can expect their cash back in two to four weeks.
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