The Benefits of HVAC Upgrades for a Modular Home

Modular homes are quietly revolutionizing the construction industry. Many of these homes are designed with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind. However, older homes can benefit from modular home HVAC upgrades to boost efficiency and save money on utility costs.

Modular homes offer a faster, more eco-friendly, and more affordable construction process. Like mobile homes, modular homes are primarily pre-built in a controlled factory setting. Manufactured and mobile homes are typically built with a permanently attached chassis. Modular homes are shipped in modules and assembled onsite to meet the same local and state building codes that site-built homes must meet.

Are you among the millions of Americans who live in modular or mobile homes? As a modular homeowner in New York State, you should take time to learn about the energy efficient improvements that are available to you, particularly those that are available free or at low cost through grants and rebates sponsored by the State of New York.

Mobile Home Furnaces and Air Conditioners

Making upgrades to modular or mobile home energy systems can have significant benefits. First, it’s helpful to understand how modular home air conditioning and heating systems may differ from those installed in traditional homes. For example, many are built with ductwork in place, making it easy to connect to a centralized system. Modern modular construction homes are designed to be as energy efficient as possible, while older homes may require upgrades to achieve energy efficiency and cost-effective heating and cooling.

The options available will depend on your home’s configuration and whether it is a mobile or modular home. Mobile homes typically have split or forced air package systems. Packaged systems often include a heat pump and an air conditioning unit, while split systems have indoor and outdoor components. Modular homes may have more options, including traditional central air conditioning and heating as well as ductless mini splits.

To get the most out of the changes, it’s important to keep several factors in mind when making mobile or modular home HVAC upgrades.

Your Current System

Understanding how your home’s heating system currently works can help guide your choices moving forward. Note what fuel source it uses, the type of system you have, and any comfort issues you experience. For example, do you notice one room is hotter or cooler than others, or do you experience drafts and cold spots throughout your home?

Size and BTU Requirements

If you have a mobile home, you should consult your home’s specifications regarding BTU requirements and tonnage. For modular homes, sizing is equally important to ensure you choose units with the power to properly heat and cool your space.

Replace Your Outdated HVAC Equipment

Mobile and modular homes are built to last. Most HVAC equipment, however, lasts only 15 to 25 years. With the advancements made in technology, if you have an HVAC system that’s 10 years old or older, you may benefit from replacing it.

Heating and cooling account for approximately 40% or more of your home’s energy use. Outdated equipment can waste energy by inefficiently conditioning your indoor air. Upgrading could save you hundreds of dollars on energy use every year. It can also allow you to live more comfortably.

Some of the signs that it’s time to replace your mobile or modular home’s air conditioning and heating system include:

• Increasing energy bills
• Uneven heating and cooling
• Needing to make frequent repairs

Energy Efficient Heating and Cooling

The time to make mobile and modular home HVAC upgrades has never been better. Federal tax incentives can help offset the investment. Additionally, New York State offers numerous programs that make energy efficient heating and cooling more accessible to all New Yorkers.

EmPower New York

With EmPower New York, a program offered in conjunction with New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), homeowners and renters can get energy-related upgrades for little to no cost. Income-eligible participants can qualify for upgrades to HVAC systems, insulation, appliances, and more. It all begins with an energy assessment to determine how your home is heated and cooled and how it uses energy.

Certified technicians will determine which upgrades will work best and make appropriate recommendations. Standard has already helped thousands of homeowners and renters throughout the Mohawk Valley and Capital Region. Additionally, if you don’t qualify for the traditional EmPower New York Program, you may meet the requirements for EmPower PLUS. This program pays as much as half of all upgrade costs, up to $5,000.

State Approved Modular Home Heating and Cooling

Standard can walk you through all available options for state-approved upgrades for your mobile or modular home. For example, with Clean Heating Upgrades, you can leverage the eco-friendly, energy efficient power of heat pumps. This affordable technology transfers heat from a mechanical loop, the air, or the ground to heat your home in winter. It will also remove heat from your home during summer, allowing you to enjoy cool comfort.

Qualify for Free Energy Upgrades

Another excellent program to consider is the NYSERDA Comfort Home Program. This makes upgrading insulation and air sealing your mobile or modular home more affordable. You can save up to $4,000 on upgrading insulation, replacing windows, and sealing air leaks.

Connect with Standard Today to Learn More

Standard has always been in the business of helping Upstate New Yorkers save money while achieving optimal energy efficiency and comfort. Our certified technicians can assess your home’s current energy use, examine the HVAC system, and make recommendations based on your unique needs. We can also walk you through the process of applying for home and commercial tax credits and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to get started.