What is the PECO Smart Ideas Program?
Offered exclusively to PECO customers, the PECO Smart Ideas program provides a full suite of energy efficiency rebates, incentives and other no- and low-cost improvement ideas so that customers can save money and use less energy. PECO Smart Ideas started March 1, 2010.
Why is PECO offering the Smart Ideas Program?
The PECO Energy Efficiency & Conservation Plan was filed with the PUC in July 2009 as a result of Act 129 being passed by the Pennsylvania Legislature and signed by Governor Rendell the year before. Act 129 requires utilities across Pennsylvania to develop programs to help customers reduce energy use by 1% by May 31, 2011 and 3% by May 31, 2013; and reduce energy demand during the 100 highest use hours of the year by 4.5% by May 31, 2013.
How long will the PECO Smart Ideas program be available?
Programs are currently available through May 31, 2013. However, rebates and program rules are subject to change at any time, so act today. The suite of energy efficiency and conservation programs was developed by PECO and approved by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) in support of Pennsylvania Act 129. Rules and rebates may change and funds are limited and subject to availability. For more information on how you can get started, visit www.peco.com/SmartIdeas.
How can I take advantage of these programs?
Details about our residential and business programs can be found at www.peco.com/SmartIdeas, or by calling 1-888-5-PECO-SAVE (1-888-573-2672). Customers can download necessary rebate applications or sign up for other programs.
How can I get started saving?
Visit www.peco.com/SmartIdeas and view our Tips & Guides to save energy and money. You’ll find no-cost and low-cost tips, seasonal energy saving ideas and a complete home energy library.
Take the PECO Smart Home E-Audit. This free online tool gives you a personalized snapshot of your energy use and shows you how you can start saving energy and money. And, with our new E-Tracker, you can set your own energy-saving goals and see quarterly reports of your progress. All you need is your 10-digit PECO account number to activate the tool.
At www.peco.com/SmartIdeas, you’ll also find Tools & Calculators to help you pinpoint areas in your home that could use some energy saving fine tuning. Calculate and compare your home energy costs to see where you may be able to save energy.
Click on the Programs & Rebates link to find incentives on qualifying appliances and HVAC equipment, plus information on where to purchase discounted CFLs and LED lighting.
What is the PECO Smart Home Rebates Program?
One of several energy efficiency programs designed exclusively for our residential customers, PECO Smart Home Rebates offers incentives for removing older, inefficient appliances, and heating and cooling equipment, and replacing them with new high efficiency models. For a list of qualifying equipment visit peco.com/SmartIdeas or call 1-888-5-PECO-SAVE (1-888-573-2672). PECO rebate applications can be completed online, or mailed along with proof of purchase for the appliance or equipment purchased and installed.
Why is PECO offering Smart Home Rebates?
The PECO Energy Efficiency & Conservation Plan was filed with the PUC in July 2009 as a result of Act 129 being passed by the Pennsylvania Legislature and signed by Governor Rendell the year before.
Act 129 requires utilities across Pennsylvania to develop programs to help customers reduce energy use by 1% by May 31, 2011 and 3% by May 31, 2013; and reduce energy demand during the 100 highest use hours of the year by 4.5% by May 31, 2013.
How long will the Smart Home Rebates program be available?
The PECO Smart Ideas energy efficiency program was designed to last into 2013. However, funds are limited and subject to availability, so act today by visiting www.peco.com/SmartIdeas or call 1-888-5-PECO-SAVE (1-888-573-2672).
What is ENERGY STAR?
ENERGY STAR is the trusted, government backed symbol for energy efficiency, helping us all save money and protect the environment through energy-efficient products and practices. Products that have earned the ENERGY STAR label meet strict energy efficiency standards.
What is ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2012?
The ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2012 designation recognizes the most efficient products among those that qualify for the ENERGY STAR. These exceptional products represent the leading edge in energy efficient products this year.
What rebates are available?
For a list of rebates and products available through retail stores, click on the Appliances tab.
For a list of rebates and contractor installed equipment, click on the HVAC Equipment tab
Which appliances qualify for a PECO Smart Home Rebate?
ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient 2012 clothes washers and refrigerators, as well as ENERGY STAR qualified room air conditioner units qualify for a PECO Smart Home Rebate. These appliances will help you save the most energy and money. Learn more by visiting the Eligible Products tab.
Which HVAC Equipment qualifies for a PECO Smart Home Rebate?
For a listing of qualifying equipment, visit www.peco.com/SmartIdeas and click on PECO Smart Home Rebates under the Residential Programs and Rebates link. Click on the HVAC Equipment tab at the top of the page.
Does PECO have rebates for electric tankless hot water heaters?
PECO is not offering rebates on electric tankless hot water heaters. PECO’s rebate programs are designed to encourage the installation of measures deemed to provide the most cost effective and shortest payback period for our customers. While electric tankless hot water heaters have high efficiency ratings, the costs associated with installation is high resulting in a longer payback period required for customers to see the full benefit of the investment.
Where can I get a rebate form?
The easiest and fastest way to receive your rebate is to submit your application online. You may also download a form to print and fill out if you prefer. If you need help, call 1-888-5-PECO-SAVE (1-888-573-2672).
Do I have to be a current PECO customer?
Yes, only current PECO residential customers may receive rebates.
Is a Landlord eligible for rebates?
Landlords may be eligible for rebates. Please call 1-888-5-PECO-SAVE (1-888-573-2672) for more information.
My utility bills are included in my rent/association fees. Am I eligible for the rebates?
Yes. Since your management company or association is a PECO account holder you would be eligible for a rebate under our PECO Smart Equipment Incentives program. Please call 1-888-5-PECO-SAVE (1-888-573-2672), Press 2, then 1 for more information.
If I switch to a competitive electric generation supplier, will I be able to participate in the PECO Smart Home Rebates program?
Yes, for the most part all PECO customers can take advantage of the PECO Smart Ideas programs regardless of the energy supplier they choose. Individual program eligibility rules may vary.
If I apply for a heat pump rebate, am I also eligible to apply for a furnace or an air-conditioner rebate?
No, you are not eligible to apply for a furnace or an air-conditioner rebate if you have already applied for a heat pump rebate. Because PECO Smart Home Rebates only provides a rebate for the primary heating source, these rebates cannot be combined.
If I have an electric heat pump with a natural gas furnace as a back up (or as my secondary heat source), can I apply for a natural gas rebate?
No. In order to be eligible for a Smart Gas Efficiency Upgrade rebate for your furnace or boiler, natural gas must be the main or sole source of heating.
How do I find a contractor?
You are able to use any contractor you wish for this program; there is no pre-approved list of contractors. Of course, we encourage you to find a licensed contractor for any equipment that requires professional installation. You can also visit the Electrical Association of Philadelphia at eap.org for contractors in your area.
Do you verify contractor licensing?
No. Please ask any prospective contractors for their state license number.
Do I have to purchase products/equipment at a particular retailer?
Any qualified appliance or equipment is eligible for a rebate, regardless of where it was purchased—as long as it is installed in a PECO customer’s home and the customer can provide a copy of the paid receipt. It may help to use our Find Retailers tab to locate retailers within PECO's territory.
Is there a deadline to get the work completed and still qualify for a rebate?
The current program term is November 1, 2011 through May 31, 2012. Rebate forms must be postmarked by May 31, 2012 to be considered for a rebate. Customer must also provide a dated, paid receipt to be eligible for a rebate.
Is the work performed by a contractor inspected?
PECO does not verify installation quality or safety. However, PECO will randomly inspect equipment to verify qualifying equipment was installed. If you are selected for an inspection, PECO will call you to schedule an appointment.
What if there’s something wrong with the work or the equipment installed? Who do I speak to or call?
How long does it take to receive a rebate?
Rebates are processed within about 4-6 weeks from the time we receive your complete submission.
What if I did not receive the proper documentation (receipt, invoice, etc.) to apply for the rebate?
Please contact your contractor for this information.
How are SEER, EER and HSPF levels determined?
SEER is Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. EER is Energy Efficiency Ratio. HSPF is Heating Season Performance Factor. SEER, EER and HSPF levels are determined by entering the model number of the indoor coil, the outdoor unit and in many cases, the air handler/furnace into the AHRI directory (www.ahridirectory.org). If the complete system does not meet the program requirements, you will not be eligible for a rebate.
I heard that in order for my new high efficiency ac system to qualify for a rebate my furnace needs to be high efficiency too. Is this true?
In most cases, yes. For your new AC system to reach the required SEER and EER levels and be eligible for a rebate, your furnace and air handler also must be high efficiency. If they are not, your AC system may not reach the required SEER and EER levels, and your rebate application may be denied. Check with your contractor to determine if your complete system qualifies for the PECO rebate.