Many government agencies and local power companies offer incentives in the form of rebates for those who upgrade to a high-efficiency HVAC system. While higher efficiency units cost more, the long-term savings in energy usage will help to reduce power consumption during peak times, such as summer months in south Texas. That translates into smaller monthly utility bills for the consumer. You can estimate how long it will be before you see the efficiency savings cover the cost of your unit with a mobile app such as e-Saver™.
You can search online for other rebate programs designed to help with the cost of installing new, high-efficiency equipment. A few of those sites are listed on the right.