HVAC News - SEER Mandates

SEER-2 Energy Efficiency Measurement:

New SEER standards mandated by the U.S. Department of Energy are set to bring changes to HVAC systems, and it's essential to understand what these changes mean for homeowners. Let's break down the upcoming alterations and the anticipated impacts.

Understanding SEER and Energy Efficiency Measurement:

Measuring the efficiency of air conditioners and air-source heat pumps is intricate due to varying system performance under different weather conditions. Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) addresses this complexity by calculating a system's performance across an entire season, providing a single reference number for efficiency comparison. A higher SEER rating signifies lower energy consumption and reduced cooling costs.

Introduction of SEER-2 Mandates:

For years, the Department of Energy has set minimum efficiency standards for new cooling systems. Currently, the minimum SEER rating is 13 for the North and 14 for the South and Southwest. However, starting January 1, 2023, these standards will increase by one for most systems under the SEER-2 initiative. The SEER-2 mandates come with updated testing procedures to better reflect real-world conditions, resulting in more accurate efficiency data. On average, a current 14 SEER rating will compare to a SEER-2 rating of approximately 13.4.

Impact on Homeowners:

As efficiency often correlates with increased prices, the installation cost of new HVAC systems is likely to rise in January. Existing equipment below the new SEER-2 standards is not required to be replaced. While there may be added upfront costs, the potential long-term savings on energy bills can offset these expenses.

Another significant change in 2023 involves the phase-out of R-410A refrigerant. While newer models won't use this refrigerant, it's still common in many current air conditioning units. Existing systems do not need immediate replacement to comply with the new regulations, but homeowners with R-410A systems should consider planning for eventual equipment upgrades.

In summary, the 2023 SEER-2 mandates signal a noteworthy shift in the HVAC industry. Although the cost of new systems may increase, the expected efficiency improvements bring positive news for homeowners in terms of long-term energy savings.