The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has recently announced updated energy efficiency standards for residential and commercial HVAC systems. These changes, set to take effect in 2023, will have a significant impact on the heating and cooling industry and, ultimately, on homeowners. At Fred’s Plumbing, HVAC, Electric & Underground, we’re committed to keeping our customers informed about industry changes that may affect them. Here’s what you need to know about these new standards:

What’s Changing?

The new regulations primarily focus on increasing the minimum Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) for air conditioners and heat pumps. SEER is a measure of an HVAC system’s cooling output divided by its energy consumption – the higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the system.

Key changes include:

1. Northern States
   • Minimum SEER requirement increases from 13 to 14 for air conditioners.
2. Southern States
   • States: Minimum SEER requirement increases from 14 to 15 for air conditioners
3. Heat Pumps
   • Minimum SEER requirement increases from 14 to 15 nationwide.

What this means for homeowners

1. Improved Energy Efficiency
   
   • Higher SEER ratings mean more efficient systems, potentially leading to lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact.
2. Initial Cost Increase
   • More efficient systems may have a higher upfront cost, but the long-term energy savings often offset this initial investment.
3. Phaseout of Older Systems
   • Manufacturers will phase out production of lower SEER systems, making repairs on older units potentially more challenging in the future.

At Fred’s Plumbing, HVAC, Electric & Underground, we’re committed to staying ahead of industry changes to better serve our customers. While these new standards may seem daunting, they ultimately aim to create more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly heating and cooling solutions for homeowners.

Have questions about how these changes might affect your HVAC system? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of experts. We’re here to help you navigate these changes and ensure your home stays comfortable year-round.