What to Know About the New Federal Regulations for Energy Efficiency
The Department of Energy (DOE) frequently enacts rules focused on reducing energy consumption and pollution in the United States. With the newest 2023 HVAC regulatory changes now in effect, you could wonder how these changes impact new air conditioning systems, energy efficiency and whether they’ll mean you need to replace your existing AC system. Here are the answers to many of the frequently asked questions on this topic.
Why Did the DOE Make HVAC Regulatory Changes?
The new regulations, which took effect on January1, 2023, impact new air conditioning systems and heat pumps. These modifications aim to standardize and optimize energy efficiency, generate more environmentally friendly options and develop new standards for refrigerants and testing methods.
How Is Heating and Cooling Efficiency Measured?
All air conditioners and heat pumps receive a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) signifying the level of cooling output in British thermal units or BTUs over a normal cooling season divided by the energy consumed. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system is, as it can remove the same level of heat using a lesser amount of energy. This rating system has been an industry standard since the 1970s, allowing consumers to easily evaluate different AC units and choose ones that meet their energy efficiency needs.
Some ACs also receive an energy efficiency ratio (EER) calculated by dividing the cooling output (BTUs per hour) by the electrical power input (in watts) at a single point in time. Unlike SEER, EER does not take into account seasonal changes and instead measures the unit’s efficiency during peak use. EER is used for calculating an AC unit's performance during the hottest days of the year.
Heat pump heating efficiency is measured with the heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF). This ratio finds the total heating required during the heating season (in BTUs) divided by the total watt-hours of electricity consumed. A lot like SEER and EER, a higher HSPF rating signifies better energy efficiency. HSPF has been a standard heating efficiency calculation since the late 1980s.
How Are SEER2, EER2 and HSPF2 Different?
SEER2, EER2 and HSPF2 are the most recent ways to measure AC and heat pump efficiency. These cutting-edge standards give homeowners a more reliable understanding of their energy use when they purchase a particular AC unit or heat pump.
SEER2-compliant models also use updated refrigerants with lower global warming potential (GWP) and ozone depletion potential (ODP) compared to previously used refrigerants. Outdated R-22 (Freon) and R-410A (Puron) will be recovered and sold for repairing older units, but they won’t be allowed in new HVAC systems.
What Are the New 2023 Federal Regulations for Energy Efficiency?
The changes in HVAC system testing requirements mean SEER2, EER2 and HSPF2 are more accurate. They include testing equipment under more accurate field conditions, accounting for ductwork and static pressure, which SEER, EER and HSPF ratings don’t consider.
The new air conditioning and heat pump energy efficiency regulations for 2023:
- Air conditioners installed in the North: 13.4 SEER2 (14 SEER)
- Air conditioners installed in the South: 14.3 SEER2 (15 SEER)
- Air conditioners installed in the Southwest: 14.3 SEER2 (15 SEER) & 11.7 EER2 (12.2 EER)
- Heat pumps installed nationwide: 14.3 SEER2 (15 SEER) & 7.5 HSPF2 (8.8 HSPF)
How Do I Find My Current HVAC Efficiency Rating?
The first place to look is the yellow EnergyGuide label on the side of your air conditioning unit or heat pump. You can also search for your unit’s make and model on the DOE’s Energy Compliance Certification Database.
Systems installed before 2023 will show a SEER rating. Those made in 2022 or before but installed after January 1, 2023, will also have a SEER rating. All models made and installed in 2023 or later will get a SEER2 rating.
Notice that air conditioners made before 2023 can only be installed in the Northern U.S. In the South, SEER2-compliant units are required from January 1 onward. If an installer violates these guidelines and the DOE cites them, they must replace the non-compliant air conditioner without charging the homeowner.
Do I Need to Replace My Existing HVAC System?
No, the shift to SEER2, EER2 and HSPF2 only impacts newly manufactured and installed HVAC units. There is not a legal requirement to replace your existing cooling system. But, if you’re wanting to upgrade, meeting the 2023 HVAC regulatory changes will save you money on electric bills and comes with more advanced features, including smart thermostats and zoning.
Partner with Orangutan Home Services For HVAC Service in Tempe
No matter if you decide now is the time to replace your home's AC system, or you want to keep your current air conditioner in top shape and going strong, Orangutan Home Services can help. We’re very familiar with the 2023 HVAC regulatory changes and testing requirements, so we can help you select and install a compliant AC or heat pump. We also perform reliable air conditioning maintenance and repairs if you’re not looking to replace your system.
When you choose Orangutan Home Services, you’re partnering with a cooling and heating company that understands your needs. We are dedicated to your comfort, environmental sustainability and utter satisfaction.
Eager to switch to a SEER2-compliant HVAC unit? Still have questions? Call Orangutan Home Services at 602-906-0111 today, and we’ll guide you every single step of the way!
