The Department of Energy (DOE) frequently implements rules targeted on reducing energy consumption and pollution in the United States. With the newest 2023 HVAC regulatory changes now in effect, you might wonder how the new rules impact new air conditioners, energy efficiency and whether they’ll mean you need to replace your home’s AC system. Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions on the changes.
Why Did the DOE Make HVAC Regulatory Changes?
The new regulations, which took effect on January1, 2023, cover new air conditioning systems and heat pumps. These changes aim to standardize and optimize energy efficiency, produce more environmentally friendly options and set 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) indicating the level of cooling output in British thermal units or BTUs over a typical cooling season divided by the electricity consumed. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the unit is, as it can remove the same amount of heat using a lesser amount of energy. This rating method has been an industry standard since the 1970s, enabling consumers to easily compare different AC units and choose ones that meet their energy efficiency needs.
Quite a few ACs also earn 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 factor in seasonal changes and instead assesses the unit’s efficiency during peak operation. EER is used for identifying 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 calculates the total heating required during the heating season (in BTUs) divided by the total watt-hours of power consumed. Similar to SEER and EER, a higher HSPF rating shows greater energy efficiency. HSPF has been a common 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 precise picture of their energy use when they purchase a particular AC unit or heat pump.
SEER2-compliant units also use updated refrigerants with reduced 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 Air conditioning systems.
What Are the New 2023 Federal Regulations for Energy Efficiency?
The changes in HVAC system assessment specifications mean SEER2, EER2 and HSPF2 are more precise. They involve testing equipment under more accurate field conditions, accounting for ductwork and static pressure, which SEER, EER and HSPF ratings don’t factor into calculations.
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 check is the yellow EnergyGuide label on the side of your air conditioning unit or heat pump. You can also check for your system's make and model on the DOE’s Energy Compliance Certification Database.
Systems installed before 2023 will list a SEER rating. Those produced in 2022 or before but installed after January 1, 2023, will also have a SEER rating. All units produced and installed in 2023 or later will come with a SEER2 rating.
Notice that air conditioners built before 2023 can only be installed in the Northern U.S. In the South, SEER2-compliant units are required from January 1 and afterward. If an installer breaches these rules and the DOE punishes them, they must replace the non-compliant AC unit free of charge to the homeowner.
Do I Need to Replace My Existing HVAC System?
No, the switch to SEER2, EER2 and HSPF2 only affects newly constructed and installed HVAC units. There isn't any legal necessity to replace your current AC unit. But, if you’re wanting to upgrade, meeting the 2023 HVAC regulatory changes will save you money on energy bills and comes with more advanced features, including smart thermostats and zoning.
Partner with Sunbeam Service Experts For HVAC Service in Buffalo
Whether you determine now is the time to replace your existing AC system, or you want to keep your current system in top shape and going strong, Sunbeam Service Experts can help. We’re on top of the 2023 HVAC regulatory changes and testing requirements, so we can help you find and install a compliant air conditioning or heat pump. We also perform reliable air conditioning maintenance and repairs if you’re not prepared to replace your system.
When you choose Sunbeam Service Experts, you’re partnering with an HVAC company that understands your needs. We are fully committed to your comfort, environmental sustainability and total satisfaction.
Eager to switch to a SEER2-compliant HVAC unit? Still have questions? Call Sunbeam Service Experts at 716-427-6807 today, and we’ll help you every single step of the way!