HVAC Efficiency Is Rising, Here’s What You Need To Know
The minimum efficiency ratings for HVAC systems are going to increase in 2023. That’s great news for consumers’ utility bills and for the planet! If you already have a system you’re satisfied with, you won’t experience any changes. But if you’re considering a new air conditioner or heat pump, some lower efficiency equipment available today may not be available after December 31, 2022. Across the country, units below 13 and 14 SEER will no longer be manufactured, though some regions will still allow those units to be sold and installed after that date.
For details on how regulations will change for your region of the U.S., we’ve included helpful graphs below.
Has This Happened Before?
Yes! The Department of Energy periodically analyzes energy usage and environmental impact, then adjusts minimum efficiency requirements as needed.
How Minimum SEER Efficiency Ratings Have Changed Over The Years
A New Testing Standard: SEER2 and HSPF2
Efficiency minimums aren’t the only thing that’s changing. Starting in 2023, HVAC manufacturers will be required to comply with new, enhanced testing standards, brought to life by new ratings systems SEER2, HSPF2 and EER2. These new ratings are designed to more accurately reflect how your system will perform after installation.
What Is SEER2 and HSPF2?
SEER2 and HSPF2 are very similar to current SEER and HSPF standards, but the ratings will reflect the results of the new testing standards. SEER2 and EER2 efficiency ratings will be approximately 5% lower than current ratings, and HSPF2 approximately 15% lower. However, this does not mean the equipment is less efficient than it is today.
How Will This Affect Me?
You may not notice a significant change. However, you will notice that both SEER and SEER2 ratings, as well as HSPF and HSPF2 (where applicable), will be published for all our air conditioners, heat pumps and residential package units.
And if you are currently shopping for a new HVAC system in the 13-14 SEER efficiency range, these new regulations may affect availability. Check out the charts below to see exactly how your region will be affected.
Can my equipment still be repaired after these dates?
Yes! We will still support all of our customers with repair and replacement parts. In addition, all equipment will still be covered by our standard and extended warranties (where applicable) for the entire warranty period, even after the new regulations take effect.
Air Conditioner Changes Across North America
IN THE NORTH
Units Manufactured After December 31, 2022
65,000 BTUH OR LESS
Split Air Conditioners
- 14 SEER
- 13.4 SEER
Can I still install a lower efficiency split AC unit After January 1, 2023?
Yes. You will still be able to purchase and install a unit below the minimum efficiency standards, as long as it was manufactured prior to 2023.
IN THE SOUTHEAST
Units Manufactured After December 31, 2022
45,000 BTUH OR LESS
Split Air Conditioners
- 15 SEER, 12.2 EER*
- 14.3 SEER2, 11.7 EER2**
GREATER THAN 45,000 BTUH
Split Air Conditioners
- 14.5 SEER, 11.7 EER*
- 13.8 SEER2, 11.2 EER2**
Can I still install a lower efficiency split AC unit After January 1, 2023?
No. Units below the new efficiency standards will no longer be available for sale in the southeast.
IN THE SOUTHWEST
Units Manufactured After December 31, 2022
45,000 BTUH OR LESS
Split Air Conditioners
- 15 SEER, 12.2 EER*
- 14.3 SEER2, 11.7 EER2**
GREATER THAN 45,000 BTUH
Split Air Conditioners
- 14.5 SEER, 11.7 EER*
- 13.8 SEER2, 11.2 EER2**
Can I still install a lower efficiency split AC unit After January 1, 2023?
No. Units below the new efficiency standards will no longer be available for sale in the southwest.
Heat Pump Changes Across North America
IN NORTH AMERICA
Units Manufactured After December 31, 2022
65,000 BTUH OR LESS
Split System Heat Pumps
- 15 SEER, 8.8 HSPF
- 14.3 SEER2, 7.5 HSPF2
Can I still install a lower efficiency split system heat pump unit After January 1, 2023?
Yes. You will still be able to purchase and install a unit below the minimum efficiency standards, as long as it was manufactured prior to 2023.
*10.2 EER if SEER ≥ 16**9.8 EER2 if SEER2 ≥ 15.2
Have Questions?
Contact your local AirEase dealer to get all the answers you need.