Prices could be increasing in 2023 and time is running out!
If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your home’s air conditioning system or heat pump, there are a few important factors to consider. One crucial piece of information you should be aware of is the new HVAC regulatory changes that will be put into place starting January 1, 2023.
These regulatory changes, which are being mandated by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), will affect the minimum Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings that new air conditioning units can have. This SEER rating measures how much energy your HVAC system uses throughout the course of a year. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient your AC unit will be.
These regulations will impact residential and commercial equipment in equal measure. So, how will the 2023 HVAC efficiency regulations affect homeowners? Let’s go over everything you need to know.
What Are the 2023 HVAC Regulations?
The 2023 HVAC efficiency standards that are being put in place will vary depending on the region you live in. For homeowners in the North, the minimum efficiency requirements for central air conditioners will rise from 13.0 SEER to 14.0 SEER. Homeowners in the South and Southwest will see their standards rise from 14.0 SEER to 15.0 SEER. Since HVAC companies will no longer be able to install units below the 14 SEER mark in most places, 13 SEER is being discontinued.
Heat pumps, which are known for their ability to heat and cool a home, will also be affected by these new efficiency regulations. The minimum rating for heat pumps will increase from 14.0 SEER to 15.0 SEER.
This isn’t the first time that the Department of Energy has issued regulatory changes. In fact, there have been various changes to HVAC equipment throughout the years. Here is everything you need to know about HVAC regulations starting in 2010:
Will HVAC Prices Go Up in 2023?
How will the 2023 HVAC efficiency regulations affect homeowners that are looking to purchase new equipment? Although units with a higher SEER rating tend to have higher upfront costs, it’s worth noting that greater efficiency usually equals higher performance and increased energy savings. The more efficient your AC unit is, the more money you can potentially save on your energy bills.
What Are the New Efficiency Metrics?
Now that we’ve discussed the 2023 HVAC efficiency standards, it’s time to discuss the new testing procedures that manufacturers will be using. For a long time, the metrics for HVAC systems were labeled SEER, EER, and HSPF. Starting on January 1, 2023, these metrics will change to SEER2, EER2, and HSPF2. These updated metrics will apply to residential air conditioners and heat pumps.
While this new system might take some time to get used to, there are a few key metrics that you’ll want to keep in mind. For example, what we currently call 15 SEER will equate to 14.3 SEER2. What we call 14 SEER will be the equivalent of 13.4 SEER2. If you have any questions or concerns about these changes, don’t hesitate to contact a Hamilton County HVAC expert for further assistance.
Do You Need to Upgrade Your Current HVAC System?
When discussing how the 2023 HVAC efficiency regulations will affect homeowners, it’s important to note that these changes will only affect future installations. Homeowners that have recently installed HVAC units won’t need to upgrade their system to fit the new minimum efficiency standards.
However, if your air conditioning system is nearing the end of its service life, now is the time to consider a replacement. HVAC companies will only be able to sell HVAC units they have in stock until the new 2023 HVAC efficiency standards are put into place. Also, it may become difficult to find replacement parts for your specific unit in the future.
Upgrade Your HVAC System Today
The AC units in our homes are designed to last a long time, but these systems won’t last forever. These new 2023 HVAC efficiency standards are on the horizon, and it’s vital to be prepared if your air conditioner or heat pump needs to be replaced. If it’s time to replace your current HVAC system, call Arlinghaus Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. Our HVAC residential contractors are proud to serve homeowners in Erlanger, KY, and beyond.
If you have questions about how the 2023 HVAC efficiency regulations will affect homeowners, we can help you understand the requirements in our region and what they mean for you. Contact our experts today!