2023 HVAC Efficiency Standards: Everything Homeowners Should Know

On January 1, 2023, you can expect new regulations to shake up the HVAC industry. Starting on the first day of the new year, the minimum efficiency standards for central air conditioners and heat pumps will increase throughout the United States. These changes are being mandated by the Department of Energy (DOE) and will have a significant impact on what kinds of HVAC equipment can be bought by homeowners and sold by companies.

Are you hoping to replace your air conditioner soon? It’s important to know how these regulation changes can potentially affect your plans. Without wasting another minute, let’s go over what you can expect from the new changes heading our way.

Why Are the Minimum Efficiency Standards Changing?

Every six years, the Depart of Energy reevaluates minimum efficiency requirements and the country’s energy usage. This time around, the DOE’s 2023 HVAC efficiency standards are set to impact the minimum efficiencies for central air conditioners and heat pumps.

Both of these HVAC systems use a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating to measure efficiency. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the system will be.

Let’s discuss how these new 2023 HVAC efficiency standards are going to shake out.

Central Air Conditioners

The 2023 HVAC regulatory changes for central air conditioning systems will vary by region. If you live in the North, you can expect the minimum efficiency requirements to increase from 13 to 14 SEER. On the other hand, residents in the South and Southwest will see the efficiency ratings increase from 14 to 15 SEER.

Heat Pumps

Besides central air conditioners, heat pumps are one of the most common HVAC systems among homeowners. These units are well-known for their ability to heat and cool a home, depending on the season. So, how will the new 2023 HVAC regulations affect these systems?

The regulations that apply to central air conditioners are a bit different from those that apply to heat pumps. First and foremost, 2023 HVAC regulatory changes won’t affect all types of heat pump systems. Instead, the new requirements will only apply to air-source heat pumps.

Starting on January 1, 2023, the minimum efficiency ratings for these HVAC systems will increase from 14.0 to 15.0 SEER. These changes will apply to all North, South, and Southwest regions.

New Testing Procedures & Terminology

Along with the 2023 HVAC regulatory changes, it’s worth noting that there will also be new testing procedures for this equipment. These updated testing procedures will better account for field conditions by increasing external static pressures.

Since the procedures are changing, there will also be new metrics: SEER2, EER2, and HSPF2.

Fortunately, these metrics aren’t too difficult to understand. For example, a central air conditioner that is 14 SEER will equate to 13.4 SEER2. On the same note, a heat pump that is 15 SEER will be 14.3 SEER2.

What Do the 2023 HVAC Regulatory Changes Mean for You?

There are many benefits to the new and improved 2023 HVAC efficiency standards. When you install an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating, you can waste less energy and potentially save money on your energy bills. Cutting down on your energy usage can also help you be a little more environmentally friendly without having to make a significant change to your daily routine.

Of course, the cost of equipment is also predicted to increase throughout the industry. HVAC systems with higher SEER ratings are known for having higher upfront costs than systems with lower ratings.

If you’re thinking about replacing your air conditioner soon, don’t hesitate to contact your local technician for an AC service in Sherman, TX. Even though the new regulations won’t go into effect until 2023, supplies of lower-efficiency (and lower-cost) HVAC systems are limited.

Schedule a Free Full-System Evaluation Today

Is your current air conditioning system on its last leg? Get in touch with Adon Complete Air Conditioning & Heating to replace your current system with a similar one today. We are happy to provide you with a full-system evaluation at no extra cost to find a solution that meets your family’s specific needs.

Although the 2023 HVAC efficiency standards are on the horizon, there’s no reason to worry. There’s still some time to upgrade your system before these regulations go into effect.

Our licensed and insured technicians make home comfort a top priority. We offer AC replacement services in Fairview, TX, and the surrounding areas with a focus on quality and customer satisfaction. Contact us today for more information about our services!