2023 HVAC Equipment Government Regulation Changes
Updated: March 21, 2023
As we advance into the 21st century, more and more government regulation changes are being made to improve energy efficiency. One of the essential industries this is affecting is HVAC. In 2023, several new HVAC efficiency standards will go into effect. It could significantly impact how HVAC equipment is manufactured and sold.
If you are a homeowner, business owner, or property manager, you must comply with these changes. This blog post discusses these upcoming regulatory changes and what they could mean for you.
HVAC Efficiency Standards
As a homeowner, chances are you’re always looking to minimize your energy bills. The government is also keen on reducing these costs and protecting the environment. It periodically evaluates energy efficiency levels, available technology, and the economic impacts of changing applicable standards.
The Department of Energy (DOE) proposed that the minimum efficiency levels for some types of HVAC equipment should be raised in 2023. If these suggested changes are adopted, they will be effective on January first, 2023.
The government expects the HVAC equipment manufactured and sold in the U.S. to meet these new, higher standards. Hence, the impact of this change will be different for everyone in the HVAC industry. For some, it will be a positive transition that drives innovation and creates new opportunities. For others, it may mean higher costs and less choice in the marketplace.
The proposed changes are as follows:
New Minimum SEER Ratings
One of the most notable developments that will take place in 2023 is a new minimum SEER rating for central air conditioners. SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, measures how efficiently an air conditioner uses energy throughout a cooling season. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the air conditioner.
The new minimum SEER rating for central air conditioners in 2023 is 14 in northern states. As for the southern states, the minimum SEER rating will be 15. This will significantly increase from the current minimum SEER rating of 13. Consequently, it will likely result in a notable price surge for central air conditioners.
AFUE Rating For Furnaces
Another change that will occur in 2023 is the minimum AFUE rating for furnaces. AFUE, or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, is a metric that measures the efficiency of your furnace throughout a heating season. A high rating implies your furnace is using energy more efficiently. The new minimum AFUE rating required for furnaces in 2023 will be 81%. It is an increase from the current minimum AFUE rating of 80%.
Heating Efficiency For Heat Pumps
The new adjustments will also raise the heating efficiency of heat pumps from 8.2 HSPF (heating seasonal performance factor) to 8.8 HSPF. The new levels will apply to all units with an intermittent fan mode and a two-speed compressor.
What Does This Mean For You?
As an HVAC equipment user, these changes directly impact you. The most remarkable shift will be the price hike of central air conditioners. If you are in the market for a new central air conditioner, you can expect to pay about 20% more for an 80% AFUE unit than you would for a 78% AFUE unit. The good news is that the savings will offset the increased unit fuel cost over the unit’s life.
When buying a new furnace, you will have a few options. For example, you may purchase a 78% AFUE furnace to meet the new minimum standard. Or, you could opt for a higher efficiency furnace. A 90% AFUE furnace will cost about 15% more than a 78% AFUE furnace but will save you money on your fuel bills over the life of the furnace.
Why Should You Embrace the New Regulations?
While the new HVAC efficiency standards may seem like a hassle, they are good news for businesses and homeowners. These standards elevate the HVAC equipment efficiency and enable you to cut costs on energy bills. Besides, they help protect the environment by reducing HVAC equipment emissions.
Prepare to Comply With the 2023 HVAC Regulatory Changes
Now that the Department of Energy has released the new efficiency standards for HVAC equipment try not to get caught up in the last-minute rush. These changes are designed to improve the efficiency of air conditioners, furnaces, and other heating and cooling equipment. Be ready for these upcoming regulation adjustments if you’re a business owner or property manager.
That’s where Herrmann Services comes in; our team of experts can assist you in understanding the new standards and making the necessary updates to your HVAC system. Don’t wait until 2023 arrives. Contact us today to learn more about these regulations and start your preparation.