With the new year comes change, as the Department of Energy increases energy efficiency testing requirements and regulations on all new HVAC equipment. While change can be a good thing, the new requirements combined with economic changes could cause HVAC equipment prices to rise 20-30% in 2023. The new Energy Bill’s SEER2 and M1 testing requirements stand to have a high impact on consumer costs as affordable lower rated HVAC and heat pump models become unavailable and consumers are forced to purchase new redesigned high efficiency models. Although a new cooling system will help you save money on monthly energy bills, it will initially cost more to have them installed after January 1, 2023 due to an increase in the cost of the equipment.These changes are based on the Department of Energy’s new SEER rating and testing requirements. In order to meet the new testing requirements, all new heating and cooling components will have to be redesigned by the manufacturers – which translates to higher price tags and potential equipment shortages as the new systems are rolled out. Even equipment models that meet the current SEER ratings will need to be revamped to accommodate the new testing procedures.
Being aware of this upcoming 2023 HVAC regulation change provides budget savvy homeowners an opportunity to save on a new HVAC system installed in 2022. Upgrading your older or inefficient air conditioner or heat pump model before the end of the year will allow you to purchase the current 2022 equipment models, thereby avoiding the price increase associated with the DOE changes. In addition, many heating and cooling companies are offering huge incentives and discounts on the installation of 2022 models that they will be unable to install after January 1, 2023.
The New SEER2 Rating System
SEER stands for “seasonal energy efficiency ratio”, which is a scale that measures the efficiency of various heating and cooling systems. The higher the rating, the less energy a piece of equipment is expected to use, and the more money you could save on your energy bill.
Starting in 2023, the Department of Energy’s mandate will change the testing procedures for HVAC equipment, and efficiency ratings will be based on the new SEER2 rating system. These SEER ratings will be more accurate and beneficial in the long run. However, if you have been considering an HVAC system upgrade, this information is important to understand as you invest in new equipment.
The initial cost of Installing a high efficiency energy system may be more than you are ready to tackle right now, but there are benefits to replacing it now. In order to avoid the new price jump we recommend upgrading your AC or heat pump system this year if at all possible.
If you do choose to hold out for the new higher priced systems rolling out in 2023 you may pay more on the front end but the increased energy efficiency should ultimately lead to lower costs in the long run. While it may seem like a significant expenditure right now, the Department of Energy’s HVAC changes for 2023 will inevitably result in lower bills and a brighter future for generations to come.
What is the Impact for North Carolina Residents?
Starting January 1, 2023 Garner, NC residents installing a new residential central air system below 45,000 Btu must have a SEER2 rating of 14.3 (15.0 SEER). Residential central air systems 45,000 Btu and above must have a SEER2 rating of 13.8 (14.5 SEER). In addition, all new heat pumps installed must meet 14.3 SEER2 (15.0 SEER) and 7.5 HSPF2 (8.8 HSPF). In reality SEER rating requirements are only increasing by 1 SEER but new testing regulations will force manufactures to redesign all 2023 models.
Trust Our HVAC Industry Experts
For more information about the SEER2 rating changes or to learn more about which system is best for your home, call AnyDay Heating & Cooling to discuss your options. As the experts on HVAC in Garner, NC, the AnyDay way is to provide honest and trustworthy service recommendations that ensure all HVAC repairs or replacements you make are both cost efficient and beneficial to your family’s comfort.
