You deserve an energy-efficient HVAC system that provides reliable heating and cooling without breaking the bank. To ensure HVAC equipment keeps up with advances in energy efficiency, the US Department of Energy requires that standards for HVAC systems like your furnace or air conditioner are periodically reviewed. Thanks to the Energy and Conservation Act of 1975, this happens every six years.
In 2023, the standards were reviewed and updated. So what does that mean for people living in and around O’Fallon? If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your HVAC system, the make and model you choose will have to meet higher standards. If you’re worried this will increase your energy bill, rest easy with the knowledge that these standards are designed to help you save money.
SEER Ratings and AC Efficiency
The energy efficiency of air conditioners is measured with a rating system known as the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER rating. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient a given make and model is. While energy-efficient HVAC systems cost more up front, you’ll save more money in the long run thanks to lower monthly energy bills.
What Changed in 2023?
Testing procedures and requirements for measuring the energy efficiency of HVAC equipment have changed. There are also new energy-efficiency ratings, designed to offer more precise measurements: SEER2, HSPF2 and EER2. Minimum ratings are broken into several regions spread across the US. This is because what’s considered energy efficient in Phoenix, Arizona, will be much different compared to what’s energy efficient in Boston, Massachusetts. Currently, the minimum SEER requirements are as follows:
| Region | AC Minimum SEER now | AC Minimum SEER by 2023 | Current Heat Pump Min. SEER | 2023 Heat Pump Min. SEER |
| North | 13 | 14 | 14 | 15 |
| South + Southeast | 14 | 15 | 14 | 15 |
| Southwest | 14 | 15 | 14 | 15 |
| *New 2023 map territories are: North, South, Southwest |
How Does This Apply to Homeowners in O’Fallon?
Here’s what the new SEER2 requirements mean for O’Fallon homeowners. After January 1, 2023, any new installs must meet the new minimum efficiency standards in both residential and commercial buildings.
| North Region: | Air conditioners |
| Increase of 1 SEER from 13 to 14 SEER minimum | |
| Starting January 1, 2023 | |
| 13 SEER units built prior to Jan 1, 2023, can be sold indefinitely | |
| National: | Heat pumps |
| Increase 1 SEER from 14 to 15 SEER minimum | |
| Increase 0.6 HSPF from 8.2 to 8.8 HSPF minimum | |
| Starting January 1, 2023 | |
| 14 SEER/8.2 HSPF units built prior to January 1, 2023, can be sold indefinitely |
This means that when selling and installing new equipment, contractors will need to sell systems that are in compliance with the new regulations. If you want a new air conditioner, you’ll need a minimum SEER rating of 14. High-efficiency models can offer SEER ratings of 24 and higher, so you have lots of options to choose from.
Why the 2023 SEER Change Matters
The HVAC industry works to keep costs to homeowners as low as possible while also minimizing the impact HVAC equipment has on the environment. This balance provides the best possible system efficiency for your heating and cooling. Upgrading to newer, more efficient systems can increase home comfort and reduce utility costs.
If you’re thinking about upgrading to a new HVAC system, consider getting in touch with a local experienced service company like Home Heating & Cooling. Our expert installers can help you identify the best possible makes and models for your comfort needs.