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What the New SEER2 Regulations Mean for Homeowners

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Every so often, new regulations shake up the HVAC industry. Another one is currently on its way. Starting on January 1, 2023, there will be new efficiency standards put in place by the United States Department of Energy that will affect the SEER standards for various types of heating and cooling systems.

A Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating lets you know how much energy an HVAC system uses over the course of a year. Many changes are in store for these ratings. For example, manufacturers are being forced to move away from the term “SEER” and will now use “SEER2.”

So, what is SEER2, and how does it differ from the SEER rating we’ve always used? We’ll go over what the new SEER2 regulations mean for homeowners in more detail below.

What Are the 2023 Efficiency Regulations?

If you’re planning to replace your air conditioner soon, you’re probably worried about how these changes will impact you and your plans. However, before we can discuss what the new SEER2 regulations mean for homeowners, it’s important to know what these changes will entail.

The new efficiency regulations coming in 2023 will vary by region. Homeowners in the southeast and southwest regions of the United States will see their minimum efficiency standards increase from 14 SEER to 15 SEER. Those in the north will have their minimum efficiency standards rise from 13 SEER to 14 SEER.

These changes will impact many types of HVAC systems, including central air conditioners, gas furnaces, mini-split systems, and single-packaged units.

What Is SEER2?

Now that you have a grasp on the regulation changes that are coming in 2023, it’s time to discuss the differences between SEER and SEER2. So, what is SEER2? What can you expect from this new measurement system?

Although manufacturers have used “SEER” to measure an HVAC system’s efficiency for many years, this is going to be replaced with “SEER2” starting on January 1, 2023. Essentially, SEER2 is now being used because efficiency testing procedures have changed.

The SEER2 testing procedures will now take into account external static pressure conditions to better reflect real-world field conditions. This is a good thing, as SEER2 ratings will likely be more accurate.

The values of SEER2 ratings will also differ from SEER ratings. For example, if you have a 14 SEER air conditioner, this will equate to 13.4 SEER2. If you have a 16 SEER unit, this will be the equivalent of 15.2 SEER2.

How Will the SEER2 Regulations Impact You?

Of course, you probably still want to know what the new SEER2 regulations mean for homeowners and what a good SEER rating is for air conditioners. First and foremost, it’s important to understand that there are positives and negatives worth discussing.

There are many benefits to installing an HVAC system with a higher efficiency rating. For example, higher energy efficiency can help you waste less energy. As a result, you can potentially see savings on your heating and cooling costs. Air conditioners and furnaces with higher efficiencies are also known to last longer because they don’t have to work as hard to meet heating and cooling requirements.

These new SEER2 ratings can have their drawbacks. For instance, the cost to install a new HVAC unit is expected to increase once these new efficiency standards are in place.

It’s also crucial to point out that installation requirements will vary from region to region. Starting on January 1, 2023, homeowners in the south and southwest regions of the country will only be able to install HVAC units that meet SEER2 standards. This is different for homeowners in the north, who can still install lower-efficiency units if HVAC companies have them in stock.

What Should You Do?

If you’re planning to upgrade your HVAC system soon and want to avoid the efficiency changes, you’ll want to schedule a replacement as soon as possible. There’s still time to install an air conditioner or mini-split system with a lower efficiency rating — but companies might have limited stock, so it’s best to hurry.

Lee’s Air, Plumbing & Heating offers installation services for a wide range of HVAC systems. We specialize in central air conditioners and ductless mini-splits in Sacramento, CA, and the surrounding areas. If you’re ready to replace your current system, we can help you find a replacement that fits your needs.

Ready to Upgrade Your AC Unit? Contact Us Today

“What is SEER2?” If you were asking this question, hopefully, you now have a better understanding of the 2023 efficiency changes and what the new SEER2 regulations mean for homeowners.

There are many advantages to installing an air conditioning system or furnace with a higher efficiency rating, but you can expect to encounter higher upfront costs as well.

Now that you know what SEER2 is and how efficiency standards are changing, contact Lee’s Air, Plumbing & Heating to replace your HVAC system. We’re proud to help you with a top-tier air conditioner or furnace replacement in Fresno, CA. Schedule an appointment today!

Thomas Howard

Written by Thomas Howard

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