The Department of Energy is changing their efficiency standards in the HVAC space, but why should you care and which appliances does this affect in your home?
In this post, we will discuss the new minimum efficiency standards in four areas:
- Split system air conditioners (including ductless)
- Split system heat pumps (including ductless)
- Single-packaged air conditioners
- Single-packaged heat pumps
We will also explain the potential benefits that come with using energy efficient appliances.
What do the experts say?
Data from 2015, provided by Motili, suggests that HVAC accounted for 35% of the carbon emissions in a typical building. With your HVAC comprising more than a third of all emissions, it’s not surprising that manufacturers are working on new and better ways to provide HVAC equipment that is more efficient and clean.
In fact, an article from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, said, “by the end of 2050, 12 states and 160 cities have official goals to get 100% of their electricity from clean sources”.
And Energy.gov is leading the way in researching and exploring different methods of providing clean and efficient energy sources, from solar and wind to geothermal and bioenergy.
What do you get out of this?
Before we dig into the 2023 minimum efficiency standards for your HVAC appliances, let’s explain a little bit about energy efficiency benefits.
Most of us like the idea of being more energy-efficient, but if there are benefits to be had besides the glow of doing the right thing, we are more likely to making the right choices.
Let’s start with the #1 benefit that speaks to almost everyone:
MONEY! That’s right, we are talking about cold, hard cash back in your pocket. And who wouldn’t want that? As Energy.gov explains, “energy-efficient buildings cost less to heat, cool and operate”.
All I need is the air that I breathe! That’s the second big benefit.
Who wouldn’t want to breathe a little easier? Choosing energy-efficiency helps you do just that. It makes for cleaner air, water and land.
Join the fight against climate change!
Yep, that’s the third benefit. Energy-efficient appliances don’t need to run as often or as long, so you can minimize your impact on the environment.
Chill out…no, really
Finally, you just won’t have to worry about having to repair your equipment as often if you are embracing energy-efficient appliances. This will also ensure maintenance is kept at a minimum. And, that means more time for you to think about the things you really want to, like maybe that vacation?
What the heck is that? Energy efficient equipment explained
Before we cover the new 2023 HVAC efficiency standards, it is probably a good idea to briefly touch on each piece of equipment that’s affected.
1) Split system air conditioners and split system heat pumps (including ductless):
Homeguides.com explains, “The split system heat pump is a heat, air-conditioning and ventilation system (HVAC) divided between an outdoor unit and an indoor unit. The two units are connected through the house by copper piping. The outdoor unit houses a coil that acts as a heat exchanger and compressor. The indoor unit houses a coil and a fan.”
And as the name suggest, this system works as an air conditioner in the warmer months and then turns around and becomes a heater when the weather gets colder.
2) Single-packaged air conditioner
As defined by ecomfort.com, “The compressor, coils, and air handler are all housed in a single-box cabinet.”
3) Single-packaged heat pump
A packaged heat pump uses heat pump technology to cool and heat your home.
New minimum energy efficiency standards for HVAC appliances in 2023
When talking about the new standards, the three acronyms you need to know are SEER, which stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, EER which means Energy Efficiency Ratio and HSPF, which stands for Heating Seasonal Performance Factor.
1) Split system air conditioners (including ductless)
- Current standards = 13 SEER
- 2023 standards = 13.4 SEER
2) Split system heat pumps (including ductless)
- Current standards = 14 SEER/8.2 HSPF
- 2023 standards = 14.3 SEER2/7.5 HSPF2
3) Single-packaged air conditioners
- Current standards = 14 SEER/11 EER
- 2023 standards = 13.4 SEER /10.6 EER2
4) Single-packaged heat pumps
- Current standards = 14 SEER/8 HSPF
- 2023 standards = 13.4 SEER2/6.7 HSPF2
One thing to note is that units manufactured before January 1, 2023 may be installed indefinitely.
What do these changes mean?
You may be wondering why these changes are necessary. Every time a change like this happens, it’s primary goal is to produce more energy efficiency. As one article describes it, “The Department of Energy evaluates appliances every six years to determine whether minimum efficiency requirements and testing standards warrant change.”
All of the changes will mean less electricity will be needed for the same amount of cooling happening today at a higher rate.
While initial costs for these newer, more efficient appliances may be higher, there will be significant costs savings over time.
Keeping the cool side cool and the hot side hot
Not sure what these changes will mean for you? It’s okay if you’re not sure. And we don’t expect you memorize these regulations. We suggest letting the experts assist you.
Need help installing, maintaining, fixing or upgrading your HVAC? Eyman Plumbing, Heating and Air can help! We guarantee our work on all services we provide. Email us or call us at (402) 731-2727 and set up your appointment today!