What the 2023 SEER2 Update Means for Utah Homeowners
Homeowners in Utah should be aware of the new SEER2 rating change coming in the new year.
Energy efficiency in air conditioning units is measured by two universal standards: EER and SEER. The first is an objective measurement of a unit’s efficiency; the higher the EER rating, the more efficient the unit. SEER, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio, also measures an AC unit’s efficiency, but over the course of an entire cooling season. Like EER, the higher a unit’s SEER rating, the more efficient it is.
On Jan. 1, 2023, new Department of Energy HVAC system regulations covering efficiency, requirements, testing, and certifications for heating and cooling systems will go into effect. Any new HVAC systems installed in Utah on or after Jan. 1, 2023, must comply with these new regulations, as detailed below.
Most experts expect the cost of these more efficient systems to be higher than the standard increased pricing currently on the market. Upgrading your home’s outdated unit before prices go up could save you money in the long run.
If you’ve been considering replacing your HVAC system with a new, more energy-efficient model, Mountain Air Conditioning & Heating will help you choose the best system for your needs and ensure it’s installed correctly and up to standard.
What’s a SEER Rating?
A SEER rating describes how much energy an AC unit uses annually and is measured by dividing the total energy required to run a unit by its total cooling capacity.
The current minimum standard of 13 SEER will increase to 14 SEER in 2023 and includes air conditioner condensing units, heat pumps, single packaged units, split systems, evaporator coils, and gas furnaces.
Although heat pumps will be affected nationwide, split systems will have regional increases.
2023 SEER2 Changes in Utah
What do these changes mean to Utah homeowners?
The Department of Energy has designed Utah as part of the “North Region,” whose new minimum SEER efficiency guidelines are:
- Residential cooling systems below 45,000 BTU must have a minimum SEER rating of 13.4 (14.0 SEER).
- Residential central AC systems at 45,000 BTU and above must have a minimum SEER rating of 14.
- Heat pumps must meet 14.3 SEER2 (15.0 SEER) and 7.5 HSPF2 (8.8 HSPF) (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) requirements.
- Gas furnace rating standards will be 81% AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) for all regions.
Each system’s manufacturing date in the North Region determines compliance with the new regulations, which grants contractors enough time to sell their 13.0 SEER inventory.
These new standards are part of Utah’s commitment to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions in the state, and help you save on energy costs. Keep in mind that although the regulations apply to new systems that must meet SEER2 requirements, they do not affect your current system.
Trust Mountain Air for Energy-Efficient HVAC Installation
While you are not required to install a new HVAC system to meet the 2023 SEER2 guidelines, if your home’s existing AC unit is aging out or not performing as efficiently as it once was, now could be the best time to replace it before the expected price increase.
As a trusted source for Utah’s most energy-efficient HVAC services, Mountain Air can expertly and safely replace your home’s HVAC system. Since 1954, we’ve proudly provided Utah homeowners with exceptional heating and cooling solutions, including AC and furnace installation, repair, and maintenance.
We offer same-day service and financing options for all makes and models of air conditioners and furnaces, and all our technicians are NATE-certified.
Contact Mountain Air online or call (801) 416-2215(801) 416-2215 to learn more about the new SEER2 regulations or schedule services.
