Most of have heard the term “SEER” relating to our air conditioning and heating system or a perspective HVAC system.
Fewer know what that represents.
SEER is an acronym for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This is a ratio of the cooling capacity in BTU’s per hour to power consumption in watts. The higher the SEER results in less electricity used to cool the home. The present minimum SEER is 14.
We’re all very efficient now and all is great, right? Not so fast! The DOE (Department of Energy) has stepped in and changed the SEER testing procedures to what is now going to be SEER2. This new HVAC product testing procedure is mandatory as of January 1, 2023. Here is the kicker.. SEER rated split a/c systems that are coupled with natural gas furnaces, which are prevalent in metro Atlanta, GA can not be installed after December 31, 2022. In the past it has always been a manufacturing deadline but not this time. (Note: SEER rated split heat pumps will have a 1/1/2023 manufactured deadline and can be legally installed after) This change will force manufacturers to end the production of SEER rated split a/c units well ahead of the deadline.
So what does this mean for the consumer? Prices are going to dramatically increase, SOON, in addition to the other recent increases we’ve been given. If you’re pushing that old a/c year to year there is no better time than now to have your HVAC system replaced. We provide free estimates for replacements. Give E Dennis a call, we would love to help with your new system replacement!
*This article represents the best interpretation of the new upcoming standards and dates. We can provide more detailed information upon request.