New HVAC Testing Requirements: What Do They Mean for Me?
A new way of testing HVAC systems for energy efficiency is on the horizon. These new testing procedures have been developed to help ensure that systems meet higher energy efficiency standards. The Department of Energy (DOE) is requiring all new HVAC systems and equipment to be tested with the more stringent M1 testing procedures to meet the new SEER2 ratings.
Although these new standards promise to help pave the way for a more sustainable future, what do they mean for homeowners like you?
What is SEER2 and M1 Testing?
Let’s start by talking about what the new M1 testing and SEER2 ratings mean.
The goal of the new M1 testing procedures is to more accurately test how HVAC systems work in real-world situations with the influence of ductwork and external static pressure. Current testing procedures don’t accurately simulate what it’s like to run an HVAC system in a real-world environment.
Systems that pass the new M1 testing procedures will have to meet the new SEER2 ratings standards. SEER2 stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2. In simple terms, SEER2 represents the total heat that is removed from an air conditioned space.
When Does this Go into Effect?
The new testing and ratings requirements will begin to go into effect as of January 1st, 2023 in South and Southwest regions. In California, we’ve already been informed that there will be no grace period, forcing suppliers to get rid of their current inventory that doesn’t meet the new requirements by December 31, 2022.
Why Does this Matter to Me?
If you own an aging AC system and are interested in saving money on a new system, then this is the year to purchase. Systems are anticipated to rise an estimated 20% when the revised testing and minimum SEER2 rating requirements go into effect.
Inventory of systems that do not meet the new ratings requirements will begin to run out as suppliers prepare for the transition in 2023. This means that current and more affordable systems might be unavailable as early as October of this year.
Systems that meet the new standards will likely cost $1000 to $2000 more than the cost of current systems that meet the 2022 standards.
How Can On Time Home Services Help?
Buying a new AC system is a big decision and many factors go into the decision-making process.
The benefits for homeowners who choose to invest in a system designed to meet the new SEER2 rating requirements is that they are 7-10% more energy efficient than older systems. Although the equipment will cost more, there will be savings on electricity bills going forward.
However, not every homeowner needs to reduce their electricity usage, especially if they own solar panels that produce more energy than they use.
At On Time Home Services, we want to help you save money and get a system that meets your needs at a cost that is appealing to you. We are here to help guide you through your options and lead you to a decision that you will be happy with for years to come.
