As the world continues to move towards a more sustainable future, the need for efficient products is becoming increasingly apparent. In order to meet this need, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has established the new SEER2 requirements (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) for 2023.
These standards are designed to ensure that all products manufactured and sold in the United States meet the highest energy efficiency standards, so let’s take a look at the new SEER2 requirements and how they’ll be impacting the HVACR industry moving forward.
SEER2 Regulations: Looking Back
The history of SEER2 regulations for HVAC systems dates back to the early 1990s when the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) first introduced the concept of minimum efficiency standards for air conditioners and heat pumps. At the time, the standards were referred to as the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and were designed to ensure that consumers were getting the most efficient, cost-effective and energy-saving equipment available.
Since then, the DOE has progressively increased the SEER rating for residential air conditioners, heat pumps and other HVAC systems. In 2006, the minimum SEER rating was raised from 10 to 13 and in 2015, it was raised to 14. Now, as the SEER2 compliance deadline for 2023 is quickly approaching, and it’s important for all HVAC systems owners and technicians to be aware of the new SEER2 requirements that will dictate what will be available for purchase and install in years to come.
With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the new SEER2 requirements that will become the standard for each geographic region in 2023 and what that will mean for different types of systems.
SEER2 Efficiency Standards
The new SEER2 efficiency standards are designed to improve energy efficiency by 2023, and are estimated to save an estimated 1.4 quads (quadrillion British Thermal Units) of energy each year. This translates to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions of approximately 40 million metric tons annually. In order to meet these SEER2 efficiency standards, manufacturers must ensure that their products are at least 25% more efficient than the 2006 SEER standards.
Here’s a breakdown of the new SEER2 requirements by region next year:
North
- SEER2 rating of at least 13.4 for all residential air systems
- SEER2 rating of at least 14.3 for heat pumps
- Systems and equipment built before January 1, 2023 can still be installed and sold in this region. Any system manufactured after this date must meet 2023 regulations.
Southeast
- SEER2 rating of at least 14.3 for all residential central air systems below 45,000 BTU
- SEER2 rating of at least 13.8 for all residential central air systems 45,000 BTU and above
- SEER2 rating of at least 14.3 for all heat pumps
- Any equipment that does not meet these standards by January 1, 2023 cannot be installed or sold in the Southeast region.
Southwest
- SEER2 rating of at least 14.3 for all residential central air systems below 45,000 BTU
- SEER2 rating of at least 13.8 for all residential central air systems 45,000 BTU and above
- SEER2 rating of at least 14.3 for all heat pumps
To meet these new SEER2 requirements, manufacturers will be looking to employ a combination of efficiency improvements such as improved insulation, efficient lighting, and low-energy motors. As a result, any air conditioner or heat pump purchased moving forward should be more efficient and cost less money to operate, serving both the environmental and financial motivations behind the SEER2 regulations.
The Impact of SEER2 Regulations
The new SEER2 requirements should continue to serve as a positive means to help reduce energy costs, reduce emissions, and improve the overall efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps across the country. SEER2 efficiency standards are expected to have a significant impact on the industry as a whole, as manufacturers will be required to invest in new technologies and processes to ensure that their products meet these standards. As with any changes in the world of energy, this could lead to higher costs and slower innovation, as manufacturers are forced to invest in new technologies and processes in order to remain competitive.
