2023 SEER Regulation Changes & How They Affect Indiana Homeowners

SEER ratings measure the efficiency of HVAC systems. On January 1, 2023, new efficiency regulations raised the SEER minimum across the U.S.

While you don’t have to take immediate action, it’s important to know who sets the SEER regulations, what the 2023 regulation changes are, and how they could affect you.

Who Controls SEER Regulations?

The Department of Energy is responsible for setting the SEER regulations. These regulations are set for the HVAC manufacturers, meaning the changes trickle down and affect homeowners. Each region has its own minimum SEER rating, depending on the climate.

Your HVAC system’s SEER rating is a measure of its efficiency. A more efficient HVAC system will save you money and keep you more comfortable, so updates to these regulations are often positive for homeowners. However, the SEER rating minimums aren’t updated too often — the last regulation change occurred in 2015.

What Are the New Regulations?

There are a few new regulations for HVAC systems that homeowners should be informed about.

The 2023 changes require more rigorous testing for newer HVAC units to ensure they meet the new standards.

There are also some changes to the metric labels used for these regulations:

• The Seasonal Energy Efficiency (SEER) is now SEER2.
• The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is now EER2.

Below are the new regulations for the Northern region, which includes Indiana:

• Air conditioners must be rated 13.4 SEER2 (14 SEER) or higher. Previously the minimum rating was 13 SEER (12.4 SEER2).
• Furnaces must have an Annualized Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) of 81% or higher for northern, southern, and southwestern regions. Previously, 90% AFUE was required for the northern region, and 80% AFUE was required for southern and southwestern regions.

You’ll be able to find these metric labels on your heating or cooling unit on a yellow label.

What if My AC Has a SEER Lower Than 14?

There’s no need to stress if your air conditioning system is rated lower than 14 SEER.

The Department of Energy regulation changes for HVAC systems applies to HVAC manufacturers, but these changes don’t require any immediate action from homeowners.

These changes will only apply to you if you install a new air conditioning system in 2023 or later.

Choose Northern Comfort Systems for AC Replacement

At Northern Comfort Systems, we want to keep our clients informed about changes in the HVAC industry, including new HVAC efficiency regulations.

If you need air conditioning replacement, our team will ensure that your new AC unit meets SEER2 regulations, and we offer financing options to make the process easier.

You’ll have an efficient cooling system that will keep your family comfortable no matter how hot it gets.

Contact us online or call (555) 555-5555 today to schedule AC replacement in Indianapolis, Anderson, Terre Haute, or Muncie.