New SEER Standards Impacting HVAC in California
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and it measures how much energy a heating or cooling unit needs to do its job. In 2022, Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and as part of this wide-ranging legislation, new SEER standards were set. These new standards are now called SEER2.
Changes to the SEER2 standards vary by region, but an overview of how it affects Oakley, CA, would be as follows:
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
The IRA also set money set aside to incentivize the switch away from carbon-based energy to electric based. A timeline provided by the US government clarifies that consumers and businesses will be able to access tax benefits from many of the law’s climate provisions on January 1, 2023.
Call 925-625-4963 today if you think you might be in the market to get new, SEER2-compliant HVAC equipment!
How Will We Be Impacted By SEER Changes?
One of the biggest impacts will be the cost of new, compliant equipment. Prices for AC units that meet the new regulations have gone up about 10%.
Fortunately, there are rebates and other financial incentives to help offset the cost of new equipment.
It’s important to note that the old (SEER 1) units are now illegal to install for both residential and commercial clients here in California. Unlike other regions of the country as described by the SEER guidance, any equipment that does not meet these new standards by January 1, 2023, cannot be sold or installed in this region no matter when it was manufactured.
What Is R-454?
Because of the ban on global warming refrigerants, (such as R-410a.) AC manufacturers need to move to a new refrigerant. R-454 and R-32 are the two of the options the industry is transitioning to. There is still some time before the old refrigerants will be completely eliminated, but that day is coming.
Will Fairview Heating & Air Clients Near Oakley, CA Still Have Access To R-410a?
Yes, for a short time more, we will still be able to get R-410a. Unfortunately, the wholesale price has been rising steadily. Just like R-22 did years back. R-454 and R-32 are not in our market as of yet.
Will Fairview Be Phasing Out Certain HVAC Systems This Year?
As of January 1, 2023, we have phased out all of the SEER (1) equipment.
There are still a ton of amazing products available, though. On top of the rebates and incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act, Many of the new machines will cost you significantly less money to operate on a continuing basis!
Contact us today to find out how Fairview can help you best navigate these changes.