New 14 SEER A/C and Heat Pump Standards Go Into Effect on Jan. 1, 2015

New Dept. of Energy regulations will be enforced on January 1st!  The minimum SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) standards are meant to reduce the energy used by heating and air conditioning systems.

What will this mean for Texas consumers? Read on!

Beginning Jan. 1, 2015 central air conditioning systems installed in Texas must be at least 14 SEER, up from the older 13 SEER standard. Manufacturers must cease production of all 13 SEER equipment by Dec. 31, 2014. Only 14 SEER equipment can be manufactured after that date.

What happens to all that left over 13 SEER equipment?

The DOE will allow any 13 SEER equipment manufactured prior to Dec. 31, 2014 to be installed for the following 18 months (grace period).

So what does this mean for YOU?

If you have been nursing along an old system that you fear will need replacement soon, or worse – this summer,  now is the time to DO IT!  What’s the rush?

• Although it is less than the new 14 SEER standard, 13 SEER is far better than an 8-10 SEER unit from 10 years ago.
• The newer 14 SEER equipment will cost, on average, $1500.00 more than a 13 SEER due to the materials and technology needed to make it more efficient.
• The new regulation applies to heat pump systems ALL OVER THE COUNTRY. Heat pumps are 60% more efficient than electric heaters resulting in higher demand. That means remaining inventory is anticipated to be fully depleted in no more than 6 months. Less time if contractors place large orders and hold stock in inventory making it unavailable to everyone. Manufacturers and distributors are already selling off their inventories of 13 SEER equipment.

On the plus side, if you are faced with a scenario of replacing an older system with newer, higher efficiency equipment, you stand to benefit from its energy efficiency as shown in the graphic above.

Additionally, replacing older systems with higher efficiency units can offer other benefits, such as improving the resale value of your home, if you plan to sell in the near future.

As always, we’re available here at Daffan Cooling & Heating to inspect your HVAC system and discuss the options available to you. We want you to have peace of mind knowing you’ve made the best decision for your comfort and the value of your home or business.