Understanding 2023 HVAC Energy Efficiency Changes
Starting in 2023, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is updating energy efficiency testing standards to use a new M1 testing method. This method was developed to better represent actual field conditions and will be reflected in new ratings of SEER2, EER2, and HSPF2.
Ratings Testing Changes Include:
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Minimum Static Pressure has increased.
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Increased Fan Power Input on AC/Coil-Only testing.
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Increased HSPF testing conditions, lowering the zero-load testing temperature from 60F to 55F.
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Increased consideration for Variable Capacity systems to reflect their enhanced capabilities.
2023 Split System Air Conditioners Regional Standards
*10.2 EER if SEER >= 16.0 SEER
**9.8 EER2 if SEER2 >= 15.2 SEER
2023 Split System Heat Pump National Standards
The cumulation of these changes will be:
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7-8% increase over previous minimums.
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300 Million KWH saved over 30 years for consumers.
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Savings of $38 Billion in utility costs.
For manufacturers, this presents some challenges:
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70% of current products do not meet new minimum standards.
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All products will require re-testing with new standards.
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Some previous standard products may not be sold on or after January 1st, 2023.
What can we sell and where?
It is a violation to knowingly sell to and/or install for an end user a central air conditioner subject to regional standards with the knowledge that such product will be installed in violation of any regional standard applicable to the product (10 CFR 429.102(c) Violations of regional standards)
The DOE will be enforcing regional standards. If an installer is in violation of one of these new standards, they will have to replace the non-compliant AC unit(s) at no cost to the consumer. Manufacturers and distributors may be unable to continue doing business if they face routine violations.
South Region - Air Conditioners
Air conditioners manufactured prior to January 1, 2023, may continue to be sold and installed if they meet the new 2023 M testing standards according to the coil-only indoor unit match. Use the FTC label to verify compliance.
South Region - Heat Pumps
Heat pumps manufactured prior to January 1, 2023, may continue to be sold and installed if they meet the new 2023 M testing standards according to the coil-only indoor unit match. Use the FTC label to verify compliance.
