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2023 HVAC SEER Rating Changes You Need To Know in Michigan

Homeowners nationwide are grappling with rising utility bills, polluted skies, and decreased indoor air quality. These issues and many other factors have prompted the U.S. Department of Energy to update SEER standards. The goal is to help homeowners reduce their environmental footprint, utility bills, and the pollution generated by heating and cooling activities.

Because the updated standards went into effect in January 2023, homeowners across Southeast Michigan must note the changes. 

Do I Need To Make Immediate Changes?

First, to comply with the updated standards, there is no need to rush out and buy a new air conditioner, heat pump, furnace, etc. It's one of the most common questions we receive, and as long as your current system is operational, there is no requirement for you to upgrade the unit to comply with the new standards. However, when it's time to replace your central air conditioner, gas furnace, electric furnace, etc., the new system must comply with the governing regulations.

Energy-Efficient Measurements Broken Down

The U.S. Department of Energy issues energy-efficiency ratings to help homeowners determine their home's most energy-efficient, ecologically friendly HVAC system. These measurements include:

• SEER: The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) measures the energy usage of heat pumps and air conditioners. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit.
• HSPF: The Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) measures the BTUs generated by heat pumps and divides this by energy used to determine efficiency. A unit with an HSPF higher than 10 is considered highly efficient.  
• AFU: The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) measures the percentage of fuel converted to heat energy by your furnace, boiler, etc. An AFUE of 97% or higher is considered highly energy-efficient. 

How Will These Changes Affect You?

As of January 1, 2023, homeowners in Southeast Michigan seeking to purchase replacement heating and cooling systems must choose systems that comply with the following standards:

• Split systems amd central air conditioners must have a 14 SEER rating, an increase from 13 SEER under current regulations
• Heat pumps must be a minimum of 15 SEER for cooling and 8.8 HSPF for heating; this is an increase from the previous 14 SEER and 8.2 HSPF requirement
• Furnaces must meet 81% AFUE, slightly higher than the last 80% AFUE requirement

Is It Time To Upgrade?

If you have an older air conditioner, heat pump, furnace, boiler, etc., upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model can significantly reduce your utility and repair bills. Plus, many state and federal rebates and incentive programs can reduce your replacement costs.

However, suppose you have a relatively newer model in your home. In that case, the increased efficiency and savings are likely to be minimal, and it's a good idea to wait before considering a replacement for your home.

Choose AAA Service Network for Your Next Heating and Cooling Replacements

At AAA Service Network, our certified and insured HVAC specialists will help you navigate your options to determine the ideal HVAC system for your home. We are dedicated to your comfort and will always go the extra mile to give you the best service in Southeast Michigan. 

Contact AAA Service Network at (517) 548-5040 to learn more about SEER ratings and the top-quality heating and cooling systems we recommend for our clients in Southeast Michigan.