Understanding the new Efficiency Requirements
The last time you completed an AC replacement at your home you most likely considered the SEER and EER of the unit before purchasing it. EER is an acronym that stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio. Starting with January 1, 2023 there was a significant change to HVAC minimum efficiency requirements across the United States. EER will not be the standard anymore, every AC will now receive a EER2 rating. The new rating better reflects the real-world conditions in which air conditioners and heat pumps are being installed. A higher EER2 rating will result in higher energy savings and therefore lower energy bills, while also leaving a smaller carbon footprint in the process.
How is EER2 Calculated?
The EER is a rating from the United States Department of Energy used to measure the efficiency of air conditioners when operating at peak conditions. The new EER2 rating is designed to maximize efficiency by ensuring that air conditioners and heat pumps can operate with the lowest possible energy consumption.
The Energy Efficiency Ratio 2 (EER2) considers variable temperatures that occur in different climates, providing a more accurate reflection of how energy efficient an air conditioner is over time and temperature variations. EER2 ratings are always calculated with the unit working at an outdoor temperature of 95°F, an indoor temperature of 80°F, and at 50% humidity. The difference in how the rating is calculated are the conditions under which these energy efficiency ratings are measured based on the external static pressure.
The external static pressure is 5 times higher when measuring EER2, resulting in much harsher test to calculate EER2. The new EER2 rating is actually 4.1% lower than the previous EER rating. For example, the previous 12.2 EER is now equal to 11.7 EER2. It is lower because of the higher external static pressure the blower fan has to work against and accordingly expend extra watts.
What is the Difference between EER2 vs SEER2?
Both EER2 and SEER2 evaluate an air conditioners energy efficiency. The difference between the two is the different types of temperature conditions. EER2 measures an air conditioner’s efficiency at the peak of cooling at 95°F. Whereas, SEER2 measures an air conditioner’s efficiency throughout an entire cooling season, with temperatures ranging from 65°F to 104°F.
What is a good EER2 Rating for an Air Conditioner?
Minimum standards vary based on region of the country and system capacity. California is considered part of the Southwest region and must meet higher efficiency requirements than most other states. To meet SEER2 requirements in the southwest region, residential central air systems below 45,000 Btu must have a SEER2 rating of 14.3 (15.0 SEER) and 11.7 EER2 (12.2 EER). Residential central air systems 45,000 Btu and above must have a SEER2 rating of 13.8 (14.5 SEER) and 11.2 EER2 (11.7 EER).
Contact LA Heating and Air
A high EER2 rating can help save you money on your energy bills and is good for the environment as well. Some signs you may need a new HVAC system soon include your current system is older than 10-15 years old, frequent ac repair issues, or an inefficient system you are no longer satisfied with. Give us a call today or contact us online, we can help you determine if now is a good time for AC replacement or if you can wait. We understand the changing regulations may be confusing, but we can ensure your new system will be compliant.
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