The HVAC industry has adopted the SEER 2 standard to measure the energy efficiency of all refrigeration units, with the exception of portable and window air conditioners. The seasonal energy efficiency index (SEER) is calculated by dividing the amount of energy used by a unit in one hour by the number of BTUs (British thermal units) of heat it has removed from the air in the same period. Ductless heat pumps and minisplits have two different energy efficiency measures, as these units provide heating and cooling. The cooling efficiency is measured in SEER, while the heating efficiency is measured in the seasonal heating performance factor (HSPF).The new laws will change both the minimum SEER and the minimum HSPF, but for now, we'll focus on SEER.
Before calculating SEER, all new units must undergo rigorous tests to determine their energy consumption under different conditions. Specifically, they operate at different humidity levels and temperatures ranging from 60 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The new SEER2 system works in a similar way, but it increases the amount of static pressure at which the unit is tested. Static pressure refers to resistance to air flow and is important because the higher the pressure, the harder the HVAC fan will have to work to circulate air throughout the duct system. This means that the air conditioner or other HVAC unit will need to run longer and consume more energy to completely cool the house. With the old SEER system, units were tested with a static pressure of 0.1 inches, while the new SEER2 system uses 0.5 inches of static pressure.
This is an important change, as few, if any, air conditioning systems have a static pressure as low as 0.1 inch. Problems such as dirty ducts, air leaks, clogged air filters, and closed or clogged vents can contribute to increased static pressure. By testing units at higher static pressure, the new SEER2 system should be able to more accurately estimate energy efficiency and better reflect real operating conditions. With this system, all refrigeration units in the northern part of the country must have 13.8 SEER2 (equivalent to 14 SEER). The new requirement in the southern half of the country is 14.3 SEER2 (equivalent to 15 SEER).
However, in the Southeast and Southwest regions, this requirement applies only to air conditioners and split heat pumps of 45,000 BTU or more; for values lower than 45,000 BTU, the requirement is still 13.8 SEER2 or 14 SEER. As an expert in SEO optimization, I can tell you that understanding these new requirements is essential for anyone in the HVAC industry. Not only will it help you stay compliant with regulations but it will also help you make sure your customers are getting an energy-efficient product that meets their needs. The new SEER2 requirements are designed to ensure that all refrigeration units are as energy-efficient as possible. By testing them at higher static pressures than before, they can more accurately reflect real-world conditions and help reduce energy consumption. This is good news for both consumers and businesses alike. If you're in the HVAC industry or are considering entering it, make sure you understand these new requirements so you can stay compliant and provide your customers with an energy-efficient product that meets their needs.
