The Department of Energy Has Upped Furnace & AC Standards Once Again
New air conditioners and furnaces manufactured in 2015 will be more energy efficient. That’s the goal of the Department of Energy (DOE). Starting this year, the type of heating and cooling system you can buy will be different for Ohio and Kentucky homeowners.
What Are the New Furnace and Air Conditioner Standards?
The DOE has increased the minimum standard once again from 13 SEER to 14 SEER. What is a SEER rating anyway? A furnace or air conditioner is rated by SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). The higher the SEER number, the more energy efficient the furnace or AC. These standards have not changed since 2006 when they moved from 10 SEER to 13 SEER. Now, the DOE wants manufacturers to make products that are even more efficient. The main difference this time is that instead of one standard for the entire country, the DOE is varying standards by region.
What Does This Change Mean for Homeowners?
Actually, you don’t have to worry too much about doing anything different when you purchase a new furnace or air conditioner. The HVAC experts at Schneller Knochelmann Plumbing, Heating & Air know which equipment qualifies and for how long. This really affects the furnace and air conditioner manufacturers more than anyone else. They will be responsible for changing the systems to meet the new standards. All you really need to know is that your new furnace or AC will be more energy efficient and that will save you money on your energy bills.
The Schneller team is dedicated to educating you on important changes in the heating and cooling industry. If you have any questions about these new standards, or are in need of a new furnace or air conditioner, please call us. We can help you with that!
How Do You Know When to Replace Your AC or Furnace?
Are your furnace and air conditioner getting old? How do you know if it’s time to replace it? The talented heating and cooling technicians at Schneller have created a handy checklist that will help you determine if your old units have some life left in them, or if it’s time to call us to discuss replacement options. Click the button below to download our You Be the Tech Check checklist.
