The way you cool your home is about to change. On January 1st, 2023, a new rating system for air conditioners, heat pumps, evaporator coils, gas furnaces, and single packaged units will go into effect called SEER2.
How SEER2 Impacts HVAC Systems
SEER2 improves upon the previous Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) system by requiring manufacturers to produce more energy efficient products moving forward. This will impact the way these products are manufactured, and what SEER2 ratings your region will require.
For the areas we service, what you need to know is that the North Region and Southeast Region SEER2 ratings are 1 point higher than the previous SEER rating.
The North Region went from 14th SEER to 15th SEER, while the Southeast Region went from 13th SEER to 14th SEER.
You can find more information and a countdown timer to SEER2 going into effect here.
Important Tax Rebate Info
Reported by the NRDC, there are two separate programs you should look out for. The HOMES rebate program, and the HEERHA rebate program. Your eligibility for the HEERHA rebate program depends on income level and whether or not you can lower your energy consumption as a result of energy efficient appliance purchases.
The HOMES rebate program refers to earning cash back in exchange for reducing your home energy usage due to the installation of more energy efficient appliances, including air conditioners. This rebate program also offers cash back for adding insulation, which indirectly helps you use less energy when cooling your home. There is no income requirement for this program, although low-income families stand to receive a higher rebate amount.
The HEERHA rebate program offers point-of-sale discounts for low-income to median-income families in excess of $14,000 per year, specifically pertaining to electrification projects. As far as air conditioning products are concerned, you can earn a rebate up to $8,000 for the installation of a new heat pump.
These rebates are expected to run until 2031.
What Does This Mean for You?
This initiative to help reduce energy consumption can be partially or mostly compensated by the government (up to 80% in many cases), depending on your income level. Many programs are rolling out, though the most impactful savings and benefits come from newly installed systems that follow the SEER2 rating and reduce your energy consumption.
To stay up-to-date on SEER2 changes and how they impact you as a homeowner, come back to our website for coverage on future updates. To install a new energy efficient cooling system for your home, contact us today.