Will AC prices increase in 2023?

gillettehvac.com/request-service/(opens in a new tab)

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment will take a big step forward in efficiency and eco-friendliness next year in the U.S.

Two significant changes will affect heat pumps and central air conditioners beginning in 2023. Gillette Heating and Air is here to help you navigate those changes in Utah. Our qualified technicians have your back whether you need equipment maintenance, repairs, replacement, or installation. We offer solutions tailored to your unique comfort and budget needs.

What Is Changing?

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will raise the minimum efficiency standards for air-source heat pumps and central air conditioners starting next year. Systems sold in the U.S. beginning Jan. 1, 2023, must meet those minimum standards.

The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) describes cooling system efficiency. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit is. The number represents the unit’s output during the cooling season divided by the amount of electricity the unit used over that same period.

Currently, the efficiency baseline is 13 SEER for heat pumps and air conditioners installed in homes in the northern half of the U.S. and 14 SEER for equipment in the southern half.

Next year the minimum standard goes to 14 SEER for northern states and 15 SEER for southern states.

Heating Efficiency

The minimum rating for heating efficiency also will increase for air-source heat pumps. The heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF), which describes heat pump efficiency, will increase from 8.2 to 8.8.

The federal government will not require you to replace your older heat pump or air conditioner when the minimum standards change next year. However, if you decide to install new equipment in 2023, you will not be able to buy a 13 SEER model. Your new equipment must be rated 14 SEER at minimum. Your new heat pump also must carry an HSPF rating of 8.8.

How You Can Save Money

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the new standards will result in huge savings on utility costs for consumers. The agency estimates that households with air conditioners or heat pumps collectively will save $2.5 billion to $12.2 billion over the next 30 years on energy bills.

If your air conditioner or heat pump is older than 15 years, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model. New equipment offers more energy-saving features, such as two-stage and variable speed compressors and blower motors.

Single-stage compressors, for example, work at capacity all the time.

Two-stage and variable speed compressors operate at lower speeds and use less energy most of the time. They also can run at capacity when the temperature rises.

Our Gillette Heating and Air experts can help you determine which features fit your lifestyle and comfort needs. We are proud to offer Carrier products for your Spanish Fork home. 

New Refrigerants in 2023

The other significant HVAC change in 2023 involves the kind of refrigerant manufacturers will use in all new air conditioners and heat pumps.

Since 2010, residential cooling systems have contained a refrigerant called R-410a, a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC). This refrigerant has high global warming potential and could harm the environment if it leaks from a cooling system. For that reason, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is phasing down the manufacture and importation of HFCs by 85 percent over the next 15 years.

Beginning next year, new cooling systems will contain a refrigerant with a lower global warming potential. Several manufacturers, including Carrier, will build heat pumps and air conditioners compatible with R-454b. This refrigerant is more environment-friendly than its predecessors but also mildly flammable. We cannot retrofit existing equipment to use the new refrigerant.

Although R-410a will be available for equipment repairs over the next few decades, no new air conditioners or heat pumps will contain R-410a beginning next year.

Purchasing a new cooling system with your preferred refrigerant is all in the timing. If you want a new unit with R-410a, buy it this year. You will start saving money immediately on utility bills by upgrading to a high-efficiency system.

If you prefer R-454b, called Puron Advance in Carrier products, wait until 2023. Our trained professionals can walk you through the pros and cons.

Improve Your Comfort Today

Upgrade the heat pump or air conditioner in your Spanish Fork, UT, home, and start saving money on utility bills. Gillette Heating and Air is ready to help. Call us at 801-465-7760 or request service online.

At HVAC.com, our writers create solutions that put you in control of your HVAC system. Our product reviews and recommendations are researched and backed by real buyers and industry experts, not dictated by our partners.

In 2023, the HVAC industry will make big strides toward sustainability. While the new 2023 HVAC regulations may not have an immediate impact on your home, it’s good to know what to expect.

Heightened energy efficiency and eco-minded refrigerant requirements will soon take effect. We’ll fill you in on everything you need to know.

SEER regulations

SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. It measures an air conditioner’s cooling output compared to the electrical energy it consumes. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the AC.

Beginning January 1, 2023, there will be two SEER-related changes. First, the minimum SEER rating will increase on HVAC equipment.

Currently, new air conditioners must have a minimum SEER of 13 in northern states and 14 in southern states. In 2023, this will change to 14 and 15, respectively.

Additionally, the industry will adopt the SEER 2 standard. SEER 2 is similar to its predecessor in that it measures the total heat removed from a specific space versus how much energy it uses in the process. The required testing conditions will change to better mirror real-life circumstances.

In 2023, HVAC equipment, including AC condensers and heat pumps, will have to display their SEER 2 rating on their packaging.

This change won’t necessarily impact consumers beyond giving you a slightly better estimate of your potential energy usage when shopping for new HVAC equipment.

AC refrigerant regulations

Recently, the industry moved away from R-22 (Freon) towards R-410 (Puron) refrigerant. It’s less damaging to the environment and human health and doesn’t harm the ozone layer.

Next year, the Environmental Protection Agency is likely to require another move to a class of refrigerants called A2L by 2025. A2L has a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than alternatives, but it’s also mildly flammable.

HVAC manufacturers are already designing new technology to accommodate A2L. This includes new technology to store and transport systems with A2L and equipment with automatic shutoff capabilities in case of a leak.

What are the benefits of these new HVAC regulations?

Most HVAC equipment, including central air conditioners and gas furnaces, require a lot of electricity to operate. This creates carbon dioxide emissions, which contribute to global warming.

As the world experiences extreme temperatures due to climate change, we rely on our HVAC systems to stay comfortable more than ever. If we don’t develop new eco-friendly standards and technologies, global warming will only intensify.

Most industry changes, including the 2023 HVAC regulations, move towards more energy-efficient, green products. These will not only positively impact the environment, but you’ll likely see a reduction in your utility bills.

Is there any downside to the 2023 HVAC regulations?

While the impact of the 2023 HVAC regulations is positive overall, they may create minor inconveniences for individuals.

For example, you may need to wait a little longer for parts or replacement units. Local dealers may initially experience challenges obtaining inventory that meets the new requirements.

Additionally, if your older system needs repair, your technician may not be able to access compatible parts easily, as the industry phases out dated technologies.

Should I upgrade my old HVAC system?

If your HVAC equipment is in good condition and fulfilling your heating and cooling needs, there’s no need to buy a new one that meets the new industry standards. Make sure you’re scheduling spring and fall maintenance appointments to keep your system running at its most efficient.

As your system ages, it may be harder to find compatible parts, as dealers stock items that satisfy the new regulations.

When your system’s reached the end of its useful life or the cost of a repair exceeds the cost of a replacement, it’s time to consider new equipment that meets the current standards. 

Connect with an HVAC technician now 🧑‍🔧

Will air conditioner prices go up in 2023?

Are air conditioners changing in 2023?

Which month is best for buying AC?

Are air conditioners getting more expensive?