Like many consumer products that use energy, air conditioners and heat pumps are manufactured to meet or exceed minimum efficiency standards, set by the U.S. Department of Energy. For nearly a decade, that minimum has been 10 SEER (Seasonal Efficiency Ratio).
On January 23, 2006, the minimum will jump to 13 SEER, a 30% increase over the current standard. |
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Who Will This Affect?
The 13 SEER minimum applies to everyone. However– it only applies to new equipment manufactured on or after January 23, 2006. In other words, you can continue to use your current system indefinitely, even if it operates below 13 SEER. However, if you own an older system that often needs repair, or if it is simply time to replace your current system, purchasing a 13 SEER model now will give you two advantages:
- You’ll start saving money on your monthly utility bills with a newer, more energy efficient system.
- You’ll be able to make the switch at today’s costs instead of tomorrow’s.
What Does it Mean for Me?
For many homeowners, a 13 SEER air conditioner or heat pump will represent money saved on each month’s electric bill. Exactly how much you can save will depend on the efficiency of your current system. Here’s a comparison:
13 SEER EFFICIENCY
- Delivers about 23% energy savings compared to 10 SEER models.
- Delivers about 8% energy savings compared to 12 SEER models.
Things to Consider BEFORE You Buy:
The 13 SEER minimum efficiency law is unavoidable. Making an informed
decision now on your home’s air conditioner or heat pump system can save
you money later.
2006 EFFICIENCY CHANGE
- Any new system purchased on or after January 23, 2006, will meet the new 13 SEER minimum requirement.
- Purchasing a 13 SEER system now, at today’s prices, will allow you to start saving on your monthly utility bills, sooner!
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Much like miles-per-gallon
(MPG) for a car, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency
Ratio (SEER) measures the efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the product.
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