Meeting government standards
The latest craze of "going green" and "environmental friendliness" has brought on drastic changes in the way the government is looking at future technology. The standards and requirements are continuing to evolve, lending themselves towards less pollution and safer environments to live in. This is also applicable to the air conditioning and heater pump world.
Higher SEER Requirements
Many consumer products that are usuing energy these days are manufacturered to meet certain standards put in place. This applies to air conditioning and heat pumps, which must meet the minimum efficiency standards set by the United States Department of Energy. The ongoing Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ration (SEER) was previously held at 10:1 for minimum efficiency, but in 2006 this was changed to reflect a higher ratio - SEER 13.
Who Was Effected By The Changes?
There are many people who had their air conditioning equipment and heat pumps before the changes to the SEER ratio and that's ok. The SEER 13 only applies to any new equipment manufactured, after January 23, 2006. Ultimately, anyone who had equipment prior to that can still continue to use their equipment as long as they would like. The problem arises when there is a requirement for upgrade or new equipment. Essentially, you are required to purchase a system that abides with the new standards, the SEER 13.
What Does Higher SEER Mean?
For a number of homeowners, a higher SEER rating is a great thing. This essentially puts in higher standards for the manufacturers to follow. Ultimately, this means newer air conditioners or heat pumps will not only be environmentally safer, but also more efficient and increased performance - all translating to lower costs and bills. The exact details on savings all depend on your current setup and system. For example:
- 13 SEER delivers about 23% energy savings compared to 10 SEER models
- 13 SEER delivers about 8% energy savings compared to 12 SEER models
"Another change you need to be aware of is the phase out of R-22, the refrigerant most commonly used in today's air conditioners and heat pumps. By 2010, all new air conditioners and heat pumps will be required to use non-ozone-depleting environmentally sound refrigerant, such as Puron Refrigerant. (Carrier has been supplying Puron refrigerant-based products for over 10 years and is already fully compliant with the 2010 mandate.) This phase out has been mandated in an effort to help protect the Earth's ozone layer. By making the change to Puron Refrigerant now, you can protect yourself from the potentially higher future costs of servicing an air conditioner or heat pump that uses R-22" - Carrier