Bend, OR experiences cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. During the warm months of the year, you’ll turn to your central air conditioner or heat pump for relief. The newest air conditioning systems and heat pumps now feature SEER2 compliance. Let’s take a look at what SEER2 energy efficiency standards are and how they’ll benefit your comfort and wallet.
What Is Seer2?
SEER2 stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2. It refers to the total amount of heat extracted by the air conditioner or heat pump during the entire cooling season. The Department of Energy requires all air conditioner and heat pump manufacturers to meet the new SEER2 efficiency standards and testing requirements by January 1, 2023. The main change from SEER to SEER2 relates to airflow and external static pressure during a specific system test at the time of installation. All new equipment will have to comply with these new requirements.
Equipment Redesign
Manufacturers must redesign a few parts of heat pumps and air conditioners. All newly manufactured heat pumps need to contain a thermal expansion valve. Air handlers will need to meet new set point requirements. This may also affect homeowners who have a furnace and an air handler that forces the heated air into the network of ducts. If the air handler requires replacement, it will need to meet the new SEER2 standards.
Benefits of Seer2
SEER2 increases the minimum energy efficiency of heat pumps and air conditioners. For homes with air conditioners, this could lead to lower cooling costs during the summertime. Homes with heat pumps will also benefit from the increased efficiency in heat transfer during the heating and cooling seasons.
In addition to installing new energy-efficient air conditioners and heat pumps, we offer furnace installation. We also offer indoor air quality solutions. Our heating and cooling repair and maintenance services boost your comfort year-round. For your convenience, we offer Comfort Club for annual heating and cooling checkups, priority service, and savings on upgrades. To learn more about SEER2 standards or to schedule an appointment, get in touch with us at Mountain View Heating today.
