2023 DOE commercial HVAC efficiency standards

2023 DOE Efficiency Standards — What You Need to Know

The United States Department of Energy has many different responsibilities, but the organization’s primary responsibilities involve managing the nation’s nuclear infrastructure. As one of its many responsibilities, the DOE also creates efficiency standards for HVAC equipment. The newest set of standards, 2023 DOE Efficiency Standards, become effective January 1, 2023.

These 2023 DOE Efficiency Standards are based on research conducted by independent entities. The DOE and other organizations provide these researchers with funding to explore ways to optimize energy consumption. DOE standards primarily apply to HVAC equipment manufacturers and installers. However, they can also impact your business in several ways.

By voluntarily adhering to these standards, you can save money and improve energy efficiency. Additionally, you may be able to access tax credits by designing a system that complies with 2023 standards. Join us as we examine the latest 2023 DOE standards and what they mean for your business.

Notable 2023 DOE Efficiency Standards

Starting on January 1, 2023, HVAC manufacturers must comply with the 2023 DEO Efficiency Standards. This new set of standards includes many different testing, design, and maintenance provisions. The specific provisions vary based on several factors, including:

• Geographic location
• Product type
• Business type/sector

In light of these variations, it is critical that you partner with a reputable commercial HVAC contractor. Such a contractor can assist with repairs, replacing equipment, testing, and unit selection. A great HVAC contractor can also help you navigate the sometimes complex DOE standards. The most notable of these new standards is the adjusted efficiency requirements. Generally, the efficiency of your HVAC equipment is measured in SEERs. The DOE also uses SEERs in its standards.

Starting in 2023, ACs installed in northern states must have a minimum SEER rating of 14.0. The previous threshold was 13.0. Businesses in southern states must have a SEER rating of 15.0 or higher. The old minimum was 14.0 SEER.

At first glance, adjusting the standard by a single SEER may seem like it will make a minimal impact. While this is true on a unit-by-unit basis, the cumulative effects of this change can be significant. According to Energy.gov, the new standards will drastically reduce energy consumption and emissions. They will also save businesses and consumers billions.

In addition to adjusting SEER efficiency rating thresholds, the DOE has also modified testing protocols. We won’t delve into the specifics, but the testing requirements are far more stringent than they previously were. The new requirements are designed to mimic field conditions to gauge a unit’s performance effectively.

Once again, this standard will primarily impact manufacturers and HVAC contractors. These entities must adopt equipment and procedures that align with these testing requirements. However, more comprehensive testing will also yield a better product for your business.

What This Means for Your Business

It is unclear precisely what tax benefits the federal government will offer for adopting the latest standards. However, there are likely to be at least a few tax incentives for modernizing your HVAC equipment. Even if no such incentives are offered, you can reduce your monthly heating and cooling costs.

On that note, you must partner with an experienced commercial HVAC contractor like The Severn Group. Our team of experts can assist you with maintaining your current equipment or installing a new unit. We can also provide additional guidance regarding the 2023 DOE Efficiency Standards.

For more information or to schedule service, contact The Severn Group. We serve businesses throughout Maryland and in the Washington D.C. metro area.