2023 SEER Regulation Updates for Louisiana Residents

With different climates across the U.S., the north, southwest, and southeast regions have different energy efficiency regulations for HVAC units.

Louisiana is in the southeast, where heavy heat and humidity call for more powerful cooling. As of January 1, 2023, any new air conditioner produced and installed in Louisiana homes must be at least SEER 15 or SEER2 14.3.

To help you understand how these efficiency regulation updates will affect your cooling system, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about the new 2023 SEER rating requirement.

Have a question that isn’t answered below? Call 504-321-2079 or contact us online today and we will be happy to answer! 

Stuart is here when you need us!

request service today

What Are SEER Ratings & Why Do They Matter?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and measures the efficiency of an HVAC system’s cooling output.

The SEER rating is calculated by dividing the system’s cooling output — measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) — by the energy consumed in watt-hours.

A higher SEER rating indicates a more energy-efficient system and can lead to lower energy bills and a reduced environmental impact.

Why Have SEER Ratings Changed?

SEER ratings have changed over time as technology has advanced to allow for more efficient HVAC systems.

The most recent changes to SEER ratings were made as part of the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act, which sets minimum energy efficiency standards for appliances and equipment.

How Is HVAC Efficiency Measured?

The SEER rating is used to determine the energy efficiency of an air conditioning unit and is a key factor in determining its operating costs. A unit with a higher SEER rating uses less electricity to provide the same amount of cooling as a lower-rated unit.

The Department of Energy is improving how HVAC systems are evaluated by introducing M1 testing procedures with a more stringent SEER2 rating requirement. This change paves the way toward improved sustainability and energy efficiency in our homes in the coming years.

What if My HVAC System Doesn’t Meet New Regulations?

Don’t stress — if you purchased or installed it before 2023, you don’t need to take immediate action, as these regulations only apply to newly manufactured units.

However, if you’re planning an air conditioning replacement, these new regulations will affect your system options and pricing.

While air conditioners with higher SEER ratings are more costly to install, you’ll save significantly on your utility bills over time. A new system also runs more reliably, meaning you’re less likely to have to budget for AC repair costs.

Choose Stuart Services for Professional AC Replacement in New Orleans

We know the SEER regulation updates can be confusing, so we’re here to explain how these changes affect you.

Seamless communication is important to us, so we do everything we can to ensure you’re making an informed decision about all your HVAC service needs.

We provide free estimates on replacement units, so inquire today to get started on your AC replacement. Call 504-321-2079 or contact us online today and ask about our financing options!

Stuart is here when you need us!

request service today