Tuesday, January 27, 2015

3 Things You Need to Know about New SEER Regulations in 2015  

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On Jan. 1, new Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) standards went into effect for split-system and single package units sold and installed in the United States. We’ve compiled a list of three things every contractor should know about the new regulations heading into 2015!

An enforcement plan is coming
Although the regional standards went into effect on Jan. 1, an official enforcement plan for the changes won’t be released until a later date. The Department of Energy (DOE) approved an enforcement proposal submitted by industry representatives on Dec. 1. The proposed plan will now face DOE changes and an opportunity for public comment. You can review the proposed plan here.

Now is the time to comply
Though an enforcement plan hasn’t been officially issued, now is the time to make necessary changes to comply with the new regional standards. For contractors in the Southeast, that means installing systems that have a SEER rating of 14 or higher. You may continue selling and installing 13 SEER products manufactured before Jan. 1, 2015 for another 18 months, a period that will expire on June 30, 2016. Any 13 SEER products manufactured after the Jan. 1, 2015 deadline is considered noncompliant and cannot be installed.

Detailed records are essential
To help with compliance, keep detailed records of every product and its manufacture and installation dates. The guidelines of what can be installed are very specific, so these records will help alleviate any potential confusion in the coming months while some older, lower SEER products can still be sold. This information can be kept in any form and will only be requested by the DOE in the event of an alleged violation.


Staying up-to-date on the new regulations and what it means for your business is key! Contact your local Comfort Supply sales representative with questions.

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