13SEER Effective January 23, 2006

The Department of Energy (DOE) measures efficiency in numbers called SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). For several years, the minimum efficiency standard for newly-manufactured HVAC equipment has been 10 SEER.

On January 23, 2006, the law will require manufactures to stop producing anything less than a 13 SEER.The Department of Energy (DOE) measures efficiency in numbers called SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). For several years, the minimum efficiency standard for newly-manufactured HVAC equipment has been 10 SEER. On January 23, 2006, the law will require manufactures to stop producing anything less than a 13 SEER.The Department of Energy (DOE) measures efficiency in numbers called SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). For several years, the minimum efficiency standard for newly-manufactured HVAC equipment has been 10 SEER. On January 23, 2006, the law will require manufactures to stop producing anything less than a 13 SEER.

The U.S. charges the Department of Energy (DOE) with managing the country’s use of gas, electricity, natural gas, and other forms of energy. In accordance with their goals, the DOE is focusing on initiating regulations to create air conditioners and heating systems that operate using less energy.

In other words, the DOE gradually raises the requirements for SEER ratings:

• Seasonal
• Energy
• Efficiency
• Ratio

For almost 10 years, the minimum efficiency standard has been 10 SEER. On January 22, 2006, the minimum standard will be raised to 13 SEER. The new 13 SEER standard requires manufacturers to cease production of 10 SEER components on January 22, 2006.

No one can predict how long current equipment rated less than 13 SEER may remain in use, but manufacturers will be prohibited by law to build less-efficient components as of January 23, 2006. The law will ultimately result in a phase-out of less efficient components altogether.

The 13 SEER minimum requirements affect everyone: consumers, HVAC dealers, and manufacturers of air conditioners and heat pumps. The 13 SEER minimum efficiency law is unavoidable.

Q1: How do I know if my current system is rated below 13 SEER?

A: Most units denote the SEER rating somewhere on the external unit, either on the top or sides. If you can’t find the rating on your system, an HVAC professional may be able to help determine the rating.

Q2: Is there anything I can do to make my current HVAC system last longer?

A: Regular maintenance helps all home systems last longer. HVAC systems require new filters that need to be replaced on a regular basis; keeping old filters in place puts undue stress on the unit. See your owners manual or contact a HVAC professional with your questions.

Q3: Why did the Department of Energy change the current standards?

A: The U.S. charges the DOE with managing the country’s use of gas, electricity, natural gas, and other forms of energy. The department is committed to continually reducing America’s dependence on foreign oil and developing energy efficient technologies.

Q4: How long with these mandates stand? What if the Department of Energy passes more efficient standards?

A: It may be helpful to note that the 10 SEER, effective through January 22, 2006, debuted in 1987. Congress mandated 10 SEER in 1992. Therefore, we do not expect additional changes to impact AHS for some time.

Q5: What is a TX Valve?

A: A metering device or thermal expansion valve (TXV) helps to regulate the flow of refrigerant from the condensing unit to the evaporative coil. The metering device can solve some compatibility problems and may also be a sensible (and less expensive) repair for A/C systems.

Q6: What is American Home Shield (AHS) doing to help me through the process?

A: AHS is offering coverage to address the 13 SEER standard in all their contracts. Additionally, AHS will be a trusted resource for 13 SEER questions by providing specialized training to a select group of phone representatives available to assist you.

Q7: I still don’t understand what 13 SEER is. What do I do?

A: For more information, contact AHS directly at 1-800-735-4663 (select the 13 SEER option). You can also obtain more information online through the Department of Energy at www.energy.gov.

Q8: How do I get more information regarding the efficiency mandates with the Department of Energy?

A: You may contact the DOE directly:
By U.S. Mail:
U.S. Department of Energy
1000 Independence Ave., SW
Washington, DC 20585

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