Survey Says HVAC Contractors & Wholesalers Aware of 2023 Regulations, Unaware of the Necessary Requirements

In a recent survey, Emerson asked HVAC contractors and wholesalers about their knowledge of and preparation for increasing federal minimum SEER/IEER-efficiency requirements mandated for AC systems and heat pumps by the U.S. Department of Energy in January 2023. The survey found that a majority (about 87%) of HVAC professionals are familiar with the regulation changes in 2023 regarding the minimum SEER/IEER central air conditioning and rooftop unit efficiency standards. However, nearly half of respondents (44%) said they have yet to make plans to take action in response to these upcoming regulations.

Similar to last year’s survey, when asked about the requirement to begin using lower-global warming potential refrigerants as early as January 2025, nearly all respondents (93%) were aware of the requirement to begin using lower-GWP refrigerants, and most (61%) claim to have at least a basic understanding of the requirements. On the topic of sustainability, nearly all respondents (94%) said sustainability was at least somewhat important to them, and more than half (56%) said it was of significant importance.

“We are one year away from these new residential and commercial AC energy-efficiency regulations taking effect, as well as alternative refrigerants requirements starting as early as 2025 in California, so it is encouraging to see that a large majority of contractors and wholesalers are becoming more aware of what will be a major change for the industry,” said Jennifer Butsch, director of regulatory affairs, Emerson. “During this time, we recognize that education is a top concern for HVAC contractors and their service people, so as a trusted partner we will continue to provide information and resources for the industry as we work through this transition together.”

For more information, visit Emerson.com.