Yes, there are mandatory federal minimum efficiency requirements for new air conditioning units. These standards were updated in 2023 and are scheduled to change again in the coming years.
Currently, the minimum requirements are as follows:
- Current Minimum (Colorado Springs): The minimum SEER2 requirement for split systems in regions like Colorado is 14 SEER2.
- 2025 Standards: For split-system air conditioners manufactured from January 1, 2025, the Department of Energy has set a new national minimum of 13.8 SEER2.
- 2026 Requirements: New federal standards are expected to raise the bar further. For the southern region of the U.S., the minimum efficiency standard for new air conditioners and heat pumps is expected to reach 15 SEER2.
It is important to note that these ratings use the M1 testing procedure, which accounts for external static pressure in typical home ductwork. This results in more accurate, real-world efficiency measurements compared to the older SEER standard. While you are not required to replace an existing functional unit, any new installation must meet the federal minimums in effect at the time of manufacture.
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