2023 Air Conditioner Mandates & What Homeowners Should Know

New Mandates Mean You May Spend More on a New AC Unit in 2023

At Western, we know being a homeowner can be a lot to manage so we want to help you make the best decision for you and your family. We put together some information for homeowners about the 2023 air conditioner mandates and what it means if you are thinking of purchasing a new AC unit or HVAC system soon.

What’s the lowdown?

Beginning January 1, 2023, a new air conditioner will cost 20% to 50% more than it did the previous day, December 31, 2022.

Why are prices increasing for air conditioners?

2023 air conditioner mandates go into effect January 1st. The minimum AC efficiency required by the Department of Energy (DOE) will increase by 8-10%.

For Utah, all newly installed AC units must be 14-SEER or higher, if they were manufactured after January 1, 2023.

“SEER” stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This number indicates the energy efficiency of an air conditioner.

These updates mean systems will require less energy to run which will lead to lower monthly energy consumption. However, the overall cost is projected to increase.

The new 2023 efficiency standards, combined with current supply chain constraints, will create an upward trend in pricing throughout the year.

How do the 2023 air conditioner mandates impact homeowners?

If there is a possibility that your AC needs to be replaced soon, you will save money if you buy one before January 1, 2023.

Utah homeowners have a little more flexibility than southern homeowners when it comes to the new requirements. The mandate allows northern contractors, which includes Utah, to sell and install older SEER standard units if the appliance was manufactured before January 1, 2023.

This means Western can install a 13-SEER unit after January 1, 2023, if it was manufactured before 2023 but there will be a limited supply moving forward. Anything manufactured after January 1^st must be a 14-SEER or higher, which will cost more.

How do you know if you will need to replace your AC soon?

If your air conditioner is over 10 years old, then it may be time to upgrade.

Other signs that your AC may need to be updated include high energy bills, inconsistent air flow or lack thereof, hot or cold spots throughout your home, and strange noises or smells.

What are some steps you should take to be prepared for purchasing a new AC unit?

Check your air conditioner’s age
Schedule a consultation
Purchase before the end of the year and save

Step #1: Check your air conditioner’s age

AC units can last a long time depending on the usage, regular maintenance, and their environment. Units over 10 years old are typically approaching the end of their lifespan.

Do you know how old your AC is? Give Western a call and we can walk you through how to find out.

Step #2: Schedule a consultation

If your AC is 10 years old or older, then you should at least get it checked out before the end of the year. Contact a trustworthy HVAC contractor to inspect the condition of your air conditioner and provide recommendations.

Call or text Western for a FREE no-obligation consultation.

Step #3: Purchase before the end of the year and save

If you choose to purchase your air conditioner before the end of the year, you will save money on a new AC unit and still get a high-efficiency system that will keep your home comfortable for years to come.

Western has a supply of AC units and can sell older SEER inventory after January 1^st, although there will be a limited supply moving forward because anything manufactured after January 1^st will need to be at least a 14-SEER which it will cost more.