Key Takeaways
- Florida follows updated HVAC efficiency standards, including SEER2 requirements as of 2023.
- Homeowners must choose systems that meet regional minimums or risk non-compliance and higher energy bills.
- Understanding SEER ratings helps you select units that offer better long-term value and performance.
- Working with a licensed HVAC professional ensures your system meets all local and federal requirements.
“If your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system fails or you need an air conditioner for new construction or renovations in Tallahassee, you can’t just go out and install a new one on your own,” says Air Control Heating & Cooling General Manager Tim Hawkins. “Under Florida law, only licensed contractors can install new HVAC systems, and the installation requires a building permit. Additionally, as of 2023, new central and single-packaged air conditioning systems and heat pumps must meet higher energy efficiency standards.”
With more than 50 years of HVAC installation experience in the Tallahassee area, Air Control Heating & Cooling knows all about what’s required to install new AC systems in Florida. Let’s examine Florida’s new energy efficiency requirements and what they mean for your new HVAC installation.
Why Efficiency Requirements for HVAC Matter in Florida
The state’s unique climate, energy demands, and other factors drive the need for higher efficiency requirements for HVAC systems in Florida. Our hot and humid climate necessitates HVAC system operation nearly year-round, especially for cooling. High-efficiency systems reduce energy consumption and help ease the strain on the power grid during peak summer demand. With cooling accounting for a significant portion of household energy use, higher-efficiency systems help owners cut their electric bills. Additionally, the new efficiency requirements help the state meet environmental regulations.
For households, higher efficiency standards help HVAC systems manage humidity more effectively, giving a boost to indoor air quality and reducing the development of mold, which is prevalent in our sticky climate. Advanced technology used to meet the higher requirements is also expected to reduce the wear and tear on HVAC components, which will extend system lifespans and provide homeowners with savings from replacement costs.
What Is SEER & SEER2?
Energy efficiency for HVAC systems is rated by what’s known as the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), which measures a system’s cooling output in British Thermal Units (BTUs) divided by the electrical energy input. Higher SEER ratings indicate greater energy efficiency than lower ratings. For example, an air conditioner with a SEER rating of 14 uses less electricity to produce the same cooling output as a unit with a SEER rating of 10.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) updated SEER in 2023 to better reflect real-world operating conditions by accounting for seasonal temperature variations, cycling losses, airflow resistance, and other factors. Because of this, SEER2 ratings are generally 4-7% lower than SEER ratings for the same HVAC unit. For example, a unit rated 16 SEER might be rated 15.2 under SEER2.
The professionals at Air Control in Tallahassee will tell you that all you need to know is that higher SEER2 ratings with your new HVAC system will provide you with the most efficiency and the lowest energy bills. Just consider that a SEER2 unit rated 20 could be up to 43% more efficient than one rated 14.
What Are the Current HVAC Efficiency Requirements in Florida?
As of January 1, 2023, all new HVAC installations and replacements in the Southeast region, which includes Florida, must meet SEER2 minimum requirements. Split-system air conditioners with a capacity less than 45,000 BTUs require a minimum 14.3 SEER2 rating, while those with a capacity greater than 45,000 require a minimum 13.8 SEER2 rating. Heat pumps nationwide require a minimum 14.3 SEER2 rating, while single-packaged ACs must meet a minimum 13.4 SEER2.
Naturally, you should meet these requirements for HVACs if building a new home or replacing your old air conditioning in Tallahassee. However, for optimal energy and utility bill savings, the professionals at Air Control suggest you consider HVAC systems with SEER2 ratings of 15.2 or higher.
What Happens if You Don’t Follow These Requirements?
If you’re caught installing a non-compliant HVAC system. In that case, you can be fined, and the building inspector may withhold issuance of a certificate of occupancy for installations in newly constructed buildings and renovations. Non-compliant systems do not qualify for federal tax credits, and operation of such systems will lead to much more expensive energy bills over time.
How to Make Sure Your HVAC Meets Florida Requirements
The best way to ensure that your new AC installation meets Florida SEER2 requirements is to work with an experienced and licensed HVAC contractor, such as those at Tallahassee’s Air Control Heating & Cooling. Our technicians are experts in HVAC energy efficiency, and will be glad to steer you towards AC systems with optimal SEER2 ratings. They will also help you take full advantage of rebates, energy-related tax breaks, and other incentives for upgrading to high-efficiency systems.
Is It Time to Upgrade an Older System?
If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to upgrade your HVAC system, consider that older units generally fall well under today’s energy efficiency standards. By upgrading your older, non-compliant HVAC system, you will enjoy lower energy bills, better performance, quieter operation, and a longer operational lifespan. Plus, you can further optimize your energy savings and indoor air quality by including a smart thermostat and other air quality and energy-saving features with your new system.
Stay Cool, Stay Compliant
If your current HVAC system is outdated and failing to meet the state’s updated energy-efficiency standards, the experts at Air Control Heating and Cooling can help you upgrade to an energy-efficient system that keeps you comfortable year-round, while saving you money. To learn more about compliant, cost-saving HVAC options, schedule a consultation with us today at (850) 562-1234.
FAQ: Florida HVAC Requirements
For homes in Florida, the minimum SEER2 rating is 14.3 for most split AC systems. Higher SEER ratings will save more energy in the long run.
SEER2 is a newer, more accurate way of measuring HVAC efficiency, introduced in 2023. It better reflects how systems perform in real-world conditions.
If your system works, you don’t have to upgrade immediately. But any new or replacement units must meet the current SEER2 efficiency requirements in Florida.
No, installing a system below the mandated efficiency standards is not allowed in Florida and could cost you in the long run through fines or lost incentives.
Check the SEER rating listed on your unit’s label or consult with a licensed HVAC professional like Air Control for a complete system evaluation.