2 New HVAC Regulations That You Should Know

These days, keeping up with the news can feel like a full-time job. So we understand if you missed some new regulations in the heating and cooling world. However, if it’s been a few years since you’ve bought a furnace, air conditioning, or heat pump, there have been some big changes.

Here are two new HVAC regulations that you should be aware of.

Phaseout of Freon

Starting January 1, 2010, the production of Freon (also known as R22 refrigerant) is banned by the EPA. The reason is that R22 contains hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which are chemicals that are very harmful to the environment and damage the ozone layer.

Why is this a big change? Because for decades, Freon was the most common refrigerant in heat pumps and air conditioning systems. So if you have an older unit that was installed before January 1, 2010, it most likely uses Freon. Now that access to R22 very limited, it will be much more expensive to recharge the refrigerant of your AC or heat pump. In most cases, it may make more financial sense to replace the unit instead.

New furnace fan efficiency standards

Last year, the Department of Energy (DOE) created a new energy-efficiency standard that affects residential, commercial, and industrial heating systems. Specifically, it measures the power consumption of furnace fans per the amount of airflow delivered. The new standard is called the fan energy rating (or FER). 

The intention of the new regulation is the reduce energy consumption and carbon pollution. It’s estimated that furnaces make up nearly 10% of all home energy use.

The good news is that the new standards do not affect furnaces that are already installed. So if you have an older unit, there’s nothing you need to do. But when it time comes to replace your furnace, all the models available will follow the new FER standards.

HVAC experts in Fredericksburg

As a homeowner, you have more important things to worry about than keeping up with the latest heating and cooling trends and technology. That’s where Robert B. Payne, Inc. comes in. As licensed HVAC technicians, we offer everything you need to keep your home comfortable in every season. For installation or service, call us today at (540) 373-5876.