HVAC Efficiency Standards Map
Regional Efficiency Requirements
Did you know the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) regulates what kind of heating and cooling equipment you can buy based on where you live? These include furnace, heat pump, and AC regulations.
According to the DOE, the regional efficiency standards are expected to save $4.2 billion for Americans over 30 years, as well as reduce greenhouse gases.
Regional Efficiency Standards Map
The chart below breaks down the minimum HSPF and SEER requirements by region. You'll notice the following efficiency ratings given in the chart:
- SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is the ratio of the total cooling output from a piece of equipment to the energy it uses over time.
- EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) is the ratio of the total cooling output from a piece of equipment to the energy it uses at a specific operating point.
- HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) is used for heat pumps and is the ratio of the total heating output from a piece of equipment to the energy it uses over time.
For more information, read our guide on HVAC efficiency acronyms.
| System Type | North Region | Southeast Region | Southwest Region |
|---|---|---|---|
| Split System Air Conditioners | 13 SEER | 14 SEER | 14 SEER / 12.2 EER (<45k BTU) 14 SEER / 11.7 EER (>45k BTU) |
| Package Air Conditioners | 14 SEER | 14 SEER | 14 SEER / 11.0 EER |
| Split System Heat Pumps | 14 SEER / 8.2 HSPF | 14 SEER / 8.2 HSPF | 14 SEER / 8.2 HSPF |
| Package Heat Pumps | 14 SEER / 8.0 HSPF | 14 SEER / 8.0 HSPF | 14 SEER / 8.0 HSPF |
| Package Gas/Electric Furnaces | 14 SEER | 14 SEER | 14 SEER |
If you have any questions about what heating or cooling products you can purchase in your area, please contact us.
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