February 14, 2023
A Guide To Missouri’s 2023 HVAC Regulations
- Duct leakage testing to ensure proper airflow
- Testing refrigerant charge levels
- Testing for proper ventilation and indoor air quality
- Testing for proper temperature and humidity levels
- Testing for energy efficiency
- Testing of electrical components and safety controls
- Testing of fan motors and blades
- Testing of the condensate drain system
- Testing of the combustion process for furnaces
- Using infrared imaging to detect air leaks
The 2023 HVAC regulations in Missouri aim to ensure that heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems meet industry standards and improve indoor air quality. These regulations cover a range of areas, including energy efficiency, indoor air quality, equipment certification, installation and maintenance, carbon monoxide detection, refrigerant management, and compliance.
Why Does the DOE Maintain Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards?
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) maintains minimum energy efficiency standards to help reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy security, and support the development and use of energy-efficient technologies.
The standards apply to various products, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, appliances, lighting, and buildings. By setting minimum energy efficiency requirements, the DOE helps to drive innovation and investment in energy-efficient technologies.
They also ensure that products meet certain energy efficiency standards before being sold on the U.S. market. The goal is to reduce energy consumption, lower consumer energy bills, and reduce the country’s dependence on foreign energy sources.
By establishing and enforcing these standards, the DOE helps create a market for energy-efficient products, encourages manufacturers to develop more efficient technologies, and ultimately helps reduce the country’s overall energy consumption. These standards can lead to cost savings for consumers, as using energy-efficient products can result in lower energy bills.
DOE Standards to Rate HVAC equipment
These standards provide a consistent and reliable method for evaluating and comparing the efficiency of HVAC equipment. They also help consumers make informed decisions when selecting new equipment.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a standard used by the U.S. Department of Energy to measure the energy efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps.
In Missouri, where it gets very hot, air conditioners are important for making homes and businesses more comfortable. During the summer, when temperatures can get as high as 90°F, air conditioners run for long periods of time. This uses a lot of energy and raises energy bills.
The (SEER) helps with this, and it also helps people make smart choices when buying new AC units. SEER is found by dividing the total cooling an air conditioner gives off throughout a season by the total energy it uses over the same time period. The unit will use less energy if its SEER rating is higher.
The minimum SEER requirement for HVAC equipment is 14, the same as the national standard set by the DOE.
AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency)
AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) is a standard the DOE uses to measure the energy efficiency of furnaces and boilers. In Missouri, the minimum AFUE requirement for HVAC equipment is 80, the same as the national standard set by the DOE.
However, systems with a greater AFUE rating may be available, providing improved energy efficiency and cost savings. Compared to a system with an AFUE rating of 78, a system with an AFUE rating of 90 would utilize less energy, resulting in reduced energy costs.
HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor)
HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) is a standard used by the DOE to measure the energy efficiency of heat pumps during the heating season. The HSPF rating provides an easy way for consumers to compare the efficiency of different heat pumps and determine which will be the most cost-effective over the long term.
The minimum HSPF requirement for heat pumps is 8.2, the same as the national standard set by the DOE.
EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio)
EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a standard used by the U.S. Department of Energy to measure the energy efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps during a single, steady-state operating condition.
In Missouri, there’s no specific minimum EER requirement set by the state. However, the DOE has established a national minimum EER requirement of 13 for air conditioners and 8 for heat pumps.
Aside from the EER rating, additional variables that might impact an air conditioner’s efficiency include the environment in which it’s used, the size and architecture of the structure, and the kind of insulation utilized. When selecting an air conditioner, consumers should examine these factors to ensure that it’s suitable for their requirements.
COP (Coefficient of Performance)
COP (Coefficient of Performance) is a standard used by the U.S. Department of Energy to measure the energy efficiency of heat pumps under variable operating conditions. In Missouri, there’s no specific minimum COP requirement set by the state.
However, the DOE has established a national minimum COP requirement for heat pumps, which varies based on the specific type of heat pump.
A higher COP number implies a more efficient system, which consumes less energy to generate the same heat, resulting in lower running costs and a smaller carbon footprint.
New HVAC Testing Procedures
HVAC Compliance Requirements in Missouri
Missouri has several compliance requirements in place for HVAC technicians. The regulations in Missouri are designed to ensure the safety, efficiency, and performance of HVAC systems.
All technicians must be licensed following Missouri State regulations. They also must comply with all federal, state, and local environmental regulations, such as the handling and disposal of refrigerants.
HVAC equipment must meet safety and performance standards set by the state. HVAC systems must also be installed and maintained to meet state and local codes. Certain HVAC systems may require energy efficiency certifications or ratings.
Inspections of HVAC systems may be required by the state or local government. Additionally, HVAC systems must be properly maintained and repaired to ensure efficient operation and safety.
How Do I Find My Current HVAC Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Check the manufacturer’s label or manual. Most HVAC equipment will have an energy efficiency rating listed on the label or in the manual. HVAC equipment must meet the state and federal government’s safety and energy efficiency standards. Regular maintenance and inspections are also required to ensure that HVAC systems operate effectively and efficiently.
If you can’t find the rating on the equipment, you can contact the manufacturer to inquire about it. An HVAC technician from Scott-Lee Heating Company in St. Louis can also help evaluate your system and provide energy efficiency ratings.
Websites and tools can estimate your HVAC system’s energy efficiency based on its make, model, and age. If you have an older HVAC system, it may have a different energy efficiency rating. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient system can reduce your energy bills and improve the indoor comfort of your home.
Conclusion
To ensure compliance with the 2023 HVAC regulations in Missouri, it’s recommended that homeowners and building owners seek the advice of a qualified HVAC professional. The team at Scott-Lee Heating Company can help evaluate existing HVAC systems, recommend upgrades or retrofits, and offer advice on how to best meet the requirements of the 2023 HVAC regulations in Missouri. Taking action now can help ensure the efficient and safe operation of HVAC systems and contribute to a more sustainable future. Contact Scott-Lee Heating Company today for more information.