Installing an HVAC system is a delicate operation, and doing it wrong can cause serious problems for your home. That’s why it’s important to ensure that your HVAC system meets all the standards: so you know it’s functioning the way it should and that it’s providing maximum comfort and efficiency. How do you know if your system is up to code? Here are a few things to look for.
HVAC Regulations
As of January 2023, your AC must have a SEER rating of at least 15 in Arizona. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio measures how much cooling an AC or heat pump produces for the amount of energy it uses.
For gas furnaces, the minimum Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency rating is 80%, meaning at least 80% of the fuel burned by the unit must be given off as heat and not more than 20% given off as exhaust.
Additionally, if your AC uses R-22 coolant, it’s not up to code. R-22 was gradually phased out for its harmful environmental effects. It was finally banned from production or sale a few years ago and replaced with R-410A and similar, less-harmful coolants. If your system still uses R-22, it’s likely older and could do with replacement to something more efficient and more environmentally friendly.
HVAC Certifications and Standards
How do you know your HVAC installation meets the code? First, make sure your contractor is NATE certified. That means they’ve been trained and tested by North American Technical Excellence to understand how your equipment must be handled. Also check that they’re licensed, bonded, and insured in order to guard against accidents or installation problems.
Finally, make sure they use Manual J to size your system properly. An incorrectly sized HVAC system won’t just fail to heat or cool your home properly. It raises your energy bills significantly, even causing the system damage. Your HVAC contractor must determine the correctly sized unit to provide your home the comfort it needs.
For help ensuring that your HVAC system is up to code, contact us at Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company. We ensure that Yuma systems are not only up to code according to the letter of the law but that they run smoothly and efficiently.
