Because of inflation and economic uncertainty, many homeowners have been delaying or avoiding HVAC system upgrades. This reluctance now can lead to an increase in repair demand later, putting additional pressure on HVAC companies. Right now, in the last quarter of 2024, is the time to upgrade your HVAC system before prices increase in the new year. Hatfield Heating & Air Conditioning in Sumter SC wants you to know why HVAC prices are expected to increase in 2025.
2023 SEER Rating Updates
The U.S. Department of Energy has implemented new Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) standards, requiring higher energy efficiency for new HVAC systems. Many systems operating before the new SEER standards need to be replaced with newer, more expensive energy-efficient models.
R-410A Phase-Out
With refrigerants like R-410A being phased out because of their environmental impact, consumers and HVAC companies face the challenge of higher costs for servicing older systems or switching to new refrigerants.
The 2023 changes to Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings and HVAC refrigerants can affect homeowners in 2025 in several ways
Although homeowners can expect to see lower energy costs from the new systems, having a current HVAC model beyond 2025 could be expensive for a couple of reasons:
Equipment prices
New equipment is likely to be 15-20% more expensive than current models.
Availability of parts and inventory
It may be difficult for HVAC dealers such as Hatfield to obtain inventory to work on older equipment.
Upgrading now to a new HVAC unit that meets the SEER rating while using new refrigerants could save you a lot of money down the road. Hatfield Heating & Air Conditioning would love to give you a quote on a new system. Contact us today to experience the amazing customer service that has kept us in business for more than 50 years!