Appendix M1: A New System of Measurement

For equipment manufactured after January 1, 2023, not only have the minimum standards changed, but a new test procedure is required. This new test method is commonly referred to as Appendix M1, replacing Appendix M in the Code of Federal Regulations. For decades, we've used the classic metrics of SEER, EER and HSPF. Going forward, you'll hear these metrics referred to as SEER2, EER2 and HSPF2.

Navigating Regional Standards

The 2023 requirements apply nationally—unless superseded by a regional standard.

The regional standards apply in the Southeast and the Southwest, and there is a key difference between the national and regional standards when it comes to enforcement. While both had a compliance deadline of January 1, 2023, the national deadline is based on the equipment date of manufacture, while compliance to the regional standards is based on the date of installation. Heat pumps do not have regional efficiency criteria, so the national criteria apply in all states.

Keeping Track of Regional Standards Is as Simple as 3-2-1

Compliance for Existing Inventory
AFTER JANUARY 1, 2023:

Outdoor AC units manufactured prior to January 1, 2023, rated using Appendix M, can be installed in the Southeast and Southwest Regions, if the lowest FTC label rating (coil-only) is at or above the new minimum efficiency requirements on a conversion basis. Ratings based on Appendix M will need to be cross-referenced with the corresponding Appendix M1 values.



Understanding Compliance by Region:
North, Southeast & Southwest

On the Horizon for 2025 - Refrigerant Change

In 2020, a bipartisan senate bill known as the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act was enacted into law. It authorizes a 15-year phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) across a variety of applications, including HVAC. The bill gives the U.S. EPA the authority to prescribe the HFC phase down, with rulemaking underway.

2023 EnergyGuide Label Examples

EnergyGuide Labels are required to list:

WHAT IS CHANGING? Effective January 1, 2023, new DOE efficiency descriptors (SEER2, HSPF2) and updated standard energy efficiency ranges (shown in chart) are required on packaged and split air conditioner and heat pump EnergyGuide labels. The new EnergyGuide label, which began appearing on 2023-compliant products during 2022, shows the SEER2 and HSPF2 efficiency rating specific to your air conditioner and heat pump. The rating, which for a given model can vary depending on the coil installed with the unit, represents the least efficient combination up to the highest efficiency when matched with a furnace or air handler.

ENERGY STAR

What Are the Benefits?
NATE-certified contractors and technicians receive a high ROI. They're considered valuable to employers and preferred among customers. So NATE-certified contractors and technicians are sought out. As such, their salaries are higher than their non-certified counterparts.

 

Homeowners using NATE-certified contractors and technicians receive:

• Higher satisfaction - Thanks to fast service and fewer callbacks and warranty returns
• Increased confidence
• Lower utility bills - Because their systems are operating more efficiently
• Peace of mind - From knowing that their systems are in good hands

What Is the NATE Program & Who Is It For?
Developed by a committee of industry experts, the NATE program is a series of exams that result in either certificates or full certifications and is designed for contractors and technicians of all experience levels. The entry-level tests, Ready-to-Work and HVAC Support are intended for those with less than 12 months of experience. Those who pass the tests earn a certificate, that identifies them as someone knowledgeable and trained in the field. More rigorous exams are required to receive a full NATE certification.

 

Who is Eligible for Full NATE Certification & What Does It Entail?
NATE certification is recommended for contractors and technicians with two or more years of experience. There are two certification testing pathways available: the Certified HVAC Professional (CHP-5) pathway, a series of five exams, or the Core and Specialty exam pathway, a series of two exams. For more information on either of these pathways, visit the NATE website.

 

Are There Training Courses Available to Help with Exam Preparation?
NATE has partnered with lnterPlay Learning to launch NATE Training Academy, which allows contractors and technicians to train for NATE certification exams online when convenient for them. The online training includes 3D and VR simulations that mimic in-field experience. Contractors and technicians can start prepping for NATE's Certified HVAC Professional exam today. Additionally, this fall, training will be available for NATE's Low-GWP refrigeration certification.