Summer spikes in energy bills from increased A/C usage always make homeowners rethink their energy efficiency. However, this also presents a perfect opportunity for HVAC contractors to sell and perform maintenance on energy-efficient HVAC systems. After all, in the near future, energy-efficient HVAC systems will not just be a cost-saving luxury but a legal necessity.
The US Energy Information Administration reported that air conditioning accounted for around 19% of the electricity consumption in US homes, but an energy-efficient HVAC unit can help reduce this consumption by several percent. The Federal Energy Management Program calculated that ENERGY STAR-qualified HVAC units could save purchasers as much as $394 in their lifetime, while the “best available” option could save $1,925 throughout the system’s lifetime.
“This means that HVAC contractors have a significant opportunity to help homeowners boost their efficiency,” says Andrew Parks, Director of Marketing for SmartAC.com.
According to Parks, the benefits of energy efficiency go well beyond just saving money on the monthly electric bill. The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy found that buyers would pay more for homes with higher Home Energy Scores, as reported by the US Department of Energy and its national labs. The Council’s study found that when energy efficiency was included in a home’s listing, participants were more likely to click on the energy-efficient option and less likely to click on the least efficient option. This means that HVAC contractors can save their clients money on their bills and earn them money if and when they sell their homes.
Regulations requiring energy-efficient HVAC systems
“HVAC contractors should also be aware of the regulations regarding energy efficiency in the sector that will determine what they can sell to their customers,” Parks says. “Manufacturers, private labelers, and distributors who sell units that do not comply with these regulations may be assessed penalties for their violations and could also lose business to competitors offering more efficient, cost-saving alternatives.”
For example, the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act and Kigali Amendment go into effect in 2025 for residential buildings and 2026 for commercial buildings, making A2L refrigerants mandatory for most HVAC systems. This class of refrigerants benefits energy efficiency by having a much lower global warming potential (GWP) than traditional high-pressure refrigerants like R410A.
Additionally, in 2026, the Department of Energy’s rules for energy efficiency were put into effect for room air conditioners, better known as window AC units. Essentially, these standards require larger units to integrate variable-speed compressors and will represent energy savings for consumers of between 20% and 36%, depending on the product class.
Encouraging homeowners to maintain their HVAC systems for energy efficiency
Contractors can also use homeowners’ needs and desires to make their HVAC systems more energy efficient as an opportunity to sell products and maintenance services,” Parks explains. “An investment in the energy efficiency of a system will pay off in the long run, thanks to savings in energy bills.”
Some products and services that can help homeowners ensure their HVAC systems are energy-efficient include:
- Clog Removal: Clogs in A/C drains can cause utility bills to soar, not to mention cause health hazards like mold formation or even cause outright system failures. Suggest to clients that they have their systems serviced and drains checked regularly to prevent clogs from forming.
- Water Leak Repair: When an A/C leaks, the unit requires more energy to cool an indoor space effectively. Water leaks can also damage ceilings, walls, and floors, creating more potentially costly repairs. Remind your clients about the importance of calling to have these issues serviced immediately.
- Air Filters and Filter Replacement: When an A/C filter becomes clogged or dirty, it forces the HVAC system to work harder to push the cool air through these filters. Advise your clients to have you change their filter every three months or do so themselves.
- Smart Home Devices: Clients may also see the value in purchasing smart home devices to help manage their A/C’s energy consumption. This technology is beneficial in curbing their energy consumption when they are not home.
The future is energy-efficient HVAC systems
As Parks explains, “HVAC contractors have the opportunity to save their clients money on their monthly electricity bills, increase the value of their homes, and ensure they remain in compliance with relevant regulations and legislation by promoting more energy-efficient systems and maintenance services.”
Now is the time to embrace a more energy-efficient future and help your clients reap the benefits of energy savings.