New Regulations Affect California Homeowners (and Potential Buyers) in 2015
Homeowners may no longer have a choice when it comes to their air conditioner and water heater, as two new regulations of the U.S. Department of Energy take effect in 2015.
Agents and Brokers need to be familiar with the new regulations because the regulations will likely cause homeowners, contractors and manufacturers to make the costly decision to replace current systems with an energy efficient product that meets regulation standards.
The first of the new regulations involves efficiency standards for air conditioning equipment. Effective January 1, 2015, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) standards increase from 13 to 14. For those unfamiliar with SEER, it is a calculation based on how much a unit cools compared to how much energy it uses during a typical cooling season. As the SEER rating increases, the unit becomes more energy efficient. While increasing energy efficiency is desirable for sustainable living, the unit becomes more expensive as the energy efficiency rises. Some manufacturers estimate the average price increase associated with going from a SEER 13 to a SEER 14 will range from 55-66 percent, however, total energy savings will vary based on location, usage and the current rating of the unit.
It is important that Agents and Brokers provide SEER requirements to buyers of residential property that reflect the requirements of the specific parcel under the law.
The second change in regulation involves water heater replacements as an amendment to the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act known as the "2015 DOE Final Rule." Beginning April 16, 2015, the Department of Energy will require that new water heaters meet a higher energy factor rating, whether they use gas, electricity or oil. This will impact homeowners, manufacturers, wholesalers and installers alike. The change will affect some homeowners differently - depending on the water heater's size and fuel source.
Questions will likely arise from homeowners and buyers involving home system requirements so it is important to have an understanding of the new regulations in order to deliver valuable information to your clients.
Source: re-insider.com
|