Related Sites
- California's Energy Efficiency Standards
- U.S. Department of Energy's Building Energy Codes Program
- California Energy Commission Energy Code Online Training
- The 2008 Energy Code, in effect on Jan 1, 2010
The Background
A few years ago, California came dangerously close to shutting down entire power grids across the state.
The problems were multifold:
- Too much power being used
- Existing power-generation capabilities strained to the limit
- Politically unacceptable to build nulcear power plants
- Alternate power-generation methods could not sustain even a fraction of the present and future needs
The California Legislature formulated a way to require Homeowners to pay the cost of all upgrades, thus relieving the State of massive debts necessary to achieve their goal.
The Energy Code was enacted, which changed the face of Air Conditioning forever.
The New Laws
Higher-SEER equipment is now required for the following:
- All replacements of major components
- New installs
- Manufacturers must meet Higher-SEER specs for ALL new equipment
- Penalties are substantial to ensure compliance
Advertisements claiming otherwise are misleading at best.
The Consequences
- Cost is higher - dramatically higher, since same-SEER parts are not legally available
- It is necessary to replace the entire system - condenser, lineset, furnace, coil and in most cases the ductwork
- The new cost is usually in the $7,000-$10,000 range (an old-style condenser change-out was $1200-$1500)
Financing
Consumers normally experience "Sticker Shock" at the prospect of replacing their system.
If the costs of a new system are not affordable, financing must be considered.
Financing options available:
- Your Bank
- Your Credit Union
- Loans (or gifts) from relatives
- Credit card advances
- Energency use of an IRA, 401K or KEOGH
- Your Contractor
Overall Comments
- Overall benefit: The Homeowner will have a top-notch system with state-of-the-art technology which should save them money in the long run
- As always, check out your Contractor with the State Contractor's License Board