Get CA NRCC-MCH-01-E 2015

Title 24 was published by the California Building Standards Commission and applies to all buildings in California, not just state-owned buildings.

SEER, EER and HSPF Requirements in California For example, in California, a split-system AC with a certified cooling capacity of less than 45,000 British Thermal Units per Hour (Btu/hr) must have a minimum SEER2 rating of 14.3 and an EER2 rating of 11.7 or 9.8.

Packaged air-cooled HVAC equipment from 5.4 to 11.1 ton capacities must have a minimum Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) of 11.2, and minimum Integrated Energy Efficiency Rating (IEER) of 12.9.

For example, in California, air conditioners must have a minimum SEER of 14. A higher efficiency unit, even a 25 SEER, does not blow cooler air than a lower unit. The higher rating means that the air conditioner will provide the same cooling power for less money.

By law, all new furnaces must have an AFUE rating of 78% or higher. So anything above that is technically “good.” However, to be ENERGY STAR certified, your furnace must have an AFUE rating of 85-90% or higher.

The California Building Standards Commission created Title 24 in 1978. Title 24 strives to: Ensure that building construction and system design and installation achieve higher energy efficiency. Preserve environmental quality. Create minimum energy-efficiency levels for new residential and nonresidential buildings.

On January 1, 2023, the efficiency rating for air conditioners in the southwest region increased from 14 SEER to 15 SEER (or 14.3 SEER2). This means that all air conditioners installed in California must meet or exceed that efficiency rating starting this year. Heat pump and furnace ratings also increased.

Title 24, part 6 California Energy Code is the Energy Efficiency Standards for residential and nonresidential buildings, new construction, remodels and additions. Energy Code Ace is a new site developed by the California Statewide Codes and Standards Program here to help you meet the requirements of Title 24, part 6.