Furnaces
What Are Energy Star HVAC Systems?
By Tom Moor•January 16, 2025As more HVAC manufacturers transition to higher-efficiency systems in an effort to reduce their carbon footprint and promote a more sustainable future, you may notice a label with the name “Energy Star” on more products you’re considering. But what does the Energy Star label mean, and how does it impact your buying decision? HVAC.com explains what this certification entails to help you make a more informed buying decision.
What Is Energy Star?
Energy Star, a voluntary labeling program backed by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), identifies energy-efficient products and buildings. To receive Energy Star certification, products – including appliances, HVAC systems, lighting, and even commercial buildings – must meet certain efficiency guidelines set forth by the EPA.
The program’s goal is to educate consumers, businesses, and homeowners about energy-efficient options that can help them save money on utility bills while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the environment. HVAC systems that can qualify for Energy Star certification include air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, boilers, ductless mini-splits, and smart thermostats.
How to Tell if an HVAC System Is Energy Star Certified
Look for the Energy Star label on the unit itself or its product documentation. The logo features a blue star and the words “ENERGY STAR” in white letters, often accompanied by a tag or label indicating the system’s certification. You can also check the manufacturer’s specifications online to verify if the system meets the criteria.
What Qualifies as an Energy Star-Certified HVAC System?
HVAC systems earn Energy Star certification through rigorous testing to see if they exceed federal efficiency standards. For example, air conditioners must achieve high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings, while heat pumps must meet specific HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) ratings for efficiency in heating mode. Furnaces and boilers, meanwhile, must exceed certain AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) ratings to qualify. For instance, gas furnaces must have AFUE ratings of 90% and 95% in the South and North, respectively, to qualify.
The Benefits of Buying a High-Efficiency HVAC System
Energy Efficiency
Ensuring your home is comfortable comes at a cost, as the average American family spends about $2,000 annually on energy bills. Energy Star-certified HVAC systems are designed to use less energy while delivering optimal performance, potentially saving a significant amount of money on your utility bills. According to Energy.gov, properly installed Energy Star-rated HVAC systems can save homeowners between 10-30% on annual energy costs – about $140 on average.
High-efficiency gas furnaces can yield savings of around 10%, while electric heating systems can reduce energy use by up to 50%. Although these systems often have higher upfront costs, the energy savings can help offset some or all of the initial investment over time.
Environmental Impact
Since systems with the Energy Star label are designed to lower energy consumption, they help create a more sustainable future. High AFUE furnaces reduce fuel usage while providing the same amount of heat, leading to less energy usage and a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions.
Rebates and Incentives
Many local utility companies and government programs offer rebates or incentives for installing Energy Star-certified systems. The Home Energy Rebates Program, part of the Inflation Reduction Act, may offer significant rebates on HVAC systems. Check for available HVAC tax credits in your state to learn more about potential savings.
Improved Comfort
Many Energy Star units come with advanced features, such as variable-speed motors and smart thermostats, that help maintain a consistent temperature and improve overall comfort in your home.
Is a High-Efficiency System Right for Everyone?
Energy Star HVAC systems may not be for everyone. While Energy Star-labeled units offer several benefits, they come with a higher upfront cost – typically 5% to 15% more expensive than traditional models. This price difference can be a barrier for homeowners on a tight budget. In most cases, a non-Energy Star furnace with an 80% AFUE rating can still keep heating costs relatively low while providing adequate comfort, making it a more affordable option for those who need to stay within budget or live in moderate winter climates.
Additionally, systems like hybrid HVAC setups – which combine a heat pump and a furnace – are often more complex and expensive to maintain which may result in more frequent service visits and higher maintenance costs over time. While Energy Star systems offer long-term energy savings, the increased initial and ongoing costs may make traditional systems a better fit for some homeowners.