If your home HVAC system is on the older side or you are considering getting a new one soon, replacing it now before the end of the year could save you a lot of money in two ways:
- You’ll avoid potential HVAC price increases in 2026.
- You’ll enjoy the savings associated with higher-efficiency equipment.
Price Increases in the HVAC Industry
Price changes in the heating and cooling industry aren’t unusual. In fact, because the U.S. Department of Energy revises its SEER guidelines, prices rose in 2023 for air conditioners and heating systems. The Department of Energy uses SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) ratings to evaluate heating and cooling equipment efficiency. The higher the rating, the more efficient the system is. These ratings ensure all systems meet minimum standards of effectiveness and efficiency. They also help consumers compare and evaluate different systems and make good purchasing decisions.
Most recently, the testing parameters were updated so what was once tested as a 20 SEER system is now considered a 19.2 SEER2 system. In 2023 Texas started phasing out low SEER equipment to establish a higher efficiency standard in new construction and existing homes. At the same time, a new SEER ratings system, called SEER2, went into effect. It uses different testing conditions and is a more accurate way to evaluate HVAC efficiency.
Because of these changes, HVAC manufacturers redesigned HVAC components to meet the new SEER2 requirements. As a result, homeowners experienced HVAC price increases in 2023. In 2022, Forbes estimated that it could be by as much as 30%.
In 2025, new refrigerant rolled into the market. Due to the government mandates to phase out 410A in much the same way as they required years ago for R-22 refrigerant. However, this time manufacturers rolled out more than one type of refrigerant into the market. As of December 31st, 2025 it will be against the law for contractors to install units that use 410A refrigerant.
Pro tip: If you are offered a less than SEER2 estimate, BUYER BEWARE. As of January 2026, it is against Federal law to sell or install this equipment. This law was originally supposed to already be enforced, however due to delays in R&D and supply issues the government rolled the mandate out until January of 2026. Take advantage now and get the new equipment early at better prices.
Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems Save Money
There’s another great reason to upgrade now, especially if your current HVAC system is older than 10 years or out of warranty. Replacing an old system won’t just save you from having to pay more upfront; over time, it’ll also save you money because new HVAC systems cost less to operate.
New HVAC models are much more energy-efficient than older ones. They use less energy and provide more heating and cooling power, even compared to models that are only 5 to 10 years old.
Consider two-stage equipment or inverter equipment vs. single-stage equipment when replacing a system:
- Dual-stage runs at one stage for a certain amount of time before kicking into the second stage.
- Inverter ramps up slower until it reaches the supply of cooling requested by the thermostat.
The single stage equipment does not ramp up slowly nor run at any percentage under 100% (costing more than usually necessary). In addition, the maximum amperage on a 20-SEER inverter unit is 35. In contrast, a single-stage system or a two-stage system may have maximum amperage of closer to 50. The higher the amperage demand, the more it costs to run.
Call CW Service Pros for HVAC Advice and Installation Services
If you’ve been planning to upgrade or replace your current HVAC system, either now or in the next couple years, there are solid reasons to go ahead and get it done now.
For expert advice on choosing a heating and cooling system, plus professional HVAC installation, call CW Service Pros. We can help you choose the best unit for your home and your family’s needs and install it on a day that is most convenient for you.