DOE Room AC Efficiency Standards Now in Effect
The U.S. Department of Energy's updated energy efficiency standards for room air conditioners took effect in 2026. The standards establish higher minimum efficiency requirements for window units. The standards, finalized earlier this year, are projected to save consumers $25 billion over 30 years of equipment shipments. Since implementation, all window AC units sold or installed must meet the new minimums.
Contractors who sell, install, or service window units face compliance violations. This applies if they handle equipment that doesn't meet the new efficiency thresholds.
Check with your suppliers to confirm that any window AC units you stock or order meet the current DOE efficiency minimums. Do this before selling or installing them.
Key Takeaways:
- DOE room AC efficiency standards are now in effect as of 2026
- New minimums projected to save consumers $25 billion over 30 years
- Window units sold or installed must meet updated efficiency requirements
