IVEC and IVHE Testing Services

Preparing for DOE’s new efficiency standards

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is introducing new regulations that will significantly raise the bar for energy efficiency in large commercial air conditioners and heat pumps. The DOE has finalized updated energy conservation standards that are expected to increase minimum efficiency requirements by approximately 28%-35%. These standards are based on updated performance metrics — integrated ventilation, economizer, and cooling (IVEC) and integrated ventilation and heating efficiency (IVHE) — replacing the legacy integrated energy efficiency ratio (IEER) and coefficient of performance (COP). Compliance with these updated standards will be required for covered equipment manufactured on and after Jan. 1, 2029, subject to federal policy and regulatory timelines.

The DOE has also finalized updates to the federal test procedures, which became effective in 2024 and are mandatory for testing beginning in 2025. Together, these changes reflect a fundamental shift in how heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) systems are evaluated and rated.

The shift to IVEC and IVHE

The DOE’s move to IVEC and IVHE is more than a metric update. The transition is part of a strategic push to account for smarter, more energy-efficient HVACR systems. Traditional metrics like IEER and COP no longer capture the full scope of modern system performance, especially for systems that integrate ventilation, economizers and variable operation. The new standards better reflect real-world operating conditions, helping manufacturers design systems that support consistent efficiency across dynamic environments. For HVACR brands, this means adapting to a more rigorous testing landscape — and delivering products that meet evolving expectations for sustainability and performance.

Testing at UL Solutions Plano HVAC Center of Excellence

Our Plano facility supports testing for large commercial HVACR systems ranging up to 30 tons, including rooftop units, split systems and packaged heat pumps. Our climate-controlled chambers support testing across a wide range of ambient conditions and accommodate full-load and part-load scenarios to meet IVEC and IVHE requirements.

At our Plano HVAC Center of Excellence, we offer comprehensive testing services aligned with the new DOE metrics. We are equipped to handle iterative R&D cycles, allowing manufacturers to rent chambers, test prototypes, refine designs and validate performance under IVEC and IVHE protocols. This hands-on approach supports innovation and helps manufacturers meet regulatory requirements with confidence — well before final certification.

Confidence through expertise

UL Solutions offers strategic advisory services, flexible workflows and real-time insights to help you optimize system behavior. By partnering with us early, manufacturers can avoid costly delays and get their products ready for Air‑Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) certification.

UL Solutions can help you navigate the DOE’s evolving efficiency requirements. Whether you’re refining designs, validating performance or planning for AHRI certification, our experts and advanced testing capabilities are here to support your journey.