California Title 24, specifically Part 6 (Energy Building Code) states that HVAC systems must be sized correctly using the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Manual J (or an equivalent calculation method) to meet the building's heating and cooling needs.
Title 24 is the building and energy code standard in California, which ensures building construction, as well as system design and installation, reach at least a minimum level of energy efficiency and maintains environmental quality.
Efficiency ratings are regional, so the new HVAC regulations for 2024 depend on where you live. New air conditioners in Northern regions must have a minimum SEER rating of 14. In Southern regions, the minimum SEER rating is 15 for most units.
Title 24 lighting control requirements specify that the luminaires in each area must have controls independent from the controls in other areas. Each room must have a separate, readily accessible manual switch for its lighting, and each control must have on-off functionality.
Title 24 is enforced when you pull a building permit for your project and either have your plans reviewed or building inspected.
Are there any exemptions to Title 24? Yes, there are some exemptions to Title 24, such as certain types of industrial buildings, agricultural buildings, and buildings that are not connected to the electrical grid. However, most buildings in California will need to comply with Title 24.
If you have a set of architectural plans, and you know how to read them, using our Do-It-Yourself tool is probably the fastest and most economical way to get through Residential Title 24 compliance in California.
The Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Program is designed to help identify and fix issues, recognize areas for improvement, and compare the energy efficiency of California's homes.
Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 121(a)1 states that: “Within a building all enclosed spaces that are normally used by humans must be continuously ventilated during occupied hours with outdoor air using either natural or mechanical ventilation.” Minimum required ventilation rate of outside air is ...
Residential Title 24 reports will cost $245 for all projects less than 3,000 square feet and the turnaround time is approximately three to five working days. Projects above 3,000 square feet are typically $395.
What Does the Mandate Call For? Overall, the 2025 HVAC Mandate calls for the phase-out of a refrigerant that is commonly used in today's air conditioners. This refrigerant, known as R-410A, was previously released as a more eco-friendly alternative to previous refrigerants.
If your HVAC system is nearing the end of its life, now is the time to act. By upgrading your system in 2024, you can avoid the price hikes and ensure that you have a reliable and efficient HVAC system for years to come.
Ducted AC Split Systems (or Mixed Ducted and Non-Ducted)
Individuals who purchase and place into service qualifying equipment between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024 may qualify for a non-refundable tax credit of up to $600 per system, subject to an annual limit of $1200 per taxpayer.
Providing Title 24 compliance calculations and documentation is the primary focus of many CABEC Members. But, many members also provide additional energy consulting services.
5 of the International Energy Conservation Code, among the reasons an air or water economizer should be provided are if the individual fan system has a “cooling capacity greater than or equal to 54,000 Btu/h (4.5 ton) in buildings having other than a Group R occupancy.” Group R relates to places providing overnight ...
Title 24 is the minimum efficiency standards, set by the California Energy Commission. When you wish to replace a gas furnace, evaporator coil, or A/C condensing unit – the city or county building department issuing your permit will require duct pressure testing in all Climate zones.
The Title 24 report is required for new construction and major renovations of residential and non-residential buildings in California to ensure they meet specific energy efficiency standards.
U-Factor Requirement
Like SHGC, a lower U-factor (closer to 0) is better. The U-factor includes heat losses through the center of glass, at the metal spacers that separate the panes, through the frame, and through the mullions. CA Title 24 windows must have a U-factor of 0.30 or lower.
HERS ratings are typically done in phases, starting with an initial plan review, then verified in the field pre-insulation, and finally after completion. HERS ratings take multiple hours and generally cost $400 to $1000 depending on house size and complexity.
Duct testing must be performed by an independent, third party, state certified HERS raters and involves pressuring the duct system to a specified level and verifying that the ducts leak at a rate no greater than 6% of the total airflow. A greater amount of duct leakage is allowed for retrofit HVAC work.
In California, Title 24 is triggered whenever a building permit is pulled. So, if you pulled a permit, you need your plans reviewed or building inspected. All new construction projects require compliance with Title 24, as do new additions.
A Title 24 Report is a report that verifies that your proposed residential building design complies with the California Title 24 energy code. How soon will I get my report? Title 24 Reports generally can be done within 1-3 business days, provided that we receive all necessary information from you.
To get a Title 24 certification, you can email us your plans and project information or directly place the order on our website via the Order a Title 24 report button. Once we have your plans, we can get started on your Title 24 report asap.