Last updated: October 5, 2026.

For years, shoppers looking for efficient central air conditioning could use the familiar ENERGY STAR label as a quick filter. In 2026, that changed.

What Exactly Changed?

ENERGY STAR says its central air conditioner specification was sunset in February 2026. At the same time, the ENERGY STAR heat-pump program continues under its current specification, including Version 6.2 criteria.

So a shopper comparing a straight central AC system and an air-source heat pump may now see different labeling paths even though both products provide cooling.

The Missing Label Does Not Make a Unit “Bad”

ENERGY STAR is a voluntary efficiency recognition program. The end of one product specification is not a recall and does not mean existing central air conditioners suddenly became unsafe or unusable.

It also does not remove the need to compare efficiency. Instead of asking only “Does it have an ENERGY STAR logo?” ask for the specific efficiency ratings and the complete matched-system information for the indoor and outdoor equipment.

What to Compare on a 2026 Central AC Quote

• SEER2: a seasonal cooling-efficiency measure. Higher values generally indicate greater seasonal efficiency, but cost and climate still matter.
• EER2: another cooling-efficiency metric that can be useful when comparing performance under specific conditions.
• Matched components: the outdoor unit, indoor coil, blower, and other major components should be designed and rated to work together.
• Sizing: bigger is not automatically better. Oversized equipment can cycle poorly and may create comfort or humidity problems.
• Duct condition: an efficient machine connected to leaky or poorly designed ducts can still deliver disappointing results.
• Installation details: refrigerant charge, airflow, drainage, electrical work, and commissioning matter to real-world performance.

Why Heat Pumps Still Deserve a Look

Air-source heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, and ENERGY STAR continues to maintain a heat-pump specification. Current criteria include seasonal efficiency requirements and additional requirements for products designated for cold climates.

That does not mean a heat pump is automatically the best choice in every home. Fuel prices, winter temperatures, electrical capacity, ductwork, backup heat, equipment cost, and local rebates can all affect the decision.

Ask for the Full Installed Price

Efficiency comparisons can become misleading when one quote excludes items another quote includes. Ask whether the price covers permits, electrical changes, thermostat work, line-set work, drain modifications, duct repairs, removal of old equipment, and warranty registration.

If one system costs substantially more, ask how much of the premium is for higher efficiency and how much is for other equipment or installation changes.

Do Not Mix This Up With the Refrigerant Transition

The ENERGY STAR central-AC sunset is separate from the ongoing refrigerant transition. Refrigerant rules affect which refrigerants can be used in new systems and how legacy equipment is serviced. ENERGY STAR labeling is an efficiency-recognition issue.

Keeping those two topics separate makes it easier to understand a contractor’s recommendation.

Related reading: What 2026 refrigerant rules mean for existing HVAC systems · A simple HVAC maintenance checklist · Home-energy rebates and incentives in 2026

The Bottom Line

In 2026, a central AC shopper cannot rely on the ENERGY STAR label the same way as before because EPA ended that specification. Compare the actual ratings, system match, sizing, installation scope, warranty, and operating needs. If you are also considering a heat pump, compare both options on total installed cost and how each will serve your home year-round.

Sources: ENERGY STAR — Central Air Conditioners Sunset; ENERGY STAR — Heat Pump Key Product Criteria.