Title 24 Compliance Made Simple: A Homeowner's Guide (2026)
Published 2026-05-27 | Author: Moe Diab, Aerosphere Electric (CSLB C10 + C20 #1108650)
Quick summary: California Title 24 is the state's energy efficiency code. Every HVAC installation, addition, and major renovation in Orange County must comply. Here is what every homeowner needs to know in plain English.
What is Title 24, In Plain English
Title 24 is California's building energy efficiency standards. It dictates minimum efficiency for:
- HVAC equipment (SEER ratings, AFUE for furnaces)
- Insulation values (attic, walls, floors)
- Windows (U-factor, SHGC)
- Lighting (LED requirements)
- Water heating
- Ductwork (sealing requirements)
- Solar requirements (new construction only)
California updates Title 24 every 3 years. The current edition is 2022 (Part 6), which all 2026 work must comply with.
Title 24 for HVAC Installations
When you install or replace HVAC in Orange County, Title 24 requires:
- Minimum SEER 14.3 for AC (varies by climate zone - OC is mostly Zone 6)
- Minimum 80% AFUE for furnaces
- Refrigerant changeout to R-410A or R-454B (R-22 banned)
- HERS testing required for new ducts or major duct modifications
- Duct leakage testing for new installations
- Refrigerant charge verification
- Permit + inspection
What HERS Testing Costs (And Why It Matters)
HERS (Home Energy Rating System) testing is a third-party verification that HVAC installations actually meet Title 24. Costs in Orange County 2026:
| Test Type | Cost | When Required |
|---|---|---|
| Duct leakage test | $225-$385 | New ducts or major duct modifications |
| Refrigerant charge verification | $165-$285 | New AC or heat pump installation |
| Whole-house HERS rating | $485-$785 | New construction, major remodel |
HERS testing is performed by independent certified raters - not your contractor. This prevents conflicts of interest.
Common Title 24 Mistakes That Fail Inspection
- Using R-22 refrigerant - Banned since 2020
- SEER below current minimum - varies by climate zone
- Skipping HERS testing - inspectors will catch this
- Unsealed ducts - new ducts must meet leakage limits
- Missing condensate drainage protection for attic installations
- Incorrect refrigerant charge - must be within +/- 5% of manufacturer spec
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Cite This Guide
Aerosphere Electric. (2026, May 26). Title 24 Compliance Made Simple: A Homeowner's Guide (2026). Retrieved from https://aerosphereelectric.com/title-24-compliance-made-simple-homeowner-guide.html