What is an AHRI number?

An Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) certified heat pump system confirms the efficiency ratings of specific combinations of an outdoor heat pump unit, indoor heat pump unit, and/or furnace in the case of a dual-fuel system. If any component of your heat pump system changes, the system will have a different AHRI reference number and may have different efficiency ratings. The AHRI number can be understood as a unique ID for heat pump and furnace components that were tested as one system.  The AHRI Certification Program conducts third party testing to confirm performance ratings of heat pumps, and other mechanical systems. The performance ratings for a tested heat pump system are then certified in the form of an AHRI certificate and AHRI reference number.

An AHRI reference number is required when applying for heat pump rebates available through the CleanBC Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate Program. The AHRI reference number for your heat pump system must also be found on the Qualifying Product List. The AHRI number is used by the rebate programs to confirm and validate that you have purchased an energy efficient, and rebate eligible heat pump.  Be sure to have your contractor include the AHRI reference number for your heat pump system, including the indoor unit, outdoor unit, and/or furnace, on your invoice. Check out the sample invoices for more information on what is required on your invoice.

Did you see a building science or energy efficiency term you did not understand? Check out our glossary.