FLORIDA 2026 ENERGY CODE
Residential Energy Code Changes

Plan earlier to avoid redesign and permit delays. The 2026 Florida Building Code increases performance stringency, expands testing and documentation, and requires more coordination across the envelope, HVAC system, ducts, ventilation and selected compliance path.

Effective December 31, 2026

The 9th Edition (2026) Florida Building Code.

Six Key Changes for Residential Projects

These are the changes most likely to impact Florida builders, HVAC contractors, architects, engineers and homeowners.

1
More Demanding Performance Path

85% target for simulated performance projects, down from 95%.
R405.3

2
Added Efficiency Credits (Prescriptive)

New Section R407 requires additional efficiency credits.
R407

3
More Testing for Ducts and Ventilation

Duct leakage testing exception removed. Ventilation feature and new report added.
R403.3.3, R403.6.3-R403.6.4

4
Closer Attentionto HVAC Selection

Reorganized Manual Soptions and capacity limits. More equipment documentation required.
R403.7.1 - R403.7.11

5
Stricter Skylight and Glazing Criteria

Lower U-factor and SHGC values for skylights and fenestration in both Florida Climate Zones 1 and 2.
R402.1.2, R402.1.4, R405.5.3.4

6
Updated Forms and Compliance

REScheck removed. Florida forms updated for the 2026 edition.
Chapter 8

2023 vs. 2026 at a Glance

A simple comparison of key residential changes.

Topic 2023 position 2026 direction
Performance path 95% target 85% target
Prescriptive path Existing measures Added credits
Duct testing Performance exception Exception removed
Ventilation No new report Flow test/report
Skylight U-factor 0.75 / 0.65 0.60
Max performance SHGC 0.50 0.40

Applies in Both Florida Climate Zones 1 and 2

The fenestration and skylight changes cover both Florida Climate Zones 1 and 2. Prescriptive and performance path criteria remain distinct.

How Calcs-Plus Can Help

Calcs-Plus provides Florida residential energy calculations, Manual J load calculations, Manual S equipment selection, Manual D duct design, mechanical plans and related building-performance support.

Our team helps builders, HVAC contractors, designers and property owners navigate the 2026 Energy Code requirements with accurate calculations and coordinated documentation for the applicable compliance path.

Energy
Calculations
HVAC System
Design
Permit-Ready Documentation

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the 2026 Florida Building Code take effect?

Does the new code apply to every current project?

Will every new home need solar panels or a smart thermostat?

Will the new code change HVAC sizing?

Is duct testing required under the performance path?

What is new for ventilation?

What information should I send when submitting a project?

Can Calcs-Plus guarantee permit approval?