Erie Climate Zone & Energy Code

Climate Zone: IECC Climate Zone 5A (cold-humid). Erie's Lake Erie position creates a unique lake-effect climate — milder summers (86°F cooling design — the mildest of Pennsylvania's major cities) but extreme winter lake-effect snowfall. The 5°F heating design reflects cold Pennsylvania winters.

Energy Code & Manual J Requirement: Pennsylvania Energy Code (IECC 2021). ACCA Manual J required for residential HVAC permits in Erie County and city jurisdictions.

Local Electric Utility: FirstEnergy (Pennsylvania Electric / Penelec)

Building Department: City of Erie Department of Inspections

Local Trade Association: ACCA Pennsylvania