NEW ENERGY EFFICIENCY STANDARDS ARE NOW IN EFFECT

As of January 23, 2006 the U. S. Dept. of Energy has enacted more stringent regulations regarding the efficiency of air conditioning and heat pump systems. Standards were raised, now requiring that all newly manufactured units comply with the new SEER-13 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) rating. While existing lower-rated units can remain in use, no new units with lower ratings can be produced.

Air conditioning industry surveys in 2005 show that up to 90% of all homeowners had heard nothing about the new SEER-13 rating while nearly 75% of them had never even heard the term "SEER rating." Proponents in support of this change cite the potential for significant reduction in energy use and reduced strain on electric grids. Opponents point out that upfront costs to the consumer may not be recoverable and that a skilled installation of lower-rated units can produce systems of equal or better comfort and efficiency than an unskilled installation of a SEER-13 unit. Additional negative impact will undoubtedly affect builders and remodelers who typically install SEER-10 units and whose costs may double or triple as a result of the new standard.