ARLINGTON, Va. - At the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) annual conference, Sam Rashkin, national director, Energy Star for Homes, announced that the EPA’s Energy Star for New Homes Program Version 3 will go into effect Jan. 1, 2012, removing any question of whether the program would be delayed until April 2012. The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) said that this announcement means that the ACCA Quality Assured (QA) Contractor Recognition Program also becomes mandatory the same day for HVACR contractors wishing to work on new Energy Star homes.

“One of the most exciting developments with the latest Energy Star for Homes Version 3 specifications is the opportunity to establish quality installed HVAC systems in the housing industry,” said Rashkin. “The EPA looks forward to staying on schedule to start this important process the beginning of next year.”

To participate in the QA Program, contractors must satisfy four requirements:

• Attend an orientation course that provides an overview of the EPA Energy Star New Homes Program, as well as the ACCA QA program;

• Maintain licenses, insurance, and/or bonding as required by the federal, state, and municipal governments in which the business operates;

• Implement written policies, procedures, and practices stating how the contracting business supports achieving quality in the field; and

• Install HVAC systems in Energy Star-intended new homes that meet the requirement of the ACCA 5 QI Standard and comply with program requirements.

Contractors do not have to be members of ACCA to participate in the QA program.

“This program positions contractors to be real leaders in advancing energy efficiency, by supporting professional contractors who are seeking to provide superior work through quality installations,” said Stan Johnson, president of Stan’s Heating & Air Conditioning Inc., Austin, Texas. “Contractors who want to be part of the QA program should get in on the ground floor, so they are prepared when the January 1, 2012, date arrives.”

For more information on the QA program, the orientation course, and to sign up to participate, visit www.acca.org/qa.

Publication date:03/28/2011