ARLINGTON, Va. — The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) announced that it has recognized its 500th Quality Assured (QA) contractor. ACCA launched the QA program in February 2011. Since then the association said there has been a steady flow of contractors applying to the program.

“We are extremely pleased that our QA program has grown so quickly in the first year,” said Paul T. Stalknecht, ACCA president and CEO. “We knew this program would restore value to the HVAC contracting profession and would be a great benefit to home builders participating in the Energy Star for New Homes Version 3 program. We are pleased that contractors see the value in this program, and that it helps them stand out in their markets as leaders.”

Only QA contractors can install HVAC systems in new homes intended for the Energy Star rating that are permitted after Jan. 1, 2012, or homes that are finished on or after July 1, 2012.

The QA program recognizes professional HVAC businesses and assists home builders seeking to identify qualified contractors eligible to bid HVAC installations for Energy Star for New Homes Version 3. To participate in the QA program, contractors must satisfy five requirements:

1. Participate in an orientation course, available online at www.acca.org/qa, that provides an overview of the EPA Energy Star for New Homes program, as well as the ACCA QA program;

2. Submit a signed Participation Agreement (this and other program documents are available as free downloads at www.acca.org/qa);

3. Submit copies of applicable licenses, insurance, and/or bonding for the state, county, city, and/or municipal governments in which the business operates;

4. Complete the online application; and

5. Pay the applicable fees.

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

For more information on the QA Program, contact Wes Davis or Christine Hazelbaker at 703-824-8877 or qaprogram@acca.org. To view QA program information online, visit www.acca.org/qa.

Publication date: 05/07/2012