SAN ANTONIO - Friedrich Air Conditioning was recognized for its continuing commitment to environmentally friendly manufacturing processes with the Environmental Excellence Award, San Antonio Water System's (SAWS) top environmental distinction. Recipients had to demonstrate best management, water conservation, and pollution prevention practices as well as innovative educational initiatives.

"Friedrich has a long history of manufacturing high-efficiency, commercial-grade room air conditioners and specialty air conditioning solutions," said Bob Desplinter, vice president, manufacturing. "We are honored to be recognized by SAWS for our environmental contributions because we realize that we have a responsibility to our community to help protect our most valuable natural resource."

The company was chosen for this honor because of recent changes it has made to its paint processing system. Many air conditioning parts and components receive a commercial-grade paint job to help prevent rust and to increase durability. The new paint process Friedrich has implemented is an ecologically more friendly powder coat process that virtually eliminates waste, decreases water treatment requirements, and uses less water than the previous system, according to the company.

Publication date: 11/27/2006