Although the Department of Energy (DOE) announced its final rule establishing regional standards for air conditioners, heat pumps, and furnaces last October, the fight is not over yet. Through the legal advocacy group Cause of Action, the Heating, Airconditioning and Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) has filed a petition to intervene through the United States Court of Appeals against the DOE. HARDI’s petition to appeal the rule is based on the claim that DOE failed to follow proper procedures in issuing the rules for regional efficiency standards.
According to the new rule, the country will be divided into three regions, and the minimum efficiency standards for residential HVAC appliances will vary depending on the region in which they are installed. The new rules become effective in May 2013 for non-weatherized furnaces, and in January 2015 for weatherized furnaces, central air conditioners, and heat pumps.