After facing a slow winter where much of the nation saw above-average temperatures and mild weather, contractors are gearing up for a busy summer season. To help them prepare, The NEWS introduces the latest cooling equipment available for the upcoming summer season. The intent is to help contractors prepare for this busy period by doing the research that will help them to distinguish between brands.

Like last year, this year’s Cooling Showcase is split into two parts — commercial and residential. The commercial information will be published in the April 30th issue, while this issue will focus on the residential/light commercial side of the air conditioning industry. The coverage features specific information about each individual product as submitted by the manufacturers.

Included in the 2012 Residential Cooling Showcase (see Chill Out With New Equipment) is the product grid, which includes technical facts, such as unit tonnage, refrigerant type, efficiency rating, and cooling capacity. The photo feature provides more in-depth information on the features of each individual unit and also includes technical support information from the manufacturer.