Aug. 6, 2012: AHRI Requests Extension for Implementing Regional Standards
ARLINGTON, Va. — In a letter to the Department of Energy (DOE), the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) has requested an 18-month extension of the May 1, 2013 effective date for new regional efficiency standards for residential non-weatherized gas furnaces. AHRI said the proposed extension — to Nov. 1, 2014 — would give manufacturers adequate time to prepare for compliance with regional furnace standards and related standards enforcement and product labeling requirements, and ensure that any changes in furnace minimum standards coincide with the start of the 2014-2015 heating season.
AHRI asked that the Department of Energy grant the extension as soon as possible, to prevent manufacturers and distributors from beginning the costly endeavor of repositioning product offerings before the 2012-2013 heating season, which would likely result in stranded inventory.