On Jan. 1, new regional energy conservation standards took effect for split-system and single package central air conditioners sold and installed throughout the U.S. The standards, which are a result of the regional standards settlement agreement finalized last year, divide the country into three regions — North, Southeast, and Southwest — each with different minimum SEER and EER requirements.
Meanwhile, Heating, Air-conditioning, and Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) and other industry stakeholders have been working with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) over the past several months to negotiate a rulemaking governing enforcement of the new regional standards. And, while some are concerned the DOE may overstep its bounds again, others are hopeful the agency will continue to accept industry input and guidance as it develops its final rule.