As 2014 ends, Air Conditioning Contractors of America says its members are optimistic about their HVAC market companies.

 For December, the group’s Contractor Comfort Index for HVAC construction sat at 71 on a 100-point scale. That’s a three-point drop from November’s figure, but higher than the year-ago number of 67.

The index represents members' opinions on short-term economic and HVAC sales prospects. A number about 50 indicates most contractors have good feelings.

The next index will be released at the end of this month.