As the debate over a 12- vs. 13-SEER standard continues, The News sought further clarification from two entities that sit on opposite sides of the fence: Goodman Manufacturing Co., Houston, TX, one of the largest manufacturers of air conditioning equipment, and the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI), which represents the industry's manufacturers.
As reported in the April 23 News, the outgoing Clinton administration initiated a new 13-SEER standard for central air conditioners and heat pumps. The incoming Bush administration put that rule up for review and last month proposed a reduced 12-SEER standard.