ARLINGTON, VA — For the national energy bill now in House-Senate conference, the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) reports that its proposed language calling for the Secretary of Energy to develop a consumer education program on the importance of regular HVAC system maintenance has been approved by the congressional conferees.

ACCA pressed for this provision because it would help keep systems operating at peak efficiency to generate energy savings and decrease the drain on the national grid. One change made from the original House language was to remove the dollar amount — $5 million — authorized for this purpose.

“There’s still a long way to go,” noted Kevin W. Holland, vice president, Communications and Membership Services. “Debate may continue throughout the rest of the year, and, given the partisan nature of some of the issues on the table, there may not be a final agreement reached during this Congress.

“But we’re pleased that both sides have agreed that regular maintenance of indoor comfort systems is a necessary part of national energy conservation, and have recognized that consumers need to be better educated on maintenance issues.”

Publication date: 08/19/2002