In the last six months, HVAC manufacturers have introduced a flurry of new products to the market. The reason, of course, is the need for equipment to meet the new 13 SEER mandate, which became law at the end of January. What's interesting to note is that manufacturers are not only introducing 13 SEER units, many have gone far beyond the mandate to produce units that have ratings of 18, 20, and even 23 SEER. Most contend that consumers are interested in the higher-efficiency units, given the spiraling costs of energy, while others state the more efficient units provide a better level of comfort to occupants.
Whatever the reason, consumers have a wide array of new products to choose from, and they're relying on their local contractor to help them decide which system best meets their cooling - and financial - needs.