Even though the standard has required manufacturers to redesign their lines, develop new products, and reconfigure their factories, most state they are excited about the changes. Indeed, manufacturers are working diligently to reduce costs and differentiate their 13 SEER products from the competition.
Along with the changes, however, come concerns that the new 13-SEER products may be hard to come by in the short term, as manufacturers continue producing 10- to 12-SEER equipment right up to the deadline in order to meet increased demand. It remains to be seen how the actual changeover will go early next year, but manufacturers are working hard to ensure as smooth a transition as possible.